EO·Atlas
HySpex MSC (Methane Satellite Camera)
Compiled from public sources on 2026-06-01. Not independently verified by HySpex.
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HySpex MSC is a compact push-broom SWIR hyperspectral imager developed by Norsk Elektro Optikk (NEO/HySpex) for methane detection from microsatellites, co-funded under ESA's InCubed programme. Spectral range 1340-2500 nm at less than 2.5 nm spectral sampling, 60 m GSD. Builds on the SWIR-640 airborne platform heritage with improved cooling for the space environment. Target customers are EO satellite service providers; multiple flight models proposed but no launch date published as of 2026-06-01.
HySpex MSC (Methane Satellite Camera) is a compact push-broom SWIR hyperspectral imager developed by Norsk Elektro Optikk (NEO/HySpex) for methane detection from microsatellites. [1] The instrument is co-funded under ESA's InCubed programme, with the development contract recorded in the ESA Activities Portal. [2]
The MSC covers a spectral range of 1340-2500 nm with spectral sampling below 2.5 nm and a ground sample distance of 60 m. [1] The band count is not stated in published documentation; a lower-bound estimate can be derived from the spectral range and sampling interval, but the actual figure depends on detector configuration details that have not been released. Swath width has not been published. [1]
HySpex's existing instrument portfolio is otherwise airborne and laboratory-grade; NEO adapted the SWIR-640 airborne platform heritage with improved thermal management for the space environment. [3] The MSC is designed to integrate into COTS microsatellite buses rather than a named host spacecraft. [1] Target customers are EO satellite service providers. [4]
As of mid-2026, the MSC is in development. Commercial flight model agreements have been proposed but no operator client, host spacecraft, or launch date has been published. [4]
Sensing methods
| Method | Evidence class | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SWIR absorption spectroscopy (point source) | Capable | Methane point-source detection; primary stated application [1] |
| SWIR absorption spectroscopy (regional flux) | Capable, pending review | Regional flux mapping; capability stated but not yet independently reviewed [1] |
- [1]HySpex MSC - ESA InCubed portfolioagency doc2026-06-01
- [2]HySpex MSC - ESA Activities Portal, contract 4000146355agency doc2026-06-01
- [3]HySpex secures hyperspectral camera contract with ESA, optics.org Feb 2025third party2026-06-01
- [4]HySpex camera for microsatellites, NEO newsoperator press2026-06-01