The French National Museum of Natural History (MNHN), the Fondation Simone et Cino del Duca - Institut de France, the Île-de-France Regional Council, and the CNRS, French National Scientific Research Centre have joined together to launch a novel imaging device, the X-Ray Tomography Scientific Access Platform (AXT-RX).
This high-performance scanner has been installed in the CNRS, located at the Jardin des Plantes site and MNHN research laboratories, and will enable observation of fossils embedded in their rocks, three-dimensional reconstructions of natural science samples, the carrying out of virtual dissections, etc. The scanner will assist in preserving and developing the Museum's collections and in enhancing quality of research.
The primary goal of AST-RX is to digitalize natural science specimens with nanotomography and microtomography. The device finds application in research like sampling studies at the required magnification level, 3D reconstructions ensuring easy control, non-invasive approach to internal anatomy, virtual dissections, etc.
The device is beneficial, as it provides high-resolution in observing all the structures of the samples, assisting in the research of internal structures that were not possibble earlier.
This novel device will assist in developing the research themes depending on the Museum's collections. Scientifically significant historic specimens in the collection will definitely provide useful information while reviewing them with the novel imaging techniques.
The technical abilities and broad range of its applications of this imaging device ensures it to be a high performing one in the field of natural sciences.