The Apollo-M MINI camera from Player One Astronomy
Visit Apollo-M MINIdeveloped by Player One Astronomyis a compact, high-performance monochrome camera specially designed for solar, lunar and planetary imaging. Equipped with the Sony IMX429 CMOS sensor, it offers an ideal combination of high resolution, low noise and speed, making it an essential tool for demanding astrophotographers.
Main technical data
- Sony IMX429 CMOS sensor This 2/3" (8.75 mm x 6.6 mm) monochrome sensor offers 2.8 megapixel resolution (1944 x 1472 pixels) with an 11 mm diagonal. The 4.5 µm pixel size guarantees excellent sensitivity and the ability to capture fine details.
- Full Well depth With a maximum capacity of 24.8 ke, the camera captures high-dynamic images without saturation.
- 3rd generation Pregius technology Global shutter: uses a global shutter to eliminate distortion caused by rapid movement, guaranteeing sharp, precise images.
- Ultra-low reading noise In HCG (High Conversion Gain) mode, automatically activated from gain >71, noise drops to just 1.45 e-, offering outstanding image quality even in low-light conditions.
- High speed The camera can achieve up to 84 FPS in full-resolution RAW8 mode via its USB 3.0 port, enabling it to capture dynamic phenomena such as solar flares or lunar detail.
Imaging performance
- Optimized solar imaging Thanks to its dedicated design and global shutter, the Apollo-M MINI is ideal for capturing precise details of the Sun, particularly with H-alpha filters or in white light.
- Compatibility with various optical systems With a recommended focal ratio between f/15 and f/20 for solar imaging, it is perfectly suited to Lunt or Daystar Quark telescopes.
- Hardware BIN2 mode Increases effective pixel size to 9 µm, quadrupling well capacity and improving dynamic range for long exposures.
Technological advances
- Integrated DDR3 buffer memory (512 MB) USB 2.0: Stabilizes data transmission and reduces image loss, even with a USB 2.0 port.
- DPS (Dead Pixel Suppression) technology Identifies and automatically corrects defective pixels to ensure clean images.
- Integrated anti-fog system A heater prevents condensation on the sensor during long imaging sessions in wet or cold conditions.
- Advanced protection : Incorporates an overvoltage and overcurrent mechanism to protect your equipment.
Ergonomic design
The emblematic hexagonal design of Player One Astronomy combines aesthetics and functionality. The bright orange and black finish reflects its solar orientation while offering excellent heat dissipation. Compact (66 mm diameter) and lightweight (180 g), it's easy to integrate into any configuration.
Applications
The Apollo-M MINI is ideal for :
- High-resolution solar imaging with H-alpha filters or white light.
- Lunar and planetary observation thanks to its high cadence and high sensitivity.
- Automatic guidance via the integrated ST4 port.
Additional highlights
- Compatible with software such as SharpCap Pro for precise control of parameters (gain, exposure).
- Quantum efficiency (QE) peaks at around 79 %, guaranteeing optimum capture of incident light.
- Adapters included for compatibility with M42x0.75 threads and 1.25" eyepiece holders.
With its advanced technical features and optimized design, the Apollo-M MINI is the obvious choice for astrophotographers wishing to explore the Sun or capture the fascinating details of our solar system.
