Class I flight Nikon D2XS Camera

Space Shuttle Space Camera

Built as a Class I flight Nikon D2XS camera NASA part #SEZ33120534-302 serial # 1154 for use on the Space Shuttle and International Space Station. The camera bears a white NASA parts decal identifying this camera as a -302. NASA purchased 76 D2XS bodies in August 2007.

In keeping with NASA's procurement to use off the shelf hardware to reduce costs, this camera is basically the same as the commercial or street version.

The Nikon serial no. is 6027421. The camera includes two pieces of velcro. One piece on the side of the body, and one on the top for use in zero gravity. An inventory label indicating it was inventoried in 2015 is on the front. A NASA disposal label on the side indicates the purchase cost as $2845.00.

A piece of Kapton tape covers the connector of an optional wireless LAN adapter on the base of the camera. A custom stainless steel bracket used to mount the camera for use inside the ISS, Space Shuttle or during EVA's is attached to the base of the camera. Attached to the camera is a tracking bar code, part of the ISS Inventory Management System.

There is no flight history for this camera. It’s not likely that it was ever flown. It was probably used for astronaut training, or other use by a NASA contractor. Camera was purchased as NASA surplus. The camera body is functional with the addition of a battery, and compact flash card not included. The hot shoe has become detached, and can be repaired by replacing the four pins that attach it to the body or left as is. With a small amount of presure the hot shoe will remain on the body even if the camera is inverted.

NASA procurement for the Nikon D2XS specified two groups of cameras for purchase, 48 cameras and 28 camera kits. It did not specify what the additional components were to be included in the kits. From the NASA solicitation..."The digital cameras and all camera peripherals must be manufactured from the same lot. The cameras must be lubricated with Braycote lubricating grease which is approved for spaceflight during the manufacturing process." In addition..."NASA/JSC intends to purchase the items from Nikon, Inc." The Strap Eyelets must be removed without compromising the integrity of the camera encasement.

This Nikon D2XS was part of one of the camera kits. In November 2008 NASA downgraded 27 of the 28 kits ordered to Class III status to support training. None of the cameras in the kits is believed to have been flown, including this camera. The Nikon D2XS was in use until mid-2012 on ISS. It was replaced by the Nikon D3, D3S, & D3X.