Time-Correlated Single Photon Counting (TCSPC) is a highly precise and widely utilized technique in the field of time-resolved spectroscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging analysis [1]. TCSPC operates by detecting individual photons emitted from a sample and precisely measuring the time intervals between photon arrivals and laser pulses [2] – Figure 1.

This technique allows researchers to determine the fluorescence lifetime of fluorophores with exceptional accuracy, providing valuable insights into molecular dynamics, interactions, and environmental changes [3]. By correlating photon arrival times with an electronic signal, TCSPC enables the construction of fluorescence decay curves, which can be further analyzed to extract quantitative information about the sample’s properties [4] – Figure 2.

With its sensitivity, temporal resolution, and versatility, TCSPC has become an indispensable tool in various scientific disciplines, including biophysics, chemistry, and materials science.