Dr. Koichi Wakata, a Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut, will take images of the earth with the Olympus E-3 throughout his three-month mission on the ISS. Specifically, he will stay in the “Kibo,” which is the Japanese Experiment Module. It is located in the ISS and is Japan’s first manned facility where astronauts can conduct experiments for long periods of time. ‘Hope’ is the English translation for Kibo, and Dr. Wakata will be the first astronaut to inhabit the new experiment module. Images captured by Dr. Wakata will be available on Olympus’ Web site at http://olympus-space-project.com.

Details on the ISS, JAXA, the Japanese Experiment Module, Dr. Wakata and the next mission of the Space Shuttle Discovery are available at http://www.jaxa.jp/index_e.html.

In an affidavit to the court Marc Weinsweig, appointed as Chief Restructuring Office and COO as part of the Chapter 11 process, describes his actions as be aimed at ‘maintaining the day-to-day operations of the company’s business with minimal disruption’ in what he characterizes as ‘daunting economic times.’

Court papers suggest that Ritz Cameras owes over $40 million to its two largest creditors: Nikon Inc. and Canon USA, with a further $8.4 million owed to Fujifilm USA, a subsidiary of which owns around a third of the company. To put the $26.6 million owed to Nikon Inc. into perspective, it would represent somewhere in the region of 20% of Nikon Inc’s expected annual operating income.

Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code provides companies with protection from their creditors while they attempt to restructure. However, US retailer Circuit City, which filed for bankruptcy protection in November 2008 announced the closure of all its stores and the liquidation of its assets on January 16th.

• Olympus FE-20
• Olympus µ [mju:] 1040
• Olympus µ [mju:] 1050 SW – rugged, shockproof, waterproof and even freezeproof camera
• Olympus SP-565 UZ

Olympus FE-20

The new Olympus FE-20 digital camera offers 8 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom lens. The FE20 also features a 2.5-inch LCD screen, Digital Image Stabilisation, Face Detection, xD-Picture Card and microSD Card compatibility and measures just 21.5mm in depth. The Olympus FE-20 will be available in September and comes in silver or black for £119.99.

The Olympus FE-20 unites strength and simplicity. The power of its 3x optical zoom and 8 Megapixels is always at your fingertips with this sleek and compact camera measuring just 21.5mm in depth. But don’t let its looks and features fool you – the FE-20 is fun and easy to use. Face Detection Technology makes it simple to capture your friends and family with optimal focus and exposure settings. And with Digital Image Stabilisation, ISO values of up to 1000 help prevent blur, so you can always be sure that your pictures will come out crisp and clear. This stylish, powerful camera comes in silver or black, and its large 6.4cm/2.5” LCD makes framing and reviewing your shots a cinch.

All of the latest FE series cameras follow a “one button, one function” design principle. Also on board are a help function and a multilingual menu for easy navigation and operation. The included Olympus Master Software also makes for easy photo handling on the computer. Internal memory is just one option for storing photos. Results can also be saved to xD-Picture Card or – thanks to the bundled attachment – on microSD Card too.

The newest addition to Olympus’ FE series – the FE-20 – will hit the shelves in September 2008.

Main features:

• 8 Megapixels to make poster-size prints
• “One button, one function” design principle and in-camera help guide for easy operation
• BrightCapture Technology for better views on the LCD in low light
• Multilingual menus (up to 39 languages available)
• xD-Picture Card and microSD Card compatible
• Shipped with Olympus Master software
• Miniature 3x optical zoom (36-108mm*) in slim body to capture everything from great scenes to stunning portraits
• Digital Image Stabilisation (up to ISO 1000) for less blur
• See and share images more easily on the 6.4cm/2.5” LCD (154,000 dots)
• Perfectly focused and exposed faces even in tricky situations thanks to Face Detection Technology
• 16 scene modes (e.g. Night Scene with Portrait and Candle) ensure the camera has the right settings for different situations
• Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (up to VGA resolution at 30fps)

Olympus µ [mju:] 1040

Combining powerful features in a completely redesigned super-slim metal body, the Olympus µ [mju:] 1040 is an extremely elegant performer. Measuring in at a depth of just 16.5mm at its thin end, it combines a precision 3x zoom (38-114mm*) with cutting-edge features such as Advanced Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology. Furthermore, the brand new Intelligent Auto mode can detect the five most commonly-used scenes and then automatically adjust camera settings including focus and exposure. A large (6.9cm/2.7”) HyperCrystal LCD helps users frame and review their shots. In addition to the camera’s internal memory, photos can be stored on xD-Picture Card or – thanks to a bundled attachment – on microSD Card. The 10 Megapixel µ [mju:] 1040 will hit stores from September 2008 at an RRP of £149.99.

