A group of developers at Microsoft Research and the University of Washington have invented a camera, dubbed the Hypercam, that uses the wonders of hyperspectral imaging to capture sights that the naked eye and regular cameras cannot catch. Incredibly, their smartphone-compatible hyperspectral imaging accessory costs only $50.
This camera captures 17 images at various points of the spectrum, before mashing them together to reveal hidden details.
The Hypercam isn't just something incredibly neat that could make people's Instagrams more revealing than ever in more ways than one, it could actually have a whole range of extremely useful applications. For example, it could be used to look inside a fruit to see if it has gone bad, or could be used to locate valuable deposits of minerals beneath the earth.
Ultra-Revealing Cameras
The Hypercam Can Photograph the Veins Beneath Your Skin
Trend Themes
1. Hyperspectral Imaging - The development of hyperspectral imaging technology presents opportunities for revealing hidden details in various industries.
2. Smartphone-compatible Accessories - The rise of affordable smartphone-compatible accessories like the Hypercam opens up new possibilities for consumer photography and specialized applications.
3. Intelligent Sensors - The use of intelligent sensors, like those found in the Hypercam, is revolutionizing the way we gather information and perceive the world around us.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - Hyperspectral imaging technology can be used in healthcare to detect early signs of diseases and improve diagnostics.
2. Agriculture - Hyperspectral imaging can be utilized in agriculture to assess plant health, identify diseases, and optimize crop management.
3. Mining - The Hypercam's ability to locate valuable mineral deposits has the potential to transform the mining industry by streamlining exploration processes.