Diatom paleontologist Masao Iwai (Kochi University, Japan) prepares to make smear slides of sediment from the core catcher. The paleontologists examine these slides under a microscope to identify the fossils found in the sediment. Masao has his microscope configured to use an illumination method called Differential Interference Contrast. This type of light helps Masao see the fine delicate features of diatoms through the microscope. (Credit: Elizabeth Griffith & IODP) [Photo ID: exp355_101]