Panasonic's AG-3DA1 camera will shoot 3D video, Robonaut vlogs on the International Space Station

NASA's Robonaut 2 is something of a celebrity around these parts, owing to his dashing good looks and insatiable appetite for publicity, which can now be put to good use with a new toy the landlubbers are sending his way: a professional 3D camera. The human-aiding robot that presently calls the International Space Station home will soon be joined by Panasonic's AG-3DA1, a full 1080p 3D video recorder with twin lenses and dual 2 megapixel 3MOS sensors. Panasonic is also loading up the next Space Shuttle Atlantis flight to the ISS (scheduled for June 28th) with 25.5-inch 3D LCD monitors and rugged Toughbook laptops to help with documenting proceedings aboard the research vessel. The new shooter costs a whopping $21,000, and though it's not clear whether NASA paid for it or Panasonic just decided to be charitable, the space agency should have the cash to splash after deciding to shelve the James Cameron-approved project to slap a zoom-equipped 3D imager on its next Mars rover. We're just wondering if the human world is quite ready for 3D video blogs from its favorite robotic astronaut.

Panasonic AG-3DA1 Full HD 3D Camcorders Planned for First Flight to Space Onboard the NASA Space Shuttle Mission

3DA1 3D Camcorders to Document Training and the International Space Station after being delivered on June 28th Mission of Space Shuttle Atlantis to the International Space Station
2011 NAB Show

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--2011 NAB Show -- In a new dimension for 3D, Panasonic Solutions Company today announced that its AG-3DA1 Full HD 3D camcorder is headed to space to document the International Space Station on the final mission of the NASA Space Shuttle.

"Panasonic is delighted that the 3DA1 3D camcorder is playing a vital role in documenting the NASA mission"

Panasonic is supplying NASA with AG-3DA1 3D camcorders, BT-3DL2550 25.5" 3D LCD monitors and ruggedized Toughbook laptop computers to document the training and preparation leading up to the June 28th launch of the Space Shuttle Atlantis to the International Space Station. Testing and training for the June 28th launch are currently taking place at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.

After being delivered during the shuttle mission, NASA astronauts will use the lightweight 3DA1 to document the International Space Station in 3D. While at the International Space Station, the astronauts will conduct a number of scientific missions that they will capture with the 3DA1.

"Panasonic is delighted that the 3DA1 3D camcorder is playing a vital role in documenting the NASA mission," said John Baisley, Executive Vice President, Panasonic Solutions Company. "Human spaceflight is about the discovery of new things and places. The amazing 3D images that the 3DA1 produces may allow a new and unique view of the exploration of space for many applications."

About the AG-3DA1

The AG-3DA1 is the world's first professional, fully-integrated Full HD 3D camcorder that records to SD card media. The AG-3DA1 will democratize 3D production by giving professional videographers a more affordable, flexible, reliable and easier-to-use tool for capturing immersive content as well as providing a training tool for educators. At less than 6.6 pounds, the AG-3DA1 is equipped with dual lenses and two full 1920 x 1080 2.07 megapixel 3-MOS imagers to record 1080/60i, 50i, 30p, 25p and 24p (native) and 720/60p and 50p in AVCHD. It can record for up to 180 minutes on dual 32GB SD cards in Panasonic's professional AVCHD PH mode, and offers professional interfaces including dual HD-SDI out, HDMI (version 1.4), two XLR connectors, built-in stereo microphone and twin-lens camera remotes. For more information, visit www.panasonic.com/broadcast.

About Panasonic Solutions Company

Panasonic Solutions Company empowers people whose jobs depend on reliable technology. The company delivers collaboration, information-sharing and decision-support solutions for customers in government, healthcare, education and a wide variety of commercial enterprises. Products and services within the company's portfolio include Panasonic Toughbook® mobile computing solutions, projectors, professional displays (including both plasma and LCD), and HD and 3D video acquisition and production solutions. As a result of its commitment to R&D, manufacturing and quality control, Panasonic is known for the reliability and longevity of its products. Panasonic Solutions Company is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, which is the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC).