The first 360 degree images of the Earth taken from space have been published

Earlier this year, the company Insta360 sent two cameras into low Earth orbit on a special space mission. The feature of these cameras called Insta360 is that they can capture incredible 360-degree images. So after launch, Insta360 was able to capture incredible, high-resolution images that had never been seen before.

The company is no stranger to such extreme achievements; This year, it sent one of its new models into the stratosphere at an altitude of 26 kilometers with a weather balloon. But space is a completely different type of environment. Because the extreme temperatures of -70 to 50 degrees Celsius that the camera encounters 500 kilometers above the Earth’s surface are no joke.

And that’s not all. Since cosmic rays cannot be stopped outside the atmosphere, the camera must be able to withstand high doses of radiation. It also needs to withstand shocks and vibrations. On the other hand, it is important to remember that there is no one up there to repair or reposition the camera if something goes wrong.

That’s why Insta360 teamed up with Media Storm and satellite company Spacety. Engineers designed the camera to make it suitable for the harsh conditions in space by making changes to the lens, motherboard and case. The seal on the camera and the glue on the plastic were adjusted and thoroughly tested, and gold foil was added as a shield to protect from radiation.

The result is cameras that can withstand low Earth environments and rotate slowly, adjusting the angle and shooting position to capture some amazing shots. It also proves that stars and galaxies are very clearly visible in space.

The satellite to which the camera is connected is expected to operate until 2026, and it is said that it will burn up in the atmosphere when it re-enters the atmosphere.