January 21, 2008 A simple to use tool for capturing the fine detail of almost any object from coins, plants and rocks to electronic circuit boards, Celestron's new handheld USB digital microscope provides 10x to 40x and 150x magnification and a 1.3mp digital camera for capturing stills and video.

On show at CES 2009, the microscope weighs 4oz (113g), measures 4.25" (108 mm) x 1.25" (32 mm) and includes LED illumination and a metal stand to ensure a steady image.

The new offering is not as powerful than the model we saw last year which had two magnification settings of 20X and 400X, but it will be set at a cheaper price point (at around USD$80), can be dropped to 10X and has slightly more ergonomic design. And as we saw at the show, it can certainly help you appreciate the fine detail of a dollar bill.

PS: We've already spotted the scope for $69.95 at Adorama.

Via: Celestron.