Style meets innovation
The Olympus µ [mju:] 1040 represents a new generation of style. Its sleek, thin metal body really makes a statement and comes in a dazzling array of colors. These include Starry Silver, Midnight Black, Magma Red and Melon Yellow, with a sliding lens cover that enhances the µ [mju:] 1040’s streamlined appearance. The camera’s interface has also been changed as now you can access most functions through a flat control panel. This ensures easy navigation while simultaneously getting the hearts of minimal design enthusiasts racing.

High-tech features
The innovations incorporated in the Olympus µ [mju:] 1040 make capturing picture-perfect images a breeze with the brand new Intelligent Auto mode. This feature automatically detects 5 different popular photographic scenes and adjusts settings, focus and exposure automatically.

Advanced Face Detection Technology lets up to 16 faces be recognized by the camera. Matched with Shadow Adjustment Technology, which cleverly optimizes shadowy areas in picture, you can be sure that your human subjects are always caught in the right light.

Thanks to Digital Image Stabilization, which boosts ISO values, crisp and sharp photos are assured – even in low-light situations. Meanwhile, the powerful TruePic III image processor enhances color reproduction and image quality as well as boosting speed.

Take charge
With the Olympus µ [mju:] 1040, you are in control. Perfect Shot Preview lets adjustments to your photo be shown on the LCD in real time. This makes it easy to choose the right settings to achieve the best effects. In cases where further assistance might be required, the in-camera help guide puts solutions at your fingertips. Users also have a choice of up to 39 languages for the camera menu. In addition to internal memory, pictures can be stored to xD Picture Card, or – thanks to a bundled attachment – to microSD Card. And to ensure easy handling of photos on a computer, the multifaceted Olympus Master software is also included.

Available in Starry Silver, Midnight Black, Magma Red and Melon Yellow, the sleek and ultra-slim µ [mju:] 1040 becomes available in September 2008 for £149.99.

The Olympus µ [mju:] 1040 – main features:

• Miniature 3x optical zoom (38-114mm*) in super slim metal body (just 16.5mm at its thin end) to capture everything from great scenes to exciting close-ups
• 10 Megapixels to make poster-size prints
• The easy way to perfect images – Intelligent Auto mode detects the five most commonly used scenes and adjusts settings, focus and exposure automatically
• Advanced Face Detection of up to 16 persons for perfectly focused and exposed faces, plus correct exposure of other image areas
• 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal LCD for excellent previews even in brilliant sunlight
• Digital Image Stabilisation for less blur even in low light
• TruePic III image processor for faster image handling and higher image quality
• Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (up to VGA resolution at 30 fps)
• xD-Picture Card and microSD Card compatible

Olympus Stylus 1040

Olympus µ [mju:] 1050 SW

The newly-redesigned µ [mju:] 1050 SW is ready for practically any adventure: toss it about, dunk it in the pool or bury it in the snow without thinking – because you don’t have to. The incorporation of an innovative TAP control interface makes adjusting settings and reviewing shots as easy as the tap of a finger. Coming with a bundled microSD attachment, this model affords users even more flexibility when it comes to storing memories. The all new µ [mju:] 1050 SW will be available in a choice of Dolphin Grey, Pacific Blue, Midnight Black or Misty Rose late September for an RRP of £259.99.

Unbeatable
Do what you will to the 10.1 Megapixel µ 1050 SW: drop it, wash it or shoot with it in below-freezing temperatures. Shockproof to 1.5m, waterproof to 3m and freezeproof to -10°C, this extension to Olympus’ most robust compact line-up sports a chic new design that makes it even more fun to take with you no matter you go. A newly-developed TAP control interface lets users trade the press of a button for the tap of a finger: adjust settings and review images on the µ [mju:] 1050 SW’s extra large 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal II LCD by applying a simple tap or two to the exterior of the camera. The integrated 3x optical zoom (38-114mm*) guarantees safety in action with its use of an inner-folded light path – one of the keys to this camera’s uniquely compact design.

