NASA uses old iconic camera for stunning Artemis II shots — vintage tech shines

NASA Artemis II camera: Some of the most breathtaking images from NASA’s Artemis II mission didn’t come from brand-new technology, but from a nearly decade-old camera that many people can still buy today.

Why NASA Chose the Nikon D5 for Artemis II

Instead of relying on the historic Hasselblad cameras used during the Apollo missions, NASA turned to the Nikon D5 DSLR, a model first released in 2016, as per a report. Despite its age, the camera proved to be a powerful tool in space, capturing detailed images of the Moon, Earth, and even a solar eclipse from deep space, as per a New York Post report.

Low-Light Power: How the Camera Captured Space in Detail

The Nikon D5 had already built a strong reputation over the years, especially for its reliability and ability to perform in extreme conditions. According to Nikon’s senior manager Mike Corrado, who has spent decades training astronauts in photography, the camera’s biggest strength is its ability to capture detail in very low light, as per the report.

Proven Technology: What Makes the Nikon D5 Reliable

Corrado said that, “It’s been tested for years. It’s proven technology,” adding that the Nikon D5 has been used successfully in space since 2017 and “is still producing amazing images for them,” as quoted by New York Post.

This capability made a huge difference during Artemis II. With an ISO range reaching up to 3.2 million, the camera could pick up details in the darkness of space that earlier equipment simply couldn’t. By comparison, the film used in Apollo-era Hasselblad cameras had a maximum ISO of just 160.

How Artemis II Captured Stunning Space Images

That’s why astronauts were able to capture striking images, like Earth glowing above the Moon’s surface and clear views of the lunar far side. The camera also handled harsh space conditions, including high radiation levels, due to years of testing, including time spent on the International Space Station, as per the New York Post.

NASA’s Rigorous Testing Process for Space Cameras

NASA’s selection process for equipment is rigorous, sometimes taking years just to approve components like batteries. The Nikon D5 had already passed these tests, making it a reliable choice for the mission. Corrado pointed out that, “Certification happens on all different levels, like the battery has to be tested — I mean, it could take four years for the battery to be approved,” as quoted by New York Post.

Artemis II Camera Setup: How Many Cameras Were Used

In total, Artemis II carried 32 cameras on its 10-day journey, 17 handheld and 15 mounted on the spacecraft, allowing astronauts to document their historic flyby in remarkable detail.

Nikon Z9 Set for Future Moon Missions

While the D5 delivered stunning results, NASA is already looking ahead. The newer Nikon Z9 is expected to take over for future missions, including the planned Artemis IV moon landing in 2028. One Z9 is already being tested in space as part of the current mission, as per the New York Post.

FAQs

What camera did NASA use for Artemis II photos?
NASA used the Nikon D5 DSLR.

Is the Nikon D5 a new camera?
No, it was first released in 2016.