Smartphones Blast Off: NASA Approves Latest Mobile Tech for Space Missions

Daily Technology

16/02/2026

In a significant shift for space exploration and communication, NASA has announced that astronauts will now be permitted to bring the latest smartphone technology on upcoming missions. This new policy aims to equip crews with advanced tools for capturing and sharing their experiences, marking a departure from the reliance on older imaging equipment.

Key Takeaways

Modern smartphones are now approved for use by astronauts on space missions.
The policy begins with the SpaceX Crew-12 and Artemis II missions.
This allows astronauts to better document and share their experiences with families and the public.
It signifies a move away from legacy cameras and older imaging technology.

A New Era of Space Photography

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman revealed the groundbreaking policy change via an X post, stating that the initiative will commence with the SpaceX Crew-12 mission, scheduled for launch on February 11th, and the Artemis II mission, slated for a March liftoff. The SpaceX Crew-12 will transport four astronauts to the International Space Station, while Artemis II will embark on a 10-day lunar flyby. Isaacman emphasized that this change provides crews with "the tools to capture special moments for their families and share inspiring images and video with the world."

Technological Advancements in Orbit

This development marks a significant upgrade from the imaging equipment previously used by astronauts. Until now, space missions have largely relied on legacy cameras and older imaging devices. Reports indicate that current missions utilize equipment such as 2016 Nikon DSLR and GoPro cameras. An Apple representative confirmed that this is the first time the iPhone has been "fully qualified for extended use in orbit and beyond."

A Legacy of Space Imagery

Photography has been an integral part of space missions since the pioneering Apollo era of the 1960s and 1970s. The iconic images captured during the Apollo 11 mission, which saw the first humans walk on the moon, were taken with specially modified Hasselblad cameras. The new policy ensures that future astronauts will have access to cutting-edge technology to continue this rich tradition of documenting humanity's journey into space.

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