Updated: April 7, 2026, 12:08 IST

NASA has released a breathtaking set of images from the ongoing Artemis II lunar mission – and some of them were captured using an iPhone 17 Pro Max aboard the Orion spacecraft.

While professional cameras remain the primary tool, astronauts have been using the smartphone to document life in deep space. The integration marks a shift in lunar documentation, blending high-stakes engineering with the relatable perspective of handheld photography.

Iconic Selfie with Earth

One of the most talked-about images shows Commander Reid Wiseman looking out through Orion's window, with Earth glowing softly in the distance. The photo was reportedly taken using the iPhone's front camera, capturing both the astronaut and the fragile-looking planet behind him.

Another similar frame features Mission Specialist Christina Koch positioned near the same viewing area, with Earth visible beyond the glass. NASA notes that the image highlights the crew's perspective during transit – a moment of observation as the spacecraft moves further away from home.