Dec. 22, 2004 — The Nanostructural Analysis Network Organization (NANO), an Australian national research facility, announced yesterday that it has commissioned a Leap microscope at the University of Sydney.

The Leap microscope is made by Imago Scientific Instruments Corp. of Madison, Wis. Simon Ringer, director of the electron microscope unit at the University, said the group is already using the device to investigate a variety of light alloys, including magnesium and aluminum. The group plans to explore a range of other materials.

NANO is one of 15 Australian Major National Research facilities and is a joint venture between the Universities of Sydney, Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia and Melbourne. Imago Scientific is an industry partner.