I am also stumped, I think the main reason must be PR, because NASA engineers wrote the book about how to get CCD's to work in space.
My guess is that they said "Hey lets get some PR by making GoPro space rated" while the "real" engineers build the proper spacecraft, and that's why the cameras are placed on the solar panels as far away from the crew as possible.
I have same experience with the acid scene as a kid, and I can suggest Our RoboCop Remake to get a good laugh.