Nikon F3 cameras operated by astronauts during the Space Shuttle program in the 1990s used this type of film cassette. In particular, this roll was for an Automated Exposure Control (AEC) camera, or "Big Camera," which was operated in a fixed window position to capture up to 250 sequenced still photos timed by an intervalometer.

Prior to the time of digital cameras, astronauts were limited to the number of photographs they could take based on the number of film magazines stored onboard. This magazine may have flown in space; NASA documentation lists it as a Class I item, meaning it was approved for flight.

NASA transferred this magazine to the Museum in 2005.

Display Status

This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

James S. McDonnell Space Hangar

Object Details

Country of Origin

Japan

Type

EQUIPMENT-Photographic

Manufacturer

Nikon

Dimensions

Overall: 4.92 x 4.13cm (1 15/16in. x 1 5/8in.)

Materials

Metal, plastic

Inventory Number

A20050094000

Credit Line

Transferred from NASA

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.