The rise of computational images: The role of star-targeting spectroscopy

This article examines the pivotal role of Angelo Secchi’s stellar spec-troscopy in anticipating computational imaging, underscoring itshistorical significance and impact on contemporary visualisationtechniques. By analysing the shift from visual to invisual cultures,the study illustrates how 19th century spectroscopic practices laid es-sential foundations for modern datafication and image analysis. Thediscussion addresses methodological innovations, including Secchi’sspectral taxonomy, pattern recognition, and the establishment of acomprehensive spectroscopic data archive based on remote sensing,emphasising spectroscopy’s transition from qualitative representa-tion to invisual, data-centric imaging.