Hyperspectral Camera

What it does

Waverider is a large format hyperspectral camera that captures spectral data for every pixel in an image. The device uses a fiber optic cable connected to a spectrometer that moves along X and Y axes behind a camera lens. Each pixel records wavelength information across the 225 to 1000 nanometer range, which is then converted to an RGB image using spectral science software.

The builder assembled the system from off-the-shelf and secondhand components: a Sinar 4x5 inch camera, a Scheider-Kreuznach lens, motorized linear stages, a Broadcom spectrometer, and a Raspberry Pi Pico for motion control. Custom 3D-printed brackets and fiber clips connect the components. Software written in MicroPython controls stage movement via stepper drivers, while a Python library handles spectral-to-RGB conversion.

Who it is for

This is a research and hobbyist tool rather than a commercial product. Scientists and engineers working on spectral imaging, material analysis, or computational photography could use it. The project appears positioned for those willing to assemble hardware and debug custom electronics rather than purchase a finished system.

Pricing

The site does not show prices.

How it stands out

Waverider achieves large format hyperspectral imaging at lower cost than commercial alternatives by combining a repurposed large format camera body with affordable motorized stages and a secondhand spectrometer. The builder explicitly acknowledged a simpler linear-scanning approach exists but chose XY raster scanning. The complete build is documented with images of each custom component, parts lists, and source code, making it reproducible.

What a founder should check

Anyone considering a commercial hyperspectral camera product should verify: first, what existing commercial hyperspectral cameras cost and what their scanning speeds and formats are—Waverider achieves single images slowly (0.2 seconds per pixel), which may not compete with faster industrial systems. Second, whether the market actually wants user-assembled DIY systems or only finished products with warranties and support. Third, whether software libraries like colour-science remain freely available or could become a constraint if this were commercialized.