Will NASA astronauts be able to use iPhones in space?

Yes, NASA astronauts will soon be allowed to bring iPhones and other modern smartphones into orbit and beyond, starting with Crew-12 and Artemis II missions.

Why is NASA allowing astronauts to bring smartphones into space?

NASA is allowing smartphones to help astronauts capture and share personal moments and inspiring images from space, and also to challenge and update long-standing processes for qualifying modern hardware for spaceflight.

What camera equipment was previously used on NASA missions?

Before this decision, the newest camera for the Artemis II mission was a 2016 Nikon DSLR, alongside older GoPro cameras.

Home / Science / iPhones Go Orbital: NASA Astronauts Get Smartphone Upgrade

iPhones Go Orbital: NASA Astronauts Get Smartphone Upgrade

5 Feb

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Summary

Astronauts will use iPhones for capturing space moments.
NASA is challenging old rules to qualify modern hardware.
Artemis II mission will feature modern smartphone cameras.

iPhones Go Orbital: NASA Astronauts Get Smartphone Upgrade

NASA astronauts will soon carry modern smartphones, including iPhones, into orbit and on missions like Artemis II. This initiative allows crews to capture and share personal moments and inspiring imagery from space. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated that this move challenges existing processes and expedites the qualification of modern hardware for spaceflight.

Qualifying new technology for spaceflight is a complex process involving radiation, battery, and other testing. Historically, the newest camera for the Artemis II mission was a 2016 DSLR. Now, with smartphones, astronauts will have advanced portable camera capabilities, enhancing their ability to document unique phenomena and lunar moments.

While smartphones have flown in space before, such as on the final space shuttle mission in 2011, this marks a more integrated and official use. Astronauts on private missions have also brought their devices. This update signifies NASA's commitment to adopting contemporary technology to support its evolving space exploration goals.