What is this? Noobs first day!

[Christopher7789]

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Just got my first microscope today, looking to learn. I found this in a strange place! Wondering what it is?

[Plasmid]

Hello and welcome, its hard to tell but if it was moving really fast could be a nematode, otherwise could be a the hypha or thalus from a fungus. Most likely a synthetic or organic fiber from clothing if it was found on your body.. What magnification was being used?

[Christopher7789]

Hello and welcome, its hard to tell but if it was moving really fast could be a nematode, otherwise could be a the hypha or thalus from a fungus... What magnification was being used?

Still learning, actually returning this microscope to look for something better, having some major issues. It was 400X and not moving at all. Found on the mouthpiece of a vape pen!

[Plasmid]

At 400x its too big to be a bacteria ( cyanobacteria being the exception but they are green and like water) and most protozoa are usually ciliated unless its a fungus... That however does not look organic so I wouldn't worry about it. Whats wrong with your microscope?

[Plasmid]

I think I found a possible culprit , I take it at some point or another during the day the user of the vape uses a face mask like the one below or similar. They are made of a synthetic material.

from Wikipedia
'The design of the surgical masks depends on the mode; usually, the masks are three-ply (three layers). This three-ply material is made up of a melt-blown polymer, most commonly polypropylene, placed between non-woven fabric.

[MichaelG.]

I think I found a possible culprit , I take it at some point or another during the day the user of the vape uses a face mask like the one below or similar. They are made of a synthetic material.

from Wikipedia
'The design of the surgical masks depends on the mode; usually, the masks are three-ply (three layers). This three-ply material is made up of a melt-blown polymer, most commonly polypropylene, placed between non-woven fabric.

The second image in that group is interesting ... and probably supports your assumption nicely.

MichaelG.

[Charles]

To me, it's obviously a fiber.

[Christopher7789]

I think I found a possible culprit , I take it at some point or another during the day the user of the vape uses a face mask like the one below or similar. They are made of a synthetic material.

Very good call! The user has used a face mask with it!

[Christopher7789]

Whats wrong with your microscope?

It's a celestron CB2000C. Brand new when using the focusing knob it reels back and lowers the deck on its own. Really annoying to have to hold the focus. It's probably fixable but shouldn't happen with a brand new scope.

Also the 40x and 100x objectives seem really poor. Even with immersive oil for the 100x. Basically was only good for its 4x and 10x objectives.

I think I'll look into these forums and purchasing a better microscope. Maybe used. Just hard to find one here in PEI Canada.

[Plasmid]

I have not own or used that model, but you are correct, if its brand new contact the seller. I can say from personal experience that you do get a lot more bang for your buck with used platforms at $100 to $120, you do take a gamble as they may need to be cleaned and or some parts might be damaged, however I found repairing/restoring them to be an added bonus, for example the Microstar IV I purchased its an excellent platform but it came with a broken focus cam and a cloudy 10x objective,luckily all it took to repair was some jb weld and a $30 replacement objective. There are a lot of members here with a lot of experience and knowledge on used microscopes and what to avoid. Best of luck.
Plasmid.

[Christopher7789]

I have not own or used that model, but you are correct, if its brand new contact the seller. I can say from personal experience that you do get a lot more bang for your buck with used platforms at $100 to $120, you do take a gamble as they may need to be cleaned and or some parts might be damaged, however I found repairing/restoring them to be an added bonus, for example the Microstar IV I purchased its an excellent platform but it came with a broken focus cam and a cloudy 10x objective,luckily all it took to repair was some jb weld and a $30 replacement objective. There are a lot of members here with a lot of experience and knowledge on used microscopes and what to avoid. Best of luck.
Plasmid.

I appreciate the advice! I'm looking for some now and I don't mind the idea of fixing anything. So far all I've found is a lightly used labomed lx400 for 550$cad. Bit out of my price range though.

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[wporter]

Forum member Apochronaut lives in Canada and may be able to assist you with finding a higher-grade used microscope for a good price.

[Christopher7789]

Forum member Apochronaut lives in Canada and may be able to assist you with finding a higher-grade used microscope for a good price.

Thanks! I may hit them with a message if I don't have any luck locally/on ebay.

[Challenger007]

Forum member Apochronaut lives in Canada and may be able to assist you with finding a higher-grade used microscope for a good price.

Thanks! I may hit them with a message if I don't have any luck locally/on ebay.

I found mine on e-bey, like a good quality. Used but in excellent condition. It turned out much cheaper than taking a new one.