Hyperspectral Imaging
Rapid, high-resolution hyperspectral scanning across the visible and infrared spectrum, supporting detailed characterization of geological and other materials.
Learn moreHyperspectral Imaging
College of the North Atlantic's Hyperspectral Scanning Unit combines advanced spectral imaging, applied research, and geoscience expertise to reveal information beyond conventional imaging.
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See beyond the surface
The Hyperspectral Scanning Unit (HSU) at College of the North Atlantic's Office of Applied Research and Innovation provides high-resolution hyperspectral imaging and analytical services for research and industry.
Our capabilities span the visible and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, enabling detailed investigation of minerals, drill core, geological materials, and a growing range of other sample types.
We work with clients and research partners to collect, analyze, visualize, and interpret spectral data—turning complex measurements into information that can support better technical and operational decisions.

Our capabilities
From initial scanning through interpretation and collaborative research, the HSU supports projects throughout the analytical process.
Rapid, high-resolution hyperspectral scanning across the visible and infrared spectrum, supporting detailed characterization of geological and other materials.
Learn moreSpectral data collection, analysis, visualization, and interpretation to investigate mineralogical and physio-chemical variability and support informed decision-making.
Learn moreCollaborative research, feasibility studies, technology development, and custom imaging solutions designed around real industry and research challenges.
Learn moreGrowing mineral and drill-core databases provide access to spectral and mineralogical information for research, education, and industry applications.
Learn moreIdeal location for equipment photography, a scanning video, or a hyperspectral visualization.
Hyperspectral imaging
The HSU operates a multi-camera hyperspectral imaging system covering spectral regions from Visible Near Infrared through Longwave Infrared.
The system supports rapid scanning of geological materials, including drill core. A 1.5-metre drill-core box can be scanned by the five-camera system in under a minute, providing high-resolution spectral information for subsequent analysis and interpretation.
Explore hyperspectral imagingOur process
HSU projects combine advanced data acquisition with analysis and interpretation tailored to the project.
We work with clients and researchers to understand the material, problem, and analytical objectives.
Samples are imaged using the appropriate hyperspectral instruments and spectral ranges.
Spectral data are processed and investigated for meaningful mineralogical, chemical, or material variation.
Results are visualized and interpreted to provide useful information for research and decision-making.
Flexible analysis
Geological materials are a major focus of the HSU, but the technology can be applied to many types of samples. Imaging approaches can be tailored to the material and objectives of the project.
Add photographs showing drill core, hand samples, cuttings, and other materials handled by the HSU.
Applications
Hyperspectral imaging can provide useful information anywhere spectral differences help distinguish materials, composition, or condition.
Mineral identification, material characterization, geological interpretation, and exploration support.
Detailed mineralogical information to support improved understanding and optimization of ore processing.
Spectral approaches for investigating vegetation, water quality, land use, and environmental materials.
Applications including crop-health monitoring, pest detection, and spectral assessment of agricultural materials.
Material characterization, quality-control research, and investigation of material variability and defects.
Flexible imaging and analytical capabilities for emerging applications, feasibility studies, and collaborative R&D.
Applied research
The HSU works with industry, researchers, government, and other organizations on applied research and technology-development projects.
Our team can support feasibility studies, specialized imaging, data analysis and interpretation, technology demonstrations, training, and the exploration of new hyperspectral applications.
Space for a project photograph, partner collaboration, field deployment, or team image.
Explore
Learn about our imaging capabilities, systems, analysis, and service options.
Explore service →Client accessAccess the full datasets and project resources shared with your organization.
Open client portal →DatabaseExplore drill-core data and mineralogical resources produced through HSU projects.
Explore drill core →Work with us
Connect with the HSU team to discuss your samples, research objectives, and how our imaging and analytical capabilities could support your project.