Abstract: We propose a handheld projective imaging device for orthotopic projection of near-infrared fluorescence images onto target biological tissue at visible wavelengths without any additional visual aid. The device integrates a laser diode light source module, a camera module, a projector, an ultrasonic distance sensor, a Raspberry Pi single-board computer, and a battery module in a rugged handheld unit. It is calibrated at the detected working distance for seamless coregistration between fluorescence emission and projective imaging at the target tissue site. The proposed device is able to achieve a projection resolution higher than 314 mum and a planar projection bias less than 1 mm at a projection field of view of 58 x 108 mm2 and a working distance of 27 cm. Technical feasibility f