If the precise optics of blurring are known, which they should be in the case of the Columbia launch camera, then algorithms are available to unblurr the resulting images. Memory may be failing me here, but I believe one group was at UC Santa Cruz while another was based out of Rochester.

While on the subject of data recovery, while magetic videotape has incredible information densities, I seem to recall that the technique used in a situation where the tape can not be transported across a videohead is to place it on a non-magnetic mount, and then to move extremely sensitive sensors over it. The sensor readings then have to be restored to information, but in this case a even single image frame or part therof may show the pilot or commander´s reaction to fault indicator lights.

ep