Student’s Space Experiment Captures Unseen Images with Cosmic Radiation DATELINE: Bournemouth, United Kingdom – May 24, 2026 A photography student at Arts University Bournemouth has embarked on a groundbreaking project that has pushed the boundaries of traditional photography. Tom Liggett, a third-year BA (Hons) Photography student, has successfully captured images through cosmic radiation by sending a negative film to the edge of space using a helium balloon.
The experiment, named HELIOS, was conducted in April 2026 and is believed to be a world first in using cosmic rays to create images on photographic film.
The balloon, which reached altitudes over 121,000 feet, was equipped with a sealed bag containing the blank negative film. Once the balloon exploded, the bag was sent back to Earth, where Liggett developed the film.
According to reports, the film was exposed to cosmic radiation at high altitudes, which created remarkable patterns and images.
Liggett’s project represents an artistic and scientific exploration of cosmic radiation, a subject that has been a focus of scientific study for decades.
The BBC highlighted the technical aspects of the project, emphasizing the significance of the world — first technique. Officials commented on the matter. “.
It was a really wild question.
The chances of this not working is very high, because as far as I know, no one’s ever achieved it before. “PetaPixel focused on the artistic aspect of the project, emphasizing the beauty and uniqueness of the resulting images. “.
The yellow bloom at the top, however, was caused by a tree that pierced the bag during the descent. “
The HELIOS project was conducted in collaboration with a US — based company that sends objects into space using helium balloons. Liggett was able to bring the remains of one of the balloons used to carry his film into space back to the dark room at Arts University Bournemouth.
The effects of cosmic radiation on materials, including photographic film, have been a subject of scientific study. While it can be damaging to electronic devices, cosmic radiation also has the potential to affect physical materials. This project represents an innovative approach to harnessing this phenomenon for artistic purposes.
The experiment has sparked interest among photography enthusiasts and scientists alike. It has opened up new possibilities for the use of cosmic radiation in photography, potentially leading to new techniques and methods. Liggett’s project is a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in the field of photography.
By pushing the boundaries of traditional photography, he has created a unique and groundbreaking body of work that has captured the imagination of many.
As the world continues to explore the vastness of space, projects like HELIOS are likely to become more common, leading to new discoveries and advancements in various fields, including art and science.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Goolge News Space
