
( Brand: Zwo ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: ASI462MC ), ( Type: Planetary Camera )
The ZWO ASI462MC is a high-performance planetary camera designed for dedicated astronomical imaging with telescopes. This monochrome CCD camera boasts a 1.1 MP Sony ICX424ALP Progressive Scan sensor, delivering an impressive resolution of 4608x3456 pixels. With a pixel size of 9.5 m, the ASI462MC offers exceptional sensitivity with low readout noise, making it an excellent choice for deep-sky and planetary imaging.
The camera features a 12-bit ADC and a readout speed of up to 30 frames per second, allowing for rich detail and high dynamic range in your images. Its low read noise of 2.6e- and high quantum efficiency of up to 60% make it ideal for capturing faint celestial objects and subtle details.
The ASI462MC comes with a built-in cooling system with a temperature range of -10 C to 30 C, ensuring optimal performance in various temperature conditions. The camera also supports a wide range of filter wheel and filter types, allowing for versatility in various imaging scenarios.
The ZWO ASI462MC is also equipped with a USB 3.0 interface, which ensures fast data transfer rates and stable power supply. The camera includes software such as ASIAir and ASICapture for easy control and image processing. The compact size of the camera and its lightweight design make it a convenient addition to any telescope setup.
In summary, the ZWO ASI462MC is a high-performance planetary camera that delivers impressive resolution, sensitivity, and versatility. Its cooling system, fast readout speed, and USB 3.0 interface make it an excellent tool for dedicated astronomical imaging. With its capability to capture faint celestial objects and subtle details, the ASI462MC is a must-have for avid astronomers and astrophotographers.
The ZWO ASI462MC is a popular choice for planetary imaging with telescopes due to its high sensitivity and affordable price. Here are some pros and cons that can help potential buyers make an informed decision:
Pros:1. High Sensitivity: The ASI462MC has a high quantum efficiency of up to 65%, making it highly sensitive to light. This is particularly beneficial for planetary imaging, as it allows for shorter exposure times and better signal-to-noise ratio.
2. Low Read Noise: With a read noise of only 2.5 e- (electron), the ASI462MC produces cleaner images with less noise compared to other cameras in its price range.
3. Wide Dynamic Range: The camera's wide dynamic range of 140 dB allows for capturing detailed images of planets and other celestial objects with a large range of brightness levels.
4. Cooled Option: The ASI462MC comes in both un-cooled and cooled versions, providing the option for temperature control to reduce dark current and improve image quality.
5. USB 3.0 Interface: The camera's USB 3.0 interface enables faster data transfer and reduces the need for longer exposure times to collect enough data.
Cons:1. Limited Resolution: With a resolution of 4.71 MP, the ASI462MC may not provide the highest level of detail compared to other planetary cameras.
2. Limited Filter Wheel: The camera's filter wheel only supports up to 4 filters, which may limit the number of imaging possibilities for some users.
3. Limited Software: While the camera comes with ASCOM drivers and software for basic image processing, some users may prefer more advanced software for fine-tuning their images.
Conclusion:The ZWO ASI462MC is an excellent choice for planetary imaging with telescopes due to its high sensitivity, low read noise, and wide dynamic range. While it may not offer the highest resolution or the most advanced features, its affordability and impressive image quality make it a popular choice for many astronomers.
Recommendation:If you are a beginner or intermediate astronomer looking for an affordable and capable planetary imaging camera, the ZWO ASI462MC is an excellent option. Its high sensitivity, low read noise, and wide dynamic range make it a versatile tool for capturing detailed images of planets and other celestial objects. However, if you require a higher resolution or more advanced features, you may want to consider other options in the market.
Attractive red anodized CNC aluminum body stands up to heavy field use. I'm focusing on deep space almost all the time right now and use a different camera for that. I checked it to make sure works when first bought. Ideal for capturing high-resolution color astronomical images of the Moon, Sun, and planets.
Its been stored in a protective case at my storage unit ever since. ZWO ASI462MC Planetary Camera for Telescope, I'm selling this camera because just never using it. QE peak: TBD. Shutter: Rolling shutter.
Its sensitivity in near infrared light regions ranks first among all ASI planetary cameras. 1 - 1.25 Nose piece. The camera has a built-in HCG mode which can effectively reduce the readout noise at high gain and keep same wide dynamic range as low. 1 - 1.25 Cover.
I'll ship it insured for the amount of winning bid. An anti-reflection glass window protects the sensor and helps keep images sharp. Protect window: AR. Good luck buying.
I was going to list information about this, but decided include better from ZWO, below!, For the winning bidder, will honor a 30 day money back guarantee. Supported OS: Windows, Linux Mac OSX.