ZWO ASI462MM

The ZWO ASI462MM is a monochrome astronomy camera that features a 2.1-megapixel CMOS sensor with a 4.8μm pixel size. This camera is designed for planetary, lunar, and solar imaging, as well as for capturing deep sky objects with a larger telescope. With a high quantum efficiency of over 80%, the ASI462MM is capable of capturing sharp, high-resolution images with excellent color reproduction and low noise.

The ASI462MM includes a standard T2 thread adapter and is compatible with a range of telescopes, including Schmidt-Cassegrain, Newtonian, and refractors. It can be used with popular capture and processing software, including SharpCap, FireCapture, and RegiStax.

With its compact design, high sensitivity, and fast data transfer rates, the ZWO ASI462MM is a versatile and reliable choice for amateur and professional astrophotography.

ZWO ASI462MM Specifications:

The ZWO ASI462MM is a monochrome astronomy camera designed for capturing high-resolution and high-sensitivity images of celestial objects. Here are the specifications for the ZWO ASI462MM:

Sensor:

• Sensor Type: CMOS
• Sensor Model: Sony IMX462 Exmor
• Sensor Size: 1/2.8"
• Pixel Size: 2.9 μm
• Resolution: 2.3 Megapixels (1936 x 1216)

Performance:

• Quantum Efficiency: Peak around 80%
• Full Well Capacity: 19.5ke-
• Dynamic Range: 13 stops
• Read Noise: 1.2e-

Exposure and Connectivity:

• Shutter Type: Rolling Shutter
• Exposure Range: 32μs to 2000s
• Max FPS at Full Resolution: 89 fps (10-bit), 85 fps (12-bit)
• Interface: USB 3.0

Cooling:

• Cooling: Built-in TEC (Thermoelectric Cooling)
• Cooling Delta: -35°C to -40°C below ambient

Additional Features:

• ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter): 12-bit and 10-bit selectable
• Bit Depth: 12-bit (output), 14-bit (input)
• Telescope Interface: 2" Nosepiece

The ZWO ASI462MM is known for its high sensitivity, low read noise, and impressive dynamic range, making it suitable for capturing detailed images of various astronomical objects, including planets, the Moon, and deep-sky targets.

ZWO ASI462MM Review:

The ZWO ASI462MM is a color planetary camera that has gained popularity for its excellent sensitivity and performance in capturing high-quality images of the planets, the moon, and the sun. This camera is an excellent choice for astrophotographers looking to capture detailed and vibrant images of these celestial bodies. Its compact size, USB 3.0 interface for high-speed data transfer, and compatibility with various telescopes and mounts make it a versatile tool for both beginners and experienced astrophotographers.

With a resolution of 2.1 Megapixels, the ZWO ASI462MM uses a 1/2.8" Sony IMX462 CMOS sensor. The pixels are 2.9μm in size, allowing for detailed imaging. It can provide up to 135 frames per second at full resolution, ensuring smooth videos and the ability to capture fleeting moments of perfect seeing. The camera also has a wide dynamic range and high sensitivity, particularly in the near-infrared range, making it suitable for both planetary and lunar imaging. One unique feature of this camera is the incorporation of Sony's STARVIS technology, which enhances its sensitivity and low-light performance.

The ZWO ASI462MM is not only a powerful camera, but it's also designed with the user in mind. It's lightweight, portable, and easy to set up with your existing equipment. The camera comes with a 2.5mm all-sky lens that can provide a nearly 170° view of the sky. This can be particularly useful for capturing meteor showers or creating full-sky timelapse videos.

As for the ZWO AM5 mount, it has been praised for its portability and functionality. It's a strain wave gear (harmonic drive) telescope mount designed to be compact, portable, and lightweight. With a weight of just 11 pounds, it's highly portable yet robust enough to handle the job of a heavier equatorial mount. Despite its small size, it can support a payload of up to 28 lbs without a counterweight and up to 44 lbs with a counterweight. Its features include guiding error between 0.6-0.8, the ability to function in EQ/AZ modes, Wi-Fi connectivity, compatibility with Vixen and Losmandy dovetail mounts, and flawless function with ASIAIR. However, it should be noted that according to reviews, its tracking accuracy is not superior to other astrophotography mounts.