Origin of the MIPS Slide 5 of 23 Origin of the MIPS MIPS is an instrument that is based on simple principles.
Super resolution is an important science goal.
At 70 mm, such small pixels would be limited in sensitivity by cosmic ray hits. Scale change at 70 mm needed to provide both super resolution and sensitivity. Science requires ability to measure SEDs at more than 3 wavelengths. Creative use of the scan mirror provides the above capabilities, plus efficient operating modes.