cover image by soak
Do you think it's possible to take photos of space using 35mm film?
Photographer Jason De Freitas successfully captured the moment the International Space Station (ISS) crossed in front of the sun on 35mm film. Taking photos of the dark space on film is challenging, and his successful process has drawn attention. Capturing the fleeting moment of the ISS crossing the sun is a world-first achievement.
© Jason De Freitas | The tiny black dot is the silhouette of the International Space Station.
Photography Challenge with Film Camera and Telescope
In planning the shoot, De Freitas chose the Nikon F5. The Nikon F5, known for its high-speed continuous shooting (8 frames per second), was the perfect camera for capturing the ISS crossing the sun.
Additionally, he used a Celestron Edge HD 8-inch telescope with a solar observation filter to zoom in on the sun's majestic appearance. Using Kodak P3200 film set at ISO 1600, he balanced capturing the moving subject clearly while minimizing graininess.
Precise Planning and Execution
On March 9, 2024, the predicted time for the ISS to cross the sun was just 0.98 seconds.
De Freitas used the site 'Transit Finder' to determine the exact timing for the shoot. He chose a vantage point on the coastal area of New South Wales, Australia, for its wide view.
On the day of the shoot, he loaded 36 frames of film into the Nikon F5 and pressed the shutter.
A New Page in Analog Photography History
A few days later, the developed film clearly showed the silhouette of the ISS. Until the silhouette appeared on the film, he was likely anxious about the possibility of capturing nothing.
© Jason De Freitas | One of only two shots captured.
“In reality, I only managed to capture two shots of the ISS crossing the sun. If I had delayed pressing the shutter by just a few seconds, I would have ended up with photos of just the sun,” De Freitas recalls.
Indeed, a photo of a decisive moment. De Freitas expresses, “Achieving this challenge fills me with deep pride and ignites a new passion.” In an era where digital technology allows for astrophotography, we should celebrate the passion for analog astrophotography.
