A festive feat of science and precision engineering
As the festive season approaches, our scientists have been blending creativity with cutting-edge technology to produce something delightfully unexpected and impressively small.
A Reindeer Measured in Millimetres
Working in collaboration with the Central Laser Facility at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Tom, one of our Materials Scientists, has crafted a miniature 0.8mm-tall reindeer using advanced nanoscale fabrication techniques. While learning to operate the facility’s specialist target fabrication tools, he successfully “nano-scribed” a fully formed 3D micro-reindeer, a playful demonstration of extraordinary technical capability.
Precision Powered by Two-Photon Polymerisation
At the heart of this achievement is the Nanoscribe 3D printing system, which uses Two-Photon Polymerisation (2PP) to build intricate structures with nano metre level accuracy. This technology enables the creation of complex micro targets used in high-power laser experiments, similar to those carried out at our Aldermaston site to study how materials behave under extreme conditions.
Showcasing the Future of Microfabrication
This festive micro-reindeer is more than a seasonal curiosity. It highlights the remarkable potential of nanoscale manufacturing and reinforces the value of working closely with partners to push the boundaries of high-tech fabrication.
It’s a small creation with a big message: innovation thrives when expertise, collaboration, and a spark of imagination come together.
