In high energy physics experiments, hybrid pixel detectors are an integral part of the tracking systems closest to the interaction points, where their good spatial resolution and high radiation resilience allow for particle tracking by connection of “dots” registered in different layers of an onion-like detector. Within the Medipix Collaborations, a novel, complimentary approach to particle detection has been proposed relying on analysis of imprints seen in the pixel matrix (tracks). These exhibit a rich set of features which can be exploited for the identification of impinging particles, precise particle trajectory or reaction kinematics reconstruction. I will describe how this capability is utilized within LHC experiments, in compact radiation monitors used in space science, and discuss how this enables fundamental-science-reach measurements with simple table-top experiments.