Massa Helmet Cam Can
by Riccardo Monza on Mar 19th, 2009
Lights, Camera, Helmet...
There's been some exciting developments down at Mugello circuit in Italy recently. Ferrari want to keep a keen eye on things, and not only have they got cameras on the smart new F60 car, but have fitted a sneaky James Bond style camera to Felipe Massa's helmet to keep tabs on his driving skills!
These days, we're seeing several cameras scattered around the car which is an absolute feast, and with the latest addition of helmet cameras or 'cams' as they like to known, it gives real insight into where the driver is actually looking. Modern technology is finally bringing us the F1 entertainment we want. We actually feel like we're almost in the driving seat now!
Watch the following clip to see what happens. The first minute shows Massa checking his weight after a particularly heavy session of eating delicious pasta the night before, then he dons gloves and helmet and climbs in. Once on track, the camera noticeably leans through the corners, and we get a close up of the hands working the wheel. Back at the pit garage, the boys in red will be huddled round and tuned in to Channel Helmet Cam, diagnosing Massa's every nod, lean and twitch, and making sure he's not checking out the sunny scenery or attractive ladies in the crowd.
(click to enlarge)
We also have top secret photos of early prototypes of Ferrari's helmet cam, none of which were approved by Massa as it happens. But still an interesting insight into technology of the future.
This article is a taster of a further four part look at the history of onboard cameras, continuing over the next few days on F1Badger...stay tuned folks.
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Comments and Discussion
Very much looking forward to some helmet cam action in 2009
Did the camera attachment affect the integraty of the helmet in Saturdays accident?
Pat, to my knowledge, helmet cameras haven't been used during F1 races yet, but have been around during practice and qualifying (I think) since 1994. It's pretty rare that we are ever shown any of this footage. They have been used in Champ Car and other motor races sometimes. I didn't hear any mention of a camera fitted to Massa's helmet on Saturday.
[...] lens is half way between the top of his visor and the top of the helmet. Article about the camera: http://www.f1badger.com/2009/03/onboard-cameras/ Watch the YouTube clip on that site. At 55 seconds you will see a front view of Massa. The thin [...]