Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31580: NanoRacks-ISS-HEIST: Space-Based Sensors for Smarter Earth Observations

The Earth is changing rapidly, and one of our best tools for monitoring these changes is satellite observation. But how do we improve the clarity and utility of what satellites can see? Enter NanoRacks-ISS-HEIST, a high-impact experiment aboard the International Space Station (ISS) that showcases the next generation of space-based sensing technologies.

Short for Hyperspectral Earth Imaging System Trial, ISS-HEIST is a demonstration experiment run by Orbital Sidekick, a company dedicated to precision Earth monitoring. Their goal? Use hyperspectral imaging from space to detect and monitor environmental and industrial changes on Earth.

So what is hyperspectral imaging? Unlike regular cameras that capture visible light, hyperspectral sensors can detect a vast range of electromagnetic wavelengths—hundreds of bands instead of just three (red, green, blue). This lets them identify materials based on their unique spectral fingerprints. Whether it’s detecting oil spills, mapping crop health, or monitoring air quality, hyperspectral imaging is a game-changer.

The ISS-HEIST experiment involved deploying a small sensor package aboard the ISS, where it scanned the Earth’s surface from low Earth orbit. These sensors provided detailed data that researchers analyzed to evaluate how well the system worked in space conditions.

Why test on the ISS? Because it offers the ideal environment for early validation. It's close enough to Earth for detailed imaging and provides a stable platform for hardware trials. This helps determine whether a technology is ready for standalone satellite missions.

Data from ISS-HEIST informs not just hardware improvements, but also software algorithms used to interpret hyperspectral imagery. The insights gained from this mission are expected to shape future deployments of Orbital Sidekick’s sensor suite aboard dedicated satellites.

NanoRacks-ISS-HEIST also underscores how commercial players can use the ISS to test technologies quickly and affordably. This opens new avenues for Earth observation startups and public-sector agencies looking to improve resource monitoring, disaster response, and environmental protection.

Join the Agnirva Space Internship Program to explore how space-based imaging technologies are transforming our understanding of Earth—and how you can get involved in designing the future of remote sensing.

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in astronomy, cosmology, space technology, and climate science through the Agnirva Space Internship Program. Join, complete virtual projects, and earn a digital certificate to showcase your space fluency in interviews, resumes, and beyond.