China has developed what is being described as the world’s most powerful spy camera, capable of capturing facial details from distances exceeding 63 miles (100 km), raising significant surveillance concerns.
The camera, developed by China’s Academy of Sciences’ Aerospace Information Research Institute in Beijing, utilizes Synthetic Aperture Lidar (SAL) technology. This advanced remote sensing system sends out pulses of light and records the reflected energy, allowing for high-resolution 2D and 3D imaging, even in low-light and adverse weather conditions.
A recent test conducted across Qinghai Lake in northwest China successfully demonstrated the camera’s ability to capture detailed images from 101.8 km away. Experts believe this technology could soon be deployed on satellites for space-based surveillance, enhancing China’s military and intelligence capabilities.
The development has sparked global security concerns. Robert Morton, a security expert and member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO), called it a “massive security concern”, noting that millimeter-resolution imaging from space represents a new level of surveillance power.
Industry leaders also reacted strongly. Julia Aymonier, head of digital transformation at API, warned on LinkedIn: “Big Brother is watching you!”, while Natallia Catarina, CEO of Beam Wallet, added: “Now only clouds will save us from Chinese spies.”
This breakthrough raises ethical and geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding privacy, surveillance policies, and potential military applications. Experts anticipate that China could soon launch the technology aboard satellites, enabling it to monitor activities on Earth with unprecedented precision.
