[[ File:Cropped Used WG Loss LengthwiseDSC 0169.JPG |thumb|The effect of many surface imperfections becomes obvious when looking at a length of illuminated light guide. (Previously processed light guide. MFR: Saint Gobain BCF-98)]]
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I took the segments of wave guide that I had examined under microscope and exposed them to a green laser pointer with very little ambient light. The laser illuminated the wave guide and revealed the effects of surface damage. Areas with fissures, dust, or residue sparkled under the green light. This indicates significant light loss. Understanding light loss is key to the success of the tagger microscope.
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[[ File:Cropped Used WG Loss LengthwiseDSC 0169.JPG |thumb|center|The effect of many surface imperfections becomes obvious when looking at a length of illuminated light guide. (Previously processed light guide. MFR: Saint Gobain BCF-98)]]