megapixels
/ˈmɛɡəˌpɪksəlz/
Definition
A unit of image resolution equal to one million individual picture elements, or pixels, used here to measure the massive detail captured by the observatory's camera.
Etymology
The term is a portmanteau derived from 'mega-' (from the Greek 'megas', meaning 'great' or 'large') and 'pixel' (a shortening of 'picture element'). It gained prominence in digital photography to describe the increasing count of tiny sensors used to compose digital images.
In the news
In the article, the term describes the extreme resolution of the 3,200-megapixel LSST camera, which allows scientists to create incredibly detailed, high-definition images of the entire southern sky. This massive pixel count is essential for mapping the universe with the precision required to detect subtle celestial changes.
The Rubin Observatory's 10-year movie of the universe is about to 'blow our minds,' chief scientist says
Read the full article ↗Live Science