Overview
- NASA’s latest Artemis II gallery includes three widely shared images taken on an iPhone 17 Pro Max, with one showing Commander Reid Wiseman looking back at Earth and some captured with the front camera.
- NASA cleared the phones after checks for shatter risk, loose parts, lithium‑ion battery behavior, and off‑gassing in Orion’s sealed cabin.
- In use, the devices run in a locked mode with cellular, Wi‑Fi, and Bluetooth disabled, and astronauts keep them secured in suit pockets or on cabin mounts to prevent loose items.
- The iPhones supplement pro gear such as Nikon DSLRs and GoPros, adding informal handheld views like selfies and behind‑the‑scenes moments.
- Apple did not prepare or certify the devices, as NASA handled approval, and the familiar smartphone look has driven viral interest and talk of promotional use that could strengthen public engagement with future missions.