Cosmic debut for Nikon Z 9

Nikon has made history with the launch of its cutting-edge Nikon Z 9 mirrorless camera to the International Space Station (ISS), marking the first time a Nikon mirrorless camera will be utilized by astronauts in space. The Z 9, renowned for its unparalleled image quality and advanced technology, will enable NASA astronauts to capture stunning visuals of Earth and space with unprecedented clarity.

Multiple Nikon Z 9 bodies, accompanied by an impressive array of NIKKOR Z lenses, were transported to the ISS aboard the 20th Northrop Grumman commercial resupply services mission for NASA. Launched via the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on January 30th, 2024, the Cygnus cargo spacecraft carried this essential photographic equipment to the orbiting laboratory.

Replacing the existing inventory of Nikon D6 and D5 digital SLR cameras, which have served on the space station since 2017, the Nikon Z 9 represents the latest evolution in Nikon’s longstanding partnership with NASA. Since the Apollo 15 mission over 50 years ago, Nikon cameras and lenses have played a crucial role in capturing iconic images of space exploration, scientific research, and maintenance activities aboard the ISS.

The Nikon Z series, launched in 2018, has continually pushed the boundaries of innovation and reliability, with the Z 9 standing as the flagship model renowned for its robust build and next-generation technology. While the Z 9 used in space remains physically unchanged from its terrestrial counterpart, Nikon engineers collaborated with NASA to develop custom firmware tailored to the unique challenges of space exploration.