Atmospheric autorotating imaging device

This invention relates to a scanning imaging device for deployment in either terrestrial or extraterrestrial atmospheres. An object of the present invention is to provide an extremely simple device that, upon deployment in an atmospheric environment, automatically rotates without the use of a propulsion system. An image detector appropriately disposed therein scans a panoramic view with each rotation of the device. Data gathered by the image detector may be transmitted to a remote receiver. The present invention may be particularly useful in the exploration of, for example, the Martian surface. The novelty of the present invention resides in the ability of the device to scan an image without the use of any moving parts or the expenditure of fuel energy.