The challenge
Tracking the quality of Australian water bodies
Most cameras, including many on satellites, see in three broad colours – red, green, and blue. This provides a similar representation to that of the human eye and is suitable for most conventional applications. Hyperspectral imagers, however, capture a wider range of wavelengths, including those beyond the visible spectrum. This higher spectral resolution allows scientists to determine the specific composition of a scene with greater accuracy.
With this additional information, we can differentiate between plant species that may appear simply 'green' to traditional cameras. Hyperspectral imagers enable scientists to distinguish between harmful algal blooms and other aquatic species that are harmless to humans and ecosystems.
Typically, hyperspectral image sensors are owned and operated by international agencies designed for Europe and the Americas, which is not always well suited for Australia.
Our response
Lightweight, affordable space optics designed and built in Australia
In partnership with the University of Adelaide, our Space Optics team has developed sensors to achieve this goal. Our first instrument, CyanoSense-1, launched in 2023, was developed in just 18 months and is the first Australian-designed and manufactured hyperspectral imager to operate in space.
The team is now developing next-generation designs for other applications as well as CyanoSense-2, building on lessons learnt from the previous mission and enhancing the capabilities to detect and monitor algal blooms from low-Earth orbit. The launch of CyanoSense-2 is planned for 2025.