Norsk Elektro Optikk participates in new EDA project: Hyper-IP
Norsk Elektro Optikk AS (NEO), a leading payload provider of high-performance hyperspectral imaging systems, has signed a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) to complete the design and manufacturing of HyperNOR S-1280, the first spaceborne instrument in the HySpex HyperNOR family. The next-generation in-orbit hyperspectral demonstrator is designed to unlock the full potential of extended Short-Wave Infrared (eSWIR, 950–2500 nm) imaging from space.
The HyperNOR S -1280 instrument is being realised under ESAs General Support Technology Programme (GSTP), with support from the Norwegian Space Agency (NOSA). The contract enables a complete payload development pathway—from Qualification Model (QM) to Flight Model (FM), culminating in launch as an In-Orbit Demonstrator (IOD) in the first half of 2028. By combining qualification, flight readiness, and in-orbit validation within a single framework, GSTP accelerates the transition of HySpex’s proven hyperspectral sensor technology from airborne and laboratory domains into space, while reducing risk and establishing a robust foundation for future operational missions and constellations.
HyperNOR S-1280 represents a significant advancement in hyperspectral Earth observation. As an ESA-supported GSTP/IOD mission, it is designed to close the commercial eSWIR gap in space-based imaging, enabling a new generation of high-impact applications for downstream providers.
“The HyperNOR S-1280 represents a critical step forward in bringing high-quality, calibration-grade hyperspectral data into space,” says Lars O. Lierstuen, Head of Space & Business Development at NEO. “By combining high spatial resolution with robust eSWIR coverage, we are enabling continuity from lab to orbit and paving the way for next-generation hyperspectral constellations.”
The European Defence Agency (EDA) Hyper-IP project was officially kicked off in January 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in the development of advanced space-technology for military applications.
This initiative is part of a European collaborative effort to address technological gaps in defense-related hyperspectral imaging. The project's primary goal is to design and develop a cutting-edge system featuring a hyperspectral camera paired with innovative signal processing. The system shall be designed for satellite deployment and will be demonstrated on an airborne platform during the project's course, showcasing its flexibility and potential in diverse applications.
Breaking new ground in hyperspectral imaging
As a key partner, Norsk Elektro Optikk (NEO) is responsible for designing and constructing the hyperspectral camera for the project. At HySpex, all our cameras use a pushbroom system — we believe this is the go-to architecture for creating high-quality hyperspectral systems. In this project, we're exploring a novel hyperspectral technique to evaluate the quality we can achieve in a non-pushbroom system.
“Exploration of new techniques and technology is important to continue providing leading high-end products to our customers. Participation in the Hyper-IP project is a very good opportunity for NEO to continue this effort.” says Erlend Leirset, Project Manager at NEO.
A collaborative European effort
Hyper-IP is a European Defense Agency project led by Flysight Srl and includes leading European partners:
- Royal Military Academy (RMA) – Specializing in hyperspectral data analysis for defense.
- National Institute of Optics of the National Research Council (INO) – Optical research expertise.
- IMEC – Advanced imaging sensor technology.
- Leonardo S.p.A – Aerospace and defense solutions.
- Norsk Elektro Optikk AS (NEO) – Hyperspectral camera development.
“Collaboration across leading European research and industry partners is essential to drive innovation in hyperspectral imaging. We at NEO are proud to contribute our expertise in hyperspectral technology to the Hyper-IP project, working alongside our partners to explore new frontiers.” Says Lars. O Lierstuen, Head of Space and Business Development at NEO.
Project timeline and future prospects
The design phase for the Hyper-IP camera will commence in Q2 2025, with completion expected in Q2 2026. The result will be a sophisticated, high-performance system that brings new capabilities to military and defense applications.
Stay tuned as the Hyper-IP project progresses—its development represents a bold new direction and is set to play a crucial role in advancing military-grade hyperspectral imaging.
About Norsk Elektro Optikk AS
Founded in 1985, NEO specializes in hyperspectral imaging solutions, serving industries such as defense, environmental science, and Earth observation. The company has a global presence and has delivered hundreds of advanced imaging systems worldwide.
About HySpex by NEO
With offices in Oslo (Norway), Clinton (US), and Berlin (Germany), HySpex is established as an industry-leading brand for both airborne and ground-based hyperspectral imaging. HySpex sensors are renowned for their stability, flexibility, and superior data quality. To learn more about HySpex, visit us online at https://www.hyspex.com/, or join us on LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook.
