NASA's Artemis II Mission Features iPhones in Space for the First Time

Original: NASA’s Artemis II: How iPhones found their way into space

The Indian Express•Apr 4, 20264 min

In a Nutshell

During NASA's Artemis II mission, astronauts used iPhones to capture images and videos in space, marking the first time smartphones have been officially permitted on a NASA mission. The iPhones, restricted from internet use, serve primarily for documentation and sharing experiences with families and the public.

Key Points

01Artemis II astronauts used iPhones to take photos and videos during their mission.
02The iPhones are restricted from internet connectivity and Bluetooth.
03NASA aims to modernize spaceflight hardware approval processes.
04The use of iPhones allows astronauts to share their experiences with families and the public.
05Apple was not involved in the approval process for the iPhones used in the mission.

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Full Summary

NASA's Artemis II mission, the first crewed lunar mission since 1972, featured astronauts using iPhones to document their journey in space. The iPhone 17 Pro Max devices, provided during the astronauts' quarantine, are limited to taking photos and videos without internet connectivity. This initiative allows astronauts to share their experiences with loved ones and the public, as stated by NASA administrator Jared Isaacman. The approval process for using such modern hardware in space is typically extensive, involving safety evaluations and hazard assessments. While the iPhones are a new addition, the crew also utilized Nikon D5s and GoPro Hero 11s for additional documentation. This mission represents a significant step in integrating modern technology into space exploration, although Apple did not participate in the approval process.

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