Space imaging: The universe in high-resolution

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• November 9, 2022

Insight summary

Space and satellite imaging provides a snapshot of the mysterious cosmos that surrounds Earth. Aside from helping scientists see how the planet has changed over centuries, space imaging can provide crucial information about outer space. Other potential applications of this technology include new-generation X-ray sensors and enhanced digital twins.

Space imaging context

Space imaging was first envisioned in the 1940s when astronomers thought of having a telescope outside the Earth’s atmosphere to observe the universe around it. It wasn’t until 1990 that the famous Hubble Telescope was launched. One of the telescope’s landmarks captured was the Hubble Deep Field in 1995, which focused on a remote patch of space that revealed the hundreds of galaxies and stars that that sliver of sky contained.

Since then, scientists have collected glimpses of the universe’s evolution as far as 13.4 billion years. However, Hubble’s outdated technology has become a hindrance over the years. The US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) knew it was time to replace it with a more robust model.

As space explorations continue to evolve, and both state- and commercial-funded missions increase, space imaging has become more crucial than ever. In December 2021, NASA launched Hubble’s successor, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The telescope is named after the agency’s administrator responsible for the success of the Apollo missions. The James Webb Space Telescope is an infrared telescope equipped with cutting-edge sensors to capture signals from some of the previously unknown reaches of space. In July 2022, the JWST shared its first images presenting the farthest point in space humanity has ever seen. Since then, NASA has consistently posted the telescope’s stunning photos, including the Tarantula and Carina Nebula.

Disruptive impact

The James Webb Space Telescope was made possible by advancements in sensor technology. The telescope uses three primary components: the Optical Telescope Element, the Integrated Science Instruction Module, and the Spacecraft Element. The Optical Telescope Element contains the foldable hexagonal mirror, which maximizes the amount of light collected, enhancing the telescope’s sensitivity and results. Scientists developed the foldable mirror to solve the problem of fitting the telescope’s enormous structure into a space transport system.

Meanwhile, the Integrated Science Instrument Module consists of several necessary devices, such as a near-infrared camera and spectrograph. These instruments are designed to receive and interpret signals from distant objects in space, including galaxies and star systems. Finally, to ensure that JWST can operate in the harsh conditions of outer space, NASA engineers designed the Spacecraft Element comprising the sun-shielding system and additional support functions, such as power storage, communications, data handling, and propulsion. 

Space imaging is not just valuable for understanding the solar systems and other potentially habitable planets that might exist, but researchers can also use imaging technology in medicine. Image sensor manufacturer Caeleste has worked with the Europe Space Agency’s (ESA) Space Solutions and Business Applications to develop image sensors for space missions. Caeleste can transfer space imaging technology to create new-generation X-ray sensors that can produce 3D reconstructions for dental imaging (computed tomography).

The company is working on transferring long wavelength infrared imaging to brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), which allows machines to connect to brainwaves directly. As of 2022, BCIs are studied to enable people with disabilities or persons with neurological conditions to communicate with devices.

Implications of space imaging

Wider implications of advancements in space imaging may include: 

• More commercial satellites equipped with sophisticated cameras being launched to capture images for space tourism. However, some countries might express concerns that these enhanced satellites might be used for espionage.


• More startups transferring space imaging technology to medical imaging centers, including radiology, histopathology, and dermatology.


• Detailed space images being utilized to create digital twins of the solar system and the Sun for more accurate space research. 


• Space imaging technologies being used to monitor climate change’s effects on Earth, particularly the development of severe storms and droughts.


• Continued improvements in future versions of the JWST, including interconnected sensors and cameras, automation features, and sturdier materials.


• Enhanced space imaging enabling more precise agricultural planning, leading to increased crop yields and food security.


• Space imaging advancements facilitating the development of targeted emergency response strategies, improving disaster management efficiency.


• Improved space imaging contributing to more accurate weather forecasting, resulting in better preparation and reduced impact of natural disasters.

Questions to consider

• What are the other benefits of more accurately capturing images of outer space?


• How might better space imaging help boost the space tourism sector?