This device projected light through samples from crystal growth experiments on the Space Shuttle. A small growth cell fit into the round opening in the light table. The light enabled close examination of crystals under a microscope, which astronauts set up in an enclosed glovebox. By examining samples, researchers learned which conditions, solutions, and proteins were best for promoting a particular protein's crystal growth. This knowledge is important for medical, drug, and agricultural research. A group of researchers actively involved in experiments for Shuttle flights gave this item and a large set of protein crystal growth equipment to the Museum.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.