Can astronauts take Iphones in space? Check NASA’s new update

NASA is opening the door to a more personal side of space travel by allowing astronauts to carry modern smartphones, including iPhones, on select missions. According to The Times of India, the decision marks a shift in how the space agency approaches everyday technology in orbit and how astronauts document their experiences beyond Earth.

The policy change will apply to upcoming missions such as NASA’s Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station and the Artemis II mission, which will take astronauts on a historic journey around the Moon. For the first time, astronauts will be able to use smartphones to capture photos and videos of daily life in space, offering a more natural and spontaneous record of their time in orbit.

Until now, NASA has followed strict rules when it comes to electronic devices. Every piece of equipment taken into space must pass rigorous testing to ensure it can withstand extreme conditions, including radiation exposure, drastic temperature changes and the intense vibrations experienced during launch. Because consumer devices are not designed for such environments, personal smartphones were not permitted on missions.

As a result, astronauts relied on older, approved camera equipment to document their work and surroundings. While these cameras are reliable, they are not always convenient for capturing quick moments or informal experiences. Smartphones, on the other hand, offer high-quality cameras in a compact and familiar format, making them ideal for everyday use.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman explained that allowing smartphones is about making space exploration more human. He said the change will help astronauts capture special moments for their families and share inspiring images and videos with people back on Earth, The Times of India reported. The agency has stressed that smartphones will be used for personal documentation and outreach, while professional equipment will continue to be used for scientific and technical tasks.

The move also reflects a broader effort by NASA to modernise its technology policies. By re-evaluating long-standing restrictions, the agency hopes to reduce unnecessary barriers and make better use of advanced consumer technology that is already widely available. Officials believe this approach could improve efficiency while also helping the public feel more connected to space missions.

Experts say the decision could change how people see space travel. Instead of only carefully framed official images, the public may soon see more candid photos and videos that show what life in orbit is really like. These personal glimpses could help inspire interest in space exploration and make astronauts feel more relatable.

While smartphones in space may seem like a small change, The Times of India notes that it represents a meaningful step toward blending cutting-edge exploration with everyday human experience — bringing space just a little closer to Earth.