Technologies galore
With the µ [mju:] 1050 SW, users can concentrate on getting great shots without distractions. Dependably sharp shots are assured every time thanks to Digital Image Stabilization which automatically adjusts ISO levels to compensate for blur at slow shutter speeds. Meanwhile, integrated Advanced Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology detect human subjects (up to 16 faces) and shadowy parts of an image to optimise the exposure and sharpness – so results come out closer to what the human eye sees. What’s more, the effect of various settings on the outcome – such as exposure compensation – can be previewed with the Perfect Shot Preview function. Incorporation of BrightCapture Technology also means that it is always easy to frame and review shots on the LCD, even in low light. And the TruePic III image processor provides triple enhancement to image results with improved noise reduction, significantly faster image processing speeds and more realistic reproduction of colors.

All the trimmings
There’s a µ [mju:] 1050 SW for everybody. With a unique exterior available in an array of exciting colours including Dolphin Grey, Pacific Blue, Midnight Black and Misty Rose, this model lets users express themselves like never before. Plus, the availability of menus in 39 different languages ensures that virtually anyone across the world can operate the µ [mju:] 1050 SW in their native tongue. What’s more, the inclusion of a bundled attachment, photographers can store their memories on microSD Card in addition to
xD-Picture Card.

The shockproof**, waterproof*** and freezeproof (to -10°C) Olympus µ [mju:] 1050 SW will be available at the end of September 2008.

The Olympus µ [mju:] 1050 SW – main features:

• High-precision 3x optical zoom (38-114 mm*) to capture everything from great scenes to stunning portraits, even in tough conditions
• Shoot even when it’s rough, wet and cold – shockproof to 1.5m**, waterproof to 3m*** and freezeproof to -10°C
• TAP Control Menu for great convenience
• Advanced Face Detection of up to 16 persons for perfectly focused and exposed faces, plus correct exposure of other image areas
• 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal II LCD for excellent previews even in direct sunlight
• 10.1 Megapixels to make poster-size prints
• Digital Image Stabilisation for less blur
• TruePic III image processor for faster image handling and higher image quality
• Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (up to VGA resolution at 30fps)
• Pre-Capture Movie mode
• xD-Picture Card and microSD Card compatible

Olympus Stylus 1050 SW

Olympus SP-565 UZ

Raise your photographic potential with the world leader in the ultrazoom category. Featuring a 20x wide zoom lens (26-520mm), the affordable Olympus SP-565 UZ lets you shoot like a pro without having to carry around tons of equipment. Zoom in ultra-close to any subject, or back out for an ultra-wide shot – all with a single lens. The integration of Dual Image Stabilization also ensures protection against camera shake. Photos are stored to internal memory, xD-Picture Card or – thanks to a bundled attachment – microSD Card. The Olympus SP-565 UZ with a 20x wide optical zoom will be available in late September 2008 for an RRP of £349.99.

So far, yet so close
See the world like you thought you never could. An incredible 20x wide zoom (26-520mm) brings you right into the heart of the action. Capture the excitement of a football match from the sidelines, yet feel the immediacy in your results as if you had been right there on the field. Using the 5x digital zoom and optional TCON-17 Teleconverter (with CLA-10 Conversion Lens Adapter) even more is possible. How much more? Up to a massive focal length equivalent of 4420mm! And with the integration of Dual Image Stabilization – combining both a mechanical and digital image stabilizer – results come out reliably sharp. The 10 Megapixel SP-565 UZ also presents users with flexibility for wide-angle shooting. This is not only perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes and group photos, but also for getting a wider perspective when photographing interiors or other architecture.

Capture more
Sequential shooting at up to 13.5fps lets every facet of a scene be faithfully recorded as it happens. And with the ingenious Pre-Capture mode, recording of pictures can start even before the shutter is fully pressed. In addition, Pre-Capture Movie mode is also on board – providing the same advantage over the clock, but in movie format.  For ultra-close-ups from as little as just 1cm, the Super Macro Mode also gives photographers the chance to explore a subject’s every detail.

Creative control and exceptional results
On top of 23 scene modes covering the most common shooting situations, the SP-565 UZ also offers manual control. P/A/S/M options give users free rein to pursue their creative inspiration. And no matter which mode is chosen, the TruePic III image processor ensures best results.

