How did Ernst Ruska develop the electron microscope?

My development was driven by a practical need to see smaller and smaller structures. I started by observing phenomena related to electron beams and cathode rays. The key breakthrough was realizing that electrons behave as waves and that these waves could be focused. I applied principles from conventional optics, adapting them to electron beams. It was a process of careful design, construction, and rigorous testing of components, particularly the electromagnetic lenses, which needed to be precisely shaped and aligned to minimize aberrations. Each improvement in the instrument's design was aimed at pushing the resolution further, allowing us to 'see' more of the underlying reality.

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