NASA changes its mind, will allow Artemis astronauts to take iPhones to the Moon

February 6, 2026
NASA changes its mind, will allow Artemis astronauts to take iPhones to the Moon

Here's something that caught my attention — NASA is finally letting astronauts bring their iPhones to the Moon. Imagine that. Jared Isaacman announced that astronauts on Crew-12 and Artemis II can now carry modern smartphones, not just bulky space gear. The idea? To give crews the tools to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments, share images with loved ones, and even send inspiring videos back home. According to Eric Berger writing on Ars Technica, NASA’s move is all about making space more personal and connected. And get this — it's a pretty big shift from the old days when astronauts had to rely on bulky, specialized equipment for photos and communication. As Berger points out, this change could make space travel feel more relatable, more human. But here’s the thing — allowing iPhones in orbit also raises questions about security and data. Still, it’s a clear sign that NASA’s embracing a more modern, user-friendly approach to space exploration. And honestly, the implications for future missions are pretty exciting.

The iPhone is going orbital, and this time it will be allowed to hang around for a while.

On Wednesday night, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman revealed that the Crew-12 and Artemis II astronauts will be allowed to bring iPhones and other modern smartphones into orbit and beyond.

"NASA astronauts will soon fly with the latest smartphones, beginning with Crew-12 and Artemis II," Isaacman wrote on X. "We are giving our crews the tools to capture special moments for their families and share inspiring images and video with the world."

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Audio Transcript

The iPhone is going orbital, and this time it will be allowed to hang around for a while.

On Wednesday night, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman revealed that the Crew-12 and Artemis II astronauts will be allowed to bring iPhones and other modern smartphones into orbit and beyond.

"NASA astronauts will soon fly with the latest smartphones, beginning with Crew-12 and Artemis II," Isaacman wrote on X. "We are giving our crews the tools to capture special moments for their families and share inspiring images and video with the world."

Read full article

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