Nikon D5 Cameras To be Used By NASA

NASA has recently placed an order for 53 unmodified D5 cameras, which they plan to use at astronaut training facilities on Earth as well as for recording intra- and extravehicular activities at the International Space Station.

NASA has previously ordered D3S DSLR cameras for operations and Nikon say their continued use of Nikon products confirms their reliability as well as their ability to withstand even the harshest of environments. 

Nikon has long been the choice for research and observation in harsh environments including the antarctic and of course, space. Since the 1970s, Nikon has been associated with NASA and has continued to work with them ever since:

1971: Nikon Photomic FTN* camera is used on Apollo 15.

1980: Nikon F3 'Small Camera' with motor drive and F3 'Big Camera' which used long film are delivered. The 'Small Camera' is used aboard the Space Shuttle Colombia the following year.

1999 : Nikon F5 film DSLR is carried aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery to photograph extravehicular activities.

2008: Nikon D2XS DSLRs are used in space to document inspection and maintenance activities.

2013: Nikon D4 DSLRs and 64 Nikkor lenses including the AF-S 800mm f/5.6 are delivered to NASA. They are used to check solar panels and outer surfaces of the ISS among other things. 

2016: 10 more D4 DSLRs are delivered. 

A 'Nikon In Space' timelapse video has been created showcasing the amazing sights Nikon cameras and lenses have captured over the years.