Nikon personnel around the world were happy to hear of the successful conclusion to that mission, but they were also pleased by the quality of a batch of new photographs captured by onboard Nikon gear.

Many of the images, which you can see here, were taken by the D3S, a camera uniquely suited to photography from this truly unique vantage point. Under the often extreme low-light conditions of space, 

the D3S's combination of high ISO capability and low noise results produces startling, one-of-a-kind images.

Nikon's contribution to NASA's exploration of space is an ongoing effort that involves the legendary durability and reliability of Nikon cameras, NIKKOR lenses, Speedlights and accessories.

In fact, NASA has captured more than 700,000 images with Nikon gear carried into space, beginning with the modified Nikon F used aboard Apollo 15 in 1971. Nikon's relationship with NASA continued as the space agency transitioned to digital with the D2XS in 2008. Last year, NASA ordered 11 D3S cameras and seven AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED lenses for use in recording activities aboard the space shuttle and the space station. The D3S cameras were the same products available to anyone; no special modifications were made.

Nikon gear aboard the space station includes one D3S and eight D2XS D-SLRs; 36 NIKKOR lenses, including three teleconverters; seven SB-800 Speedlights; four special D2XS eyepiece viewfinders that enable image framing and verification through a space helmet; and a variety of filters and cables.

For more about Nikon and NASA, click here.