Demonstrating the relative sensor size of Opticstar CCD cameras.
Not all 6 mega-pixel T.E.C. cooled astronomy cameras are created equal.
The DS-615C XL 6.1MP camera is in a class of its own with 50% higher sensitivity in real-world applications
(100% max) than other cameras using the same Sony CCD due to its hardware gain and outstanding hardware
noise suppression, both features implemented in the camera hardware.
The DS-336C XL 3.3MP camera offers focusing at 5 frames per second even at full resolution. All XL cameras
support video modes for real time views of deep-sky objects and easier focusing...
Images captured by Naoki Yakoo with Opticstar PL-131 COOLAIR cameras.
The PL-131 CoolAir is a USB2.0 fan-cooled camera that offers
exceptional performance and versatility easily outperforming
cameras costing considerably more.
The camera excels as a planetary (Solar and Lunar) camera with
frame rates of up to 220fps. Gain, Region of Interest (ROI)
and binning are all features implemented in the hardware.
1.3MP 1280x1024 Micron colour or monochrome sensor. 1280x1024 22 fps, 640x480 80fps, 320x240 220fps (max). Gain, ROI (region of interest) and binning implemented in hardware. 1ms minimum exposure time. Low noise (fan cooled).
Images captured by John Haunton with the Opticstar DS-145M ICE.
The Opticstar DS-145 ICE offers the highest sensitivity
of all Opticstar CCD cameras. In fact, it is 50% more sensitive, in real applications (100% max),
than other cameras using the Sony ICX285 CCD. This is due to its advanced Gain function in hardware
and noise suppression electronics...
High Performance Cameras for Astronomy and Sciences
updated: 19th March 2010
Moravian Instruments (MI) designs and manufactures advanced CCD cameras for low light
imaging in astronomy and microscopy. The G2 range of cameras uses the latest Kodak
sensors with Quantum Efficiencies ranging between 80% and 90%. The high Q.E. is
complimented with very low noise and cooling to -45°C below ambient temperature...
An impressive 9.4 megapixel mosaic of the Moon by Herwig Sulzbacher with
the Opticstar PL-130M.
Manufacturer Spotlight
Orion Optics
updated: 4th August 2010
The new AG Advanced Astrographs from the ever expanding range of telescopes from
Orion Optics combine their high quality standards with new advanced optical designs...
The A&M 80mm f/6 A&M/TMB has been
reviewed in Cloudy Nights
and it has been hailed as the "best of breed". The review concludes by saying "offers
stunning performance while standing out from the crowd, look no further".