Abstract: A novel image encryption scheme is proposed based on the chaotic feature of cross CML(coupled map lattice) which is a model for describing the chaotic states of spatiotemporal systems.The scheme uses Chebyshev mapping to provide the initial value of cross CML and utilizes the generated spatiotemporal chaos sequences to encrypt source image by the process of iteration and permutation.After the encryption image is sent from the sender,the receiver will receive the image decrypted by the decryption scheme once the communication is synchronized,which realizes the secure communication of the image.The scheme has the property of high security because its key space is large,and the high sensitivity to the initial value enhances the anti-attack ability of the encryption scheme.The simulation results show that the scheme is feasible and that the cross CML algorithm used in image encryption is effective and superior.