“Nikon Z9 Proves Technological Superiority in Lunar Exploration”
- Analysis of images captured by astronauts using the handheld Nikon Z9 utilized in research on a new structure of the solar 'F-corona'
- Out of 32 cameras aboard Artemis II, two Nikon D5 units and one Nikon Z9 were deployed for astronaut observation tasks
Nikon Imaging Korea (CEO Hae-Hwan Jung) announced that solar corona observation images captured by Nikon’s flagship mirrorless camera, the Z9, during NASA’s crewed lunar exploration program, Artemis II, contributed to uncovering a new structure of the 'F-corona'.
This study was conducted by a research team at Tokyo City University, who analyzed solar corona images taken by astronauts using the Nikon Z9 during the Artemis II mission. The results revealed that while the F-corona exhibits a distribution similar to existing predictive models in the horizontal direction relative to the Sun, it extends significantly wider than previously predicted in the vertical direction. This is evaluated as a new scientific achievement that broadens the understanding of the space environment surrounding the Sun. The F-corona is a faint glow caused by cosmic dust surrounding the Sun, a region whose exact structure had previously remained unidentified.
The outstanding image quality of the Z9 played a crucial role in this observation. Leveraging its high resolution, wide dynamic range, and superior low-noise performance, the camera precisely captured subtle light around extremely bright celestial bodies like the Sun, unlocking new observational findings.
A total of 32 cameras were onboard the Artemis II mission. Among these, 15 were fixed cameras installed inside and outside the spacecraft, while 17 were handheld cameras operated directly by astronauts. For celestial observation missions during the close lunar flyby, two Nikon D5s and one Nikon Z9 were deployed.
Hae-Hwan Jung, CEO of Nikon Imaging Korea, stated, “It is immensely meaningful that Nikon cameras served as more than mere imaging gear in space exploration, directly contributing to new scientific breakthroughs. Moving forward, Nikon will continue to leverage its accumulated optical and imaging technologies to deliver trusted performance not only in photography and videography, but also across various frontiers, including scientific research and space exploration.”
Meanwhile, in March 2024, Nikon signed a Space Act Agreement with NASA to support the development of the 'Handheld Universal Lunar Camera (HULC)' for the Artemis campaign. To ensure reliable shooting performance under the extreme temperature fluctuations and space radiation environment on the lunar surface, the camera system was optimized through various engineering adaptations, including sequence redesigns, vacuum thermal testing, and the development of a custom ergonomic grip.
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