In a surprising twist for space exploration, the four astronauts embarking on NASA’s Artemis II mission – the first crewed flight beyond the Moon in over 50 years – will be equipped with a decidedly retro piece of technology: the Nikon D5 DSLR camera. Released in 2016, the robust camera was chosen for its reliability and performance in the harsh conditions of space, a decision that highlights the enduring value of proven technology even in the face of rapid innovation. The mission, currently slated for no earlier than April due to a technical issue with the launch rocket, aims to test the Orion spacecraft and its life-support systems as it journeys around the Moon and back to Earth.
The crew – Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen – will have two Nikon D5s at their disposal to document their historic voyage. A recent video posted to the NASA Artemis Facebook page shows astronauts Wiseman and Koch familiarizing themselves with the “old-school” camera, demonstrating its operation in preparation for the mission. https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2009148379882309%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share While modern mirrorless cameras like the Nikon Z9, currently used on the International Space Station, offer advanced features, NASA explained to PetaPixel that future Artemis missions will incorporate next-generation systems as they become spaceflight qualified.
Why a 10-Year-Old Camera?
The choice of the Nikon D5 isn’t about a lack of newer options, but rather a strategic decision based on the unique demands of deep space travel. According to Charles Boyer of Florida Media Now, the D5’s “low-noise performance and high dynamic range” are crucial for capturing images in the extreme contrast between sunlit spacecraft surfaces and deep shadows. More importantly, the camera has demonstrated a strong resistance to radiation effects, a significant concern beyond low Earth orbit where radiation exposure is considerably higher. The D5’s ability to withstand these conditions ensures reliable operation throughout the mission.
The Nikon D5, when it debuted in 2016, was notable for its impressive ISO range, peaking at 3,280,000. For comparison, the newer Nikon Z9 tops out at 102,400. Even when images from the Z9 are downsized to match the D5’s resolution, the older DSLR still delivers cleaner images at very high ISO settings, a critical advantage when photographing in the darkness of space. The Artemis II crew will likely rely heavily on this capability, alongside substantial denoising software, to capture usable images.
Beyond the DSLR: A Multi-Camera Approach
While the Nikon D5 will serve as a primary imaging tool, it won’t be the only camera onboard the Orion spacecraft. Astronauts will also be permitted to bring their personal smartphones, and Disney is providing handheld GoPro cameras for use in a National Geographic documentary chronicling the mission. This multi-camera approach ensures a diverse range of perspectives and capabilities for documenting the historic journey.
Koch’s Photographic Expertise
Among the four-person crew, astronaut Christina Koch appears poised to be a key visual documentarian. PetaPixel reported that during her 328 days in space between 2019 and 2020 – the longest continuous time a woman has spent in space – Koch captured a wealth of stunning photographs, many of which she has shared on her Instagram account. Her experience suggests she will be well-equipped to utilize the Nikon D5 and other cameras to their full potential during the Artemis II mission.
Though, the launch is not without its challenges. A helium system issue has prompted NASA to roll the rocket back from the launchpad, delaying the mission, initially scheduled for March 6, to at least April. This setback underscores the complexities of spaceflight and the meticulous preparation required for such ambitious endeavors.
As the Artemis II mission faces this temporary delay, the focus remains on ensuring a safe and successful flight. Updates on the launch schedule and mission preparations will be available on NASA’s official website. The choice to rely on a decade-old camera speaks to a pragmatic approach to space exploration, prioritizing reliability and proven performance in the face of the unknown.
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