Thermo Scientific Glacios 2 Cryo-Transmission Electron Microscope

Overview

The Thermo Scientific Glacios 2 Cryo-Transmission Electron Microscope (Cryo-TEM) is an engineered platform for high-throughput, near-atomic resolution structural biology. Operating at a nominal accelerating voltage of 200 kV, it leverages advanced electron optics, cryogenic sample handling, and direct electron detection to support single-particle analysis (SPA), cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), and microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED). Its design adheres to the fundamental principles of high-coherence TEM imaging under cryogenic conditions: electrons interact with vitrified biological specimens in vacuum while minimizing beam-induced motion and ice contamination. The Glacios 2 integrates hardware stability—such as enhanced mechanical damping, reduced thermal drift, and optimized column alignment—with a purpose-built cryo-stage and automated specimen transfer system to ensure reproducible data collection across extended acquisition sessions.

Key Features

• Near-atomic resolution capability: Information limit of 2.1 Å under optimal cryo-conditions, validated using standard protein test samples (e.g., apoferritin)
• Falcon 4i direct electron detector: Capable of up to 320 frames per second (fps) with zero-loss imaging mode and integrated dose fractionation
• Enhanced environmental stability: <2% transmission loss due to ice growth over 24 hours—achieved through improved cryo-shielding, low-vibration cryo-stage, and optimized vacuum architecture
• Selectris X energy filter (optional): Enables energy-filtered imaging with slit widths <10 eV, improving contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and enabling high-fidelity reconstruction from lower-dose datasets
• Intelligent EPU software suite: Includes automated alignment routines, real-time quality monitoring, AI-assisted decision points, and embedded CryoSPARC Live integration for on-the-fly processing feedback
• Modular workflow connectivity: Native compatibility with Thermo Scientific Krios, Tundra, Talos Arctica, Aquilos 2, and Arctis FIB platforms via Athena software infrastructure and standardized cryo-transfer protocols
• Compact footprint: Optimized mechanical layout reduces floor space requirements compared to other 200 kV cryo-TEM systems with automated loading, facilitating installation in constrained laboratory environments

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Glacios 2 supports standard 3 mm TEM grids (copper, gold, or nickel) with holey carbon or ultrathin carbon films, compatible with conventional plunge-freezing devices (e.g., Vitrobot, CP3) and high-pressure freezing workflows. Grids are loaded via a fully enclosed, nitrogen-cooled autoloader that maintains specimen temperature below −180 °C throughout transfer. The system complies with ISO 14644-1 Class 5 cleanroom requirements for internal column environment and meets GLP/GMP-aligned operational traceability standards when paired with EPU Quality Monitoring and Athena audit-log functionality. Data integrity conforms to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when configured with electronic signature and audit trail modules.

Software & Data Management

EPU software provides end-to-end control—from grid screening and auto-focus to automated data collection and real-time assessment. Its open API allows integration with third-party processing pipelines (e.g., RELION, cisTEM, Scipion) and institutional LIMS systems. The optional EPU Multi-Grid module enables unattended acquisition across up to 12 grids without manual intervention. All raw image stacks, metadata (including dose, defocus, tilt series parameters), and intermediate reconstructions are stored in FAIR-compliant HDF5 format, indexed and retrievable via Athena’s centralized data management layer. Version-controlled software updates follow IEC 62304 medical device software lifecycle standards where applicable.

Applications

• Single-particle analysis of membrane proteins, viral capsids, and large macromolecular complexes
• Cryo-electron tomography of cellular sections, organelles, and intact bacterial cells
• MicroED for small-molecule and peptide crystal structure determination
• Time-resolved cryo-EM studies using rapid grid transfer and synchronized beam blanking
• Method development and training platform for core facility users with varying TEM expertise levels

FAQ

What is the minimum required infrastructure for Glacios 2 installation?

The system requires stable 200 kV high-voltage supply, helium cooling circuit (for cold trap and cryo-stage), vibration-isolated foundation (≥ 12 Hz natural frequency), and electromagnetic shielding compliant with IEC 61000-4-8. Site planning documentation is provided prior to delivery.
Does Glacios 2 support tilt-series acquisition for cryo-ET?

Yes—it supports ±60° tilt range with automated eucentric height correction and dose-symmetric acquisition schemes via EPU Tomography module.
Can Falcon 4i data be processed directly in RELION or cryoSPARC?

Yes—Falcon 4i outputs standard TIFF or MRC stacks with embedded metadata; both RELION 4.x and cryoSPARC v4+ natively ingest these formats with full dose-weighting and CTF estimation support.
Is remote operation supported?

Fully supported via secure TLS-encrypted web interface and optional EPU Remote Access license, enabling grid screening, data collection, and basic troubleshooting from off-site locations.
What service and support options are available?

Thermo Scientific offers Platinum Care contracts including 24/7 remote diagnostics, annual preventive maintenance, application scientist support, and priority access to software updates and training workshops.