James Cameron builds 3D camera for NASA

James Cameron has been helping NASA build a 3D camera for the next generation Mars rover.

According to The AP, the plan for a camera had actually been scaled back due to budget concerns, until the director personally lobbied NASA administrator Charles Bolden when the two met in January.

His efforts got him listed as a co-investigator on the project.

The filmmaker previously helped build a new submarine for his exploration of the Titanic wreck, which was the basis for his IMAX documentary.

The camera is scheduled to launch with the Curiosity rover next year.