Advanced Face Detection Technology guarantees that human subjects come out optimally focused and exposed. Up to 16 faces can be detected in a single scene. Shadow Adjustment Technology, meanwhile, recognises dark areas in compositions and adjusts accordingly to return the most realistic image possible.

Low light photography capabilities are enhanced through high ISO settings and BrightCapture Technology. The latter also returns bright views on the 6.4cm/2.5” LCD. On top of a built-in flash, extra illumination – and extraordinary flexibility – can be obtained thanks to compatibility with the Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R wireless flash units.

Perfect for all users
In addition to the internal memory, compatibility with both xD-Picture Cards and microSD Card (due to bundled attachment) gives users a range of storage options. Wearers of spectacles will appreciate the viewfinder’s dioptric correction facility.  And with 39 available languages, photographers are almost always able to operate this camera in their native tongue.

Packed with features that support a creative photographic experience, the Olympus SP-565 UZ delivers ultrazoom performance in a compact and affordable package. It will become available late September 2008.

The Olympus SP-565 UZ – main features:

• Extreme optical performance in minimum size: 20x wide optical zoom (26-520mm*) – from extreme close-ups to the action as well as stunning scenes (additional 5x digital zoom also included)
• Avoids blur thanks to Dual Image Stabilisation
• Don’t miss the moment with high-speed 13.5fps sequence shooting**
• Advanced Face Detection of up to 16 persons for perfectly focused and exposed faces plus correct exposure of other image areas
• P/A/S/M exposure modes for creative freedom
• 25 scene modes for the best results in different situations
• 10 Megapixels to make poster-size prints
• See and share images on the 2.5″/6.4cm LCD
• Built-in flash and wireless flash control from the camera body
• Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (up to VGA resolution at 30fps)
• In-camera panorama function (with xD-Picture Card)
• Includes Perfect Fix and Perfect Shot Preview
• xD-Picture Card and microSD Card compatible

Olympus SP-565

London, 19 August 2008 – Featuring a timeless design and a range of fascinating new features including ultra-fast shooting, the Olympus µ [mju:] 1060 is the ideal stylish and compact companion. A liberating 7x optical zoom (37-260mm*) gets you right up close to subjects, while integrated Dual Image Stabilization eliminates blur caused by camera shake to keep shots sharp. That, plus a generous 7.6cm/3.0” HyperCrystal LCD and advanced technologies – which include Advanced Face Detection Technology, Shadow Adjustment Technology and the exciting new Intelligent Auto Mode – make the 10 Megapixel Olympus µ [mju:] 1060 a compact model to covet. This new model also comes with internal memory plus an xD-Picture Card slot – also doubling as a microSD Card slot to offer plenty of options when it comes to expanding storage space. The Olympus µ [mju:] 1060 becomes available September 2008 for an approximate value of £259.99.

The latest Olympus FE series cameras continue to impress for their user-friendliness, attractive pricing, and great image results. Like all Olympus cameras, they pack superior optical performance into compact dimensions. Boasting up to 5x optical zoom, these FE cameras allow users to get up close and personal with their subjects. The high-grade optics matched with 8 Megapixels ensure premium image quality and precise picture details. In addition to internal memory, photos can be stored to xD-Picture Card or – thanks to a bundled attachment – on microSD Card. Find the newest Olympus FE cameras at a store near you this September for an approximate value of £129.99 for the FE-360, and £179.99 for the FE-370. Each model is also available in a choice of colors.

Camera descriptions

Mju 1060

With its 7x optical zoom (37-260mm*) the µ [mju:] 1060 gets you closer to your subjects, expanding photographic possibilities – no matter if you’re enjoying an outdoor party with friends or exploring a foreign city. An attractively-designed metal exterior, available in Starry Silver, Midnight Black or Cyan Green, cries out elegance and makes it fun and easy to slip it in or out of any handbag or pocket. When it comes to framing and reviewing shots, an extra-large 7.6cm/3.0” HyperCrystal LCD guarantees grand depictions. And Dual Image Stabilization ensures shots always come out sharp – even at high magnifications. Thanks to ample ISO settings, even shots in dimmer environments such as a romantic moonlight dinner are possible. And for extreme-action situations, this model provides an impressive 9fps of sequential shooting power.

