Chinese scientists have developed a new laser technology that allows to obtain images with very high resolution at long distances. This system is capable of recognizing details of a human face even from low-Earth orbit.

Researchers from the Institute of Aerospace Information of the Chinese Academy of Sciences have demonstrated millimeter-level resolution at distances of more than 100 kilometers. The tests were conducted at Qinghai Lake in northwestern China using an advanced synthetic aperture lidar system. During the experiment, the device targeted an array of reflective prisms at a distance of 101.8 km under ideal atmospheric conditions. The system was able to capture details as small as 1.7 mm and measure distances with an accuracy of 15.6 mm, 100 times better than current spy cameras.

To achieve these results, scientists applied several technological innovations, including the division of the laser beam into an array of 16 microlenses, which significantly increased the optical power of the system. A special laser module provides high resolution and improves the detection of horizontal details.

According to the scientists, it is now possible not only to see the satellite, but also to read its serial numbers. The 103 W laser significantly exceeds standard lidar systems and is supported by real-time digital processing

However, there is still a lot of work ahead of scientists - it is necessary to improve the quality of images in all weather conditions and for moving objects