The Geology Department operates an ISI-SIIA Scanning Electron Microscope for use in instances in which fossil and mineral specimens are being examined in the range of 1000X to 15,000X, which is a range most often used by geologists.  The large specimen chamber can handle specimens of 10 cm or more in size.  This instrument has recently been upgraded to use digital format image capturing.  The machine is used for classes in Paleontology and Micropaleontology and for research projects with students such as those involving fossil oribatid mites, or surface textures of sand grains.  Projects requiring additional analyses such as EDAX, or greater magnification, are conducted on instruments shared with the Biology Department.