The camera can detect objects by the natural electromagnetic rays -- known as Terahertz or T-rays -- that they all emit.

Terahertz rays lie between infrared and microwaves on the electromagnetic spectrum and can pass through clouds and walls.

"Acts of terrorism have shaken the world in recent years and security precautions have been tightened globally," said Clive Beattie, chief executive of ThruVision, developers of the camera.

"The T5000 dramatically extends the security surveillance envelope for ThruVision’s passive body scanning products used at important sites and events."

"The ability to see both metallic and non-metallic items on people out to 25m is certainly a key capability that will enhance any comprehensive security system deployment.”

Customers are already targeting applications for the new system.

“This could be deployed at major sporting events, concerts and rail stations as well as for military use,” said Bill Foster, president of Thermal Matrix, a US defence contractor specialising in imaging systems for the military.

The technology was originally developed for use by the European Space Agency.

But scientists soon realised that T-rays could be employed closer to home for security applications.

The initial research took place at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, but was then spun off into ThruVision for commercialisation.

“Astronomers use T-ray cameras that can see through dust and clouds in space, revealing what lies beyond," said Dr Liz Towns-Andrews, Director of Knowledge Exchange at STFC.

"ThruVision uses them to see weapons hidden by clothing."

"This is a first-class example of how fundamental scientific research can be applied to benefit the whole of society."

"Who would have imagined that research carried out by space scientists to study the stars could result in it being used to protect the public
from terrorists and therefore save lives?"

"The impact of this will be remarkable."