Stereo images by
Sir Dr Brian May

Welcome to space stereoscopic photography!

On March 12, 2025, Hera performed a flyby of Mars and the opportunity was used to take images of the red planet as well as of its most distant moon Deimos with its three imagers working in different wavelengths from the visible to the thermal infrared, allowing us to access different kinds of information: AFC (Asteroid Framing Camera), Hyperscout-H (hyperspectral imager), and TIRI (Thermal InfraRed Imager). In particular, this is the first time that Deimos is imaged on its side opposite to Mars with this phase angle and in those different wavelengths. The data are complimentary to those obtained by the Hope mission of the United Arab Emirates that also took images of Deimos on this side at different angles. Sir Dr. Brian May attended the operations of Hera during the flyby at ESOC in Darmstadt and participated to the data analysis by producing outstanding stereoscopic pairs of images of Deimos, allowing us to access new information f the martian moon in three dimensions. In particular, they reveal surface feature characteristics that are unseen when observing in a 2D image. In the following, the concept is explained and stereoscopic pairs produced by Sir Dr. Brian May during the flyby are exposed. Enjoy!

What is Stereoscopic Photography?

Stereoscopic photography, also known as 3D photography, is a technique that captures two slightly offset photographs of a scene, simulating human binocular vision. When these images are viewed simultaneously, they create a single image with depth, giving a vivid sense of three-dimensionality. This method enhances the perception of various elements such as distance and texture, encouraging immersive engagement with the subject matter.

Brian May's Contribution to Stereoscopic Photography in Space

Brian May, renowned guitarist of Queen and a distinguished astrophysicist, has made remarkable contributions to stereoscopic photography, especially in the realm of space exploration. Beyond his musical accolades, Dr May has a steadfast passion for scientific imagery, utilising stereoscopy to reveal extraordinary celestial landscapes.

His work in the stereoscopic representation of space phenomena provides profound insights into the depth and scale of celestial objects. By transforming flat images captured by spacecraft into vivid three-dimensional ones, Dr May has fostered a unique perspective on observing the cosmos. This pioneering approach allows scientists and enthusiasts alike to experience outer space more fully, bridging the gap between scientific exploration and visual experience.

Through his involvement in the Hera mission, Dr May's expertise in stereoscopy enriches our understanding of asteroid environments, including a martian moon rendering intricate details of these distant terrains in ways previously unimagined. His dedication continues to inspire advancements in imaging technologies and ignites curiosity among a vast audience.

Useful Links

ESA (European Space Agency)

OCA (Observatoire de la Côte d'Azur)

DART Mission (Double Asteroid Redirect Test)

NEO-MAPP (Near Earth Object Modelling & Payloads for Protection)

Asteroid Day (by the Asteroid Foundation)