Nikon has announced today that the Nikon Z 9, a cutting-edge mirrorless camera, was recently launched into orbit aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This marks a significant milestone for the Nikon Z series, as it becomes the first Nikon mirrorless camera to be used by astronauts in space.
The Nikon Z 9, along with multiple bodies
and a variety of NIKKOR Z lenses, was transported to the ISS on the 20th
Northrop Grumman commercial resupply services mission for NASA. The cargo
spacecraft, Cygnus, was carried by the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and launched from
Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on January 30th, 2024.
Equipped with the latest mirrorless
technology, the Z 9 is replacing the Nikon D6 and D5 digital SLR cameras
currently in use on the space station. Nikon cameras have a rich history in
space exploration, dating back to the Apollo 15 mission over 50 years ago.
Since 1999, Nikon cameras and lenses have aided astronauts in scientific
research and capturing stunning images of Earth and space.
Although the Z 9 used in space is
physically identical to its terrestrial counterpart, Nikon engineers
collaborated with NASA to develop custom firmware tailored to the unique
challenges of space exploration. This firmware enhances noise reduction,
modifies file naming sequences, and optimizes default settings and controls for
use in zero gravity and extreme conditions.
In addition to the Z 9 cameras, a
selection of NIKKOR Z lenses, including super-telephoto and macro lenses, were
sent to the ISS to assist astronauts in their tasks. The shipment also included
FTZ II adapters to ensure compatibility with existing equipment aboard the
space station.