FE-360

For those looking to step their style up a notch, the FE-360 offers amazing features– 3x optical zoom and 8 Megapixels – and even packages them in a chic metal body. Naturally, Face Detection Technology is also incorporated, making the FE-360 the life of any party! Digital Image Stabilization with up to ISO 1000 is similarly included, ensuring that pictures will be sharp and blur-free. A 6.4cm/2.5” LCD display makes it easy to frame and review your shots. The FE-360 comes in four colors: silver, black, blue, and pink.

FE-370

The FE-370 delivers a surprising level of performance in a compact package. Its precision 5x zoom lens (36-180mm*) captures the exciting details of every scene. Thanks to Dual Image Stabilization, a feature that combines both mechanical and digital image stabilization and is incorporated in an FE series model for the very first time, clear images are always ensured. In addition, Intelligent Auto Mode makes it easy to take great images – it can automatically detect a range of common shooting scenes and then adjust settings accordingly. With Advanced Face Detection Technology, the FE-370 is the ideal camera for perfect pictures of human subjects. It’s able to recognize up to 16 distinct faces and select the ideal shooting parameters – and matched with the Smile Shot function, it will automatically take the picture when it detects your subject’s smile. Like its fellow FE series cameras, its small and sleek metal body features
8 Megapixels and gives users a choice of colour’s (black or silver). Shots can be framed and reviewed on the large 6.9cm/2.7” LCD. Additional features such as TruePic III, Perfect Fix and Perfect Shot Preview, all ensure top image results.

All of the latest FE series cameras follow a “one button, one function” design principle. Also on board are a help function and a multilingual menu for easy navigation and operation. The included Olympus Master Software also makes for easy photo handling on the computer. Internal memory is just one option for storing photos. Results can also be saved to xD-Picture Card or – thanks to the bundled attachment – on microSD Card too.

The newest additions to Olympus’ FE series will hit the shelves in September 2008.

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 18, 2008 – The National Park Foundation and Olympus Imaging America Inc. challenge everyone who can point and click to grab their camera, head to a federal land, and enter the 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest. This year’s official contest is sponsored by the National Park Foundation and Olympus in partnership with the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service.

The 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest will run from August 18, 2008 through December 31, 2008 and showcases the more than 500 million acres of Federal Lands, drawing entries from all across the United States.

All 2008 entrants will have the opportunity to win one of five exciting prize packages with a total of 14 winners. The Grand Prize winner will earn the international honor of having the winning image grace all the 2010 “Federal Recreation Lands Pass,” an annual admission that provides access to all participating Federal Land Management Agency sites where an entrance fee is charged. Additionally, the grand prize winner will receive an Olympus E-3 DSLR digital camera kit and a five-day, four-night trip to a Federal Recreation Land of his/her choice.

“The National Park Foundation is grateful to Olympus for supporting the 8th annual federal lands photo contest, providing park goers with the opportunity to discover the beauty and diversity of our nation’s protected lands and share that experience with all of America,” said Vin Cipolla, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation. “By entering in the 2008 Share the Experience Photo Contest, individuals can take part in a truly American pastime: helping others see the beauty and value of our national parks. The National Park Foundation is delighted to sponsor this year’s contest with Olympus to get people out to the parks to capture great photo memories.”

“Olympus is proud to be the official sponsor of the National Parks photo contest,” said F. Mark Gumz, President, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “We offer shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof and highly portable cameras, which are perfect for capturing the parks’ elements in any season. We are committed to respecting nature and promoting healthy, active lifestyles. We encourage everyone to capture our nation’s parks through photography while leaving these majestic lands untouched for future generations to appreciate.”

Citizens and legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age can enter by submitting up to three photo entries online at www.sharetheexperience.org; or via mail in a hand-written, stamped envelope to:

Share the Experience Official Federal Recreation Lands Photo Contest
c/o ePrize, LLC
PO Box 8070
Royal Oak, MI 48068

All photographs entered must be taken in one of the Federal Recreation Agency Lands between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008, must be original creations, and must be submitted by the original photographer. PLEASE SEE OFFICIAL RULES AT www.sharetheexperience.org.

Mail-in entries must be postmarked by December 31, 2008 and received by the close of business on January 8, 2009. Each envelope must include only one entry. All photos will be judged on creativity; photographic quality; visual appeal; appropriateness; ability to show diversity and the richness of the Federal Recreation Lands.

Additionally, the public will be able to view an online photo gallery of 2008 submissions from January 9, 2009 – January 16, 2009 and vote on their favorites from January 17, 2009 – January 31, 2009.