At CNES in Toulouse, doctoral researcher Alexandre Neyret is testing infrared detectors coated with colloidal nanocrystals, a cheaper alternative to classic sensors. In radiation tests the nanocrystal film held up far better than the readout circuit beneath it, and damage appeared only at doses well above real mission levels. Partners include the Paris Institute of Nanosciences, ISAE-SUPAERO and Thales Alenia Space. Our take: cheaper infrared eyes could open up small missions.