NASA is clearing the way for a new generation of space photography, and it’s not relying on professional-grade DSLRs alone. For the first time, astronauts will be permitted to bring iPhones – and other modern smartphones – on missions to the International Space Station and beyond, including the upcoming Artemis II lunar flyby. The policy change, announced on , by NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, aims to modernize the agency’s approach to onboard technology and foster more personal connections between astronauts and their families, as well as the public.
While astronauts have been able to capture images from space for decades – NASA began allowing DSLR cameras as early as the 1970s – the move to include smartphones represents a significant shift. Isaacman explained that the goal is to allow crews to “capture special moments for their families and share inspiring images and video with the world.” This suggests a move towards more candid, less formally-composed imagery from space, offering a different perspective than the carefully curated photographs traditionally released by the agency.
The change isn’t simply about convenience. It reflects a broader effort within NASA to streamline hardware approval processes and embrace readily available, cutting-edge technology. Isaacman stated the agency is “challenging long-standing processes and qualifying modern hardware for spaceflight on an expedited timeline.” This suggests a recognition that relying solely on older, specifically-approved equipment can hinder the ability to leverage the latest advancements in imaging and communication.
The initial missions to benefit from this new policy will be SpaceX’s Crew-12 and the Artemis II mission, currently scheduled to launch in . Artemis II will carry three American astronauts and one Canadian astronaut on a ten-day loop around the moon, testing spacecraft systems in preparation for future lunar landings. The inclusion of iPhones on this mission means the devices will travel farther into space than ever before.
Apple is directly involved in this initiative, providing the iPhones used on the missions to NASA. According to an Apple spokesperson, this marks the first time an iPhone has been “fully qualified for extended use in orbit and beyond.” This qualification process is critical; spaceflight presents unique challenges for electronic devices, including radiation exposure, extreme temperatures, and vacuum conditions. Meeting NASA’s stringent requirements, outlined in standards like NASA STD-6016B, necessitates rigorous testing and potentially modifications to ensure reliable operation.
The decision to allow smartphones also highlights how far mobile camera technology has advanced. Previously, the most modern camera approved for the Artemis II mission was a 2016 Nikon DSLR, alongside decade-old GoPro cameras. The capabilities of current smartphone cameras, particularly iPhones, now rival or even surpass those of older dedicated cameras in many respects, offering features like advanced image processing, high dynamic range, and computational photography.
While NASA has not yet specified which iPhone models have been approved for spaceflight, the agency’s willingness to embrace this technology signals a significant change in its operational philosophy. The move is particularly noteworthy given Isaacman’s recent appointment as NASA Administrator – a role traditionally filled by individuals with backgrounds in government or aerospace engineering. Isaacman’s background as a private astronaut and entrepreneur appears to be influencing a more agile and commercially-minded approach to space exploration.
However, Isaacman’s appointment hasn’t been without scrutiny. He faced criticism from Senator Edward Markey over potential conflicts of interest related to his financial ties with SpaceX, including a reported deal worth over $50 million. Disclosures show Isaacman received payments from SpaceX for his participation in the Polaris space exploration program. While these concerns are separate from the smartphone policy change, they underscore the increased attention being paid to the intersection of private enterprise and government space programs.
The implications of this policy change extend beyond simply capturing better photos. Smartphones offer a versatile platform for communication, data collection, and potentially even scientific experiments. While the primary focus appears to be on personal connection and public engagement, the integration of smartphones into the space program could open up new avenues for innovation and collaboration. It remains to be seen how astronauts will utilize this new capability, but the possibilities are as vast as space itself.
