Many photography enthusiasts already know that NASA contracted Hasselblad to build kits designed specifically for their space missions. Neil Armstrong used a Hasselblad 500EL Data Camera with a Zeiss Biogon 60mm f/5.6 lens that sported a special glass plate with precise etchings that were exposed onto each shot to allow for photogrammetry on the moon. “The journeys home from the moon made very special demands on what could return regarding weight, etc. So, having fulfilled their mission, a total of thirteen cameras were deemed as an encumbrance and therefore left behind. Only the film magazines containing the precious latent images were brought back,” according to Hasselblad. Continue reading for another video, more pictures and information.
“Astronaut Wally Schirra had been using a Hasselblad 500c for his personal photography and suggested medium format to the NASA managers in charge of photographic equipment. NASA engineers modified the camera for space – removing excess weight, modifying the controls to accommodate space suits, and commissioning a custom back to hold more film,” reports Peta Pixel.
