NDE & DIAGNOSTICS | REAL-TIME GAMMA DETECTION
From space science to civil nuclear
Born of x-ray astronomy, a novel handheld gamma-optical camera stands at the nexus of medical and industrial imaging. By combining precise, real-time
gamma ray visualisation with video imaging it is poised to redefine both fields. By Mark Rosser, CEO, Serac Imaging Systems
X-RAY ASTRONOMY TELESCOPES ARE designed to capture the faintest signals from distant stars and galaxies. For such deep space imaging to work, ultra-precise detection systems are essential. In addition, because Earth’s atmosphere absorbs most x-rays from space, x-ray telescopes like NASA’s Chandra or the ESA’s Newton XMM must be placed in orbit. The detectors used in these imaging platforms consequently need to be highly compact and lightweight too. While working on this cutting-edge space technology Prof. John Lees of the University of Leicester’s School of Physics and Astronomy and Prof. Alan Perkins, a medical physicist at the University of Nottingham, observed these essential characteristics and saw an opportunity in nuclear medicine. The scientists subsequently began development of the
first prototype hand-held gamma camera. By incorporating an optical image with a perfectly matched field of view, independent of imaging angle or distance, the cameras could fuse gamma detection with a real-time visual image. A high-resolution imaging device capable of detecting gamma rays and localising the source with pinpoint accuracy would allow clinicians to identify the exact location and distribution of gamma sources within the human body.
Following successful bench tests, clinical trials, and publication of peer-reviewed research, patent applications were filed.
The fused optical overlay, mapping gamma images to the visible world in real time, enhanced usability and brought new use cases into play. Recognising the potential impact of a compact, portable gamma camera as an alternative to the traditional, room-sized imaging systems, Serac Imaging Systems then secured an exclusive licence to develop and commercialise the technology.
From prototype to product To bring the research prototype to commercial reality required scalability, manufacturability, and compliance with stringent medical device standards. Serac engaged the TTP design consultancy to support this work. Key developments during the commercialisation process
included: ● Enhanced detector tuning for superior spatial resolution. ● Signal amplification, boosting sensitivity for faster image acquisition.
● A fully integrated design eliminating the need for external electronics.
Above: X-ray telescopes like Chandra served as inspiration for the Seracam Source: Northrop Grumman 28 | April 2025 |
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