During the Exploring the Microcosm workshop at Ashoka University, I got the opportunity to observe the fern rhizome under a Foldscope. It was honestly one of the most fascinating experiences because something that normally looks so ordinary suddenly revealed an entirely different world.
At first, setting up the Foldscope itself was a challenge. Since it is extremely delicate and works differently from a regular microscope, adjusting the focus and positioning the sample properly took patience. Even the slightest movement could blur the image completely. However, once the image became clear, the effort felt completely worth it.
The fern rhizome observation was very interesting because the structure looked very complex. Unlike the onion peel, which appeared simple and uniform, the fern rhizome had different textures and patterns that made me curious about how plants function internally. It reminded me that even the smallest natural structures contain immense detail and beauty that usually go unnoticed.
Overall, this workshop changed the way I look at the microscopic world. It showed me that science is not only about theories and definitions, but also about observation, curiosity, and exploration. Using the Foldscope made me realize how much exists beyond what we can normally see, and it turned a simple classroom activity into an exciting journey into the microcosm.
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