Each being, whether living or mineral, absorbs and then reflects part of the light: this is its spectral signature. With the naked eye, we perceive this reflected energy through three primary colors: red, green and blue (RGB). To access a larger part of the spectrum, including ultraviolet and infrared, it’s necessary to use hyper-spectral cameras.

How does hyperspectral imaging work?

Hyperspectral imaging (or spectro-imaging) is a technology for acquiring the light intensity emitted by an object in a hundred or so different wavelength spectral bands, from the visible spectrum to the infrared (IR) range. On each pixel of the image, an entire spectrum is measured.

This technology allows to provide the specific spectral signature of the studied object. These samples form a “hyperspectral data cube” with two spatial dimensions and one spectral dimension, consisting of an assembly of monochromatic images. This cube is an extremely rich source of information since it can provide up to several million spectra.

The quantity and complexity of the data collected are quickly more important than in classical spectroscopy. They are then analyzed using image processing software.

A technology with multiple fields of application

Hyperspectral imaging can be used in a wide range of applications such as : 

• Agriculture and environment via measurements of ecosystem water stress, pollution or air and water management
• Astrophysics: Characterization of stars and exoplanets
• Cultural: Analysis of works of art in order to restore them
• Industry : Quality control, identification of foreign materials, mineral sorting, rock analysis.
• Sorting of household waste.

Development of satellite constellations by Absolut Sensing

Expert in satellite data processing, atmospheric composition model and climate change, Absolut Sensing supports government agencies and companies in their needs for greenhouse gas (GHG) measurement, prediction of emissions on an industrial site scale, and definition of their climate strategy.

Miniaturized cryogenic hyperspectral instruments developed and integrated by Absolut System on satellite platforms are then operated by Absolut Sensing to provide environmental intelligence services ranging from methane concentration data to GHG emission reduction action plans.

In particular, the GESat constellation satellites for methane detection will use integrated SWIR sensors, using Absolut System’s ultra-innovative CRYASSY cryogenic system, integrated on micro-satellite platforms weighing less than 100kg, to enable measurement of methane absorption lines over several spectral ranges between 1.6μm – 1.7μm and 2.3μm.