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iPhone 17 Pro Max NASA Approves iPhone 17 Pro Max for Use on Artemis 2 Deep Space Mission

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NASA’s Artemis 2 mission is shaping up to be a milestone in space exploration. It marks the first crewed spacecraft sent into deep space in 50 years and the first lunar mission of the 21st century. In a surprising twist, NASA has also approved the use of iPhone 17 Pro Max devices on board the Orion spacecraft. Each astronaut is equipped with the smartphone to capture photos and videos, both for personal memories and to share glimpses of the mission with the world.

Astronauts aboard Orion have already begun sharing images of Earth and the lunar surface via NASA’s mission page. These stunning visuals were captured using the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which was launched in September 2025. The move is notable because it represents the first time NASA has allowed a smartphone to be used on a deep space mission, a role previously reserved for specialized cameras and GoPros. The inclusion of a consumer-grade device highlights both the iPhone’s advanced imaging capabilities and its reliability under extreme conditions.

According to The New York Times, NASA follows a rigorous clearance process for any new hardware intended for spaceflight. Tobias Niederwieser, an assistant research professor at BioServe Space Technologies, explained that the agency evaluates each device for safety, durability, and potential hazards before granting approval. The iPhone 17 Pro Max underwent extensive testing to ensure it could withstand radiation, microgravity, and other environmental factors associated with deep space travel.

The decision to approve the iPhone 17 Pro Max underscores the growing role of consumer technology in space missions. By allowing astronauts to use a familiar device, NASA not only simplifies the process of capturing and sharing images but also demonstrates confidence in modern smartphones’ engineering. As Artemis 2 approaches its lunar flyby, these photos and videos provide a unique perspective of space exploration, bridging the gap between advanced technology and everyday tools.

L3Harris Sells 60% Stake in Space Propulsion Business to AE Industrial for $845 Million

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U.S. defense contractor L3Harris Technologies said on Monday it will sell roughly a 60% stake in its space propulsion and power systems business to private equity firm AE Industrial Partners for $845 million, including debt.

The transaction advances L3Harris’ strategy to scale back its exposure to space-related activities and sharpen its focus on defense capabilities, as rising geopolitical uncertainty drives increased demand for military technologies.

Separately, L3Harris announced it will reorganize its operations into three business segments, down from four, to better align its portfolio with what it described as the “future of warfare.” The new structure will consist of space and mission systems led by Sam Mehta, communications and spectrum dominance headed by Jon Rambeau, and missile solutions overseen by Ken Bedingfield.

“We’re now best poised to deliver the speed, technology and commerciality required by our most important customer – the warfighter,” said Chief Executive Christopher Kubasik.

Despite the divestment, L3Harris will retain full ownership of the RS-25 rocket engine, which is currently used in NASA’s Space Launch System for the Artemis program.

The deal with AE Industrial, first reported by Reuters on Sunday, is expected to close in the second half of 2026. AE Industrial said the partnership will also help accelerate the development of next-generation propulsion technologies, including nuclear propulsion systems viewed as critical for future Mars exploration missions.

AE Industrial’s previous investments in the space sector include Firefly Aerospace, RedWire Space, and York Space Systems.

Scientists Confirm Date of the “Solar Eclipse of the Century,” Visible From Spain in 2027

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Astronomers have confirmed that the longest solar eclipse of the 21st century — often dubbed the “eclipse of the century” — will occur on August 2, 2027, and parts of southern Spain will be among the places able to witness it.

According to calculations cited by NASA, the total solar eclipse will last up to 6 minutes and 23 seconds at its maximum, making it the longest total eclipse of this century. Events of this duration are extremely rare and will not occur again until 2114.

The length of totality will vary by location. In Spain, the eclipse will be visible primarily in southern Andalusia, including areas such as Málaga and Cádiz, though totality there will last for a shorter period than in regions closer to the center of the eclipse path.

The eclipse will begin over the Atlantic Ocean near the Strait of Gibraltar and move across North Africa, passing through Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya before reaching Egypt, where the city of Luxor is expected to offer optimal viewing conditions with more than six minutes of total darkness.

Astronomers say the event will provide a rare opportunity for both scientific observation and public viewing, as long-duration total eclipses allow extended study of the Sun’s corona and other solar phenomena.