PANASONIC 3D CAMERA (3DA1 CAMCORDER)
Research Area: Imaging Technology
Expedition(s): 27-ongoing
Principal Investigator(s): ● Rodney Grubbs, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center,
Huntsville, Alabama
RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
The Panasonic 3D Camera (3DA1 Camcorder) can record 3-D high-definition video onto secure
digital memory cards, like the type used in many consumer cameras. The camera experiment
compares the quality of file-based camcorders, as opposed to videotape recorders, and
examines how well the camera’s sensors perform in space. The video also provides a unique
virtual view of the International Space Station (ISS) in 3-D.
EARTH BENEFITS
High-definition video in 3-D
provides a realistic representation
of life on the ISS, which could be
used for public outreach programs.
SPACE BENEFITS
The experiment compares the
Panasonic camera’s metal-oxide
semiconductor (MOS) sensor to
other charge-coupled device (CCD)
cameras. Historically, cameras with
CCD imaging sensors have been
susceptible to radiation damage,
resulting in damaged pixels noticeable as white dots in the picture. Observing the frequency
and decay rate of the MOS sensor allows the determination of whether a MOS-based camera
provides a more robust spaceflight imaging system than a CCD-based camera. Additionally, file-
based workflows allow more flexibility for managing motion imagery and eliminate the need for
returning tapes to Earth, thus lowering costs and increasing efficiency.
This investigation is ongoing; however no publications are expected.
3DA1 Camcorder delivered to the ISS by shuttle flight STS-
135/ULF7.