Neptune 664C - Planetary camera

Neptune 664C: Third-Generation Planetary Color Camera, the successor to the excellent IMX 464

Visit Neptune 664Cdeveloped by Player One Astronomyis a third-generation color camera specially designed for planetary, lunar and solar imaging. Equipped with the Sony IMX664 CMOS sensor, it combines advanced technologies such as STARVIS 2 and a Super AR Plus window, offering outstanding performance in the ultraviolet and near-infrared.

Main technical specifications

• Sony IMX664 CMOS sensor : 1/1.8" format (7.9 mm x 4.5 mm) with 4.2 megapixel resolution (2704 x 1540 pixels) and 6.46 mm diagonal. Pixel size of 2.9 µm for excellent sensitivity and precise detail reproduction.
• Full Well depth : Maximum capacity of 38.5 ke, allowing high-dynamic images to be captured without saturation.
• High cadence : Up to 93 FPS in RAW10 mode at full resolution and up to 136 FPS in RAW8 mode, ideal for freezing atmospheric turbulence during planetary captures.
• STARVIS 2 technology : Backlit architecture maximizes light sensitivity while reducing noise, improving performance in low-light conditions.

Imaging performance

• Super AR Plus window: This multi-layer anti-reflective window offers very high light transmission (310 nm to 1100 nm), improving performance in the ultraviolet and near infrared (NIR).
• Non-Amp-Glow: Free of amp-glow, ensuring a clean background even during extended exposures.
• HCG (High Conversion Gain) mode : Automatically activated for ≥180% gain, reducing playback noise while maintaining high dynamic range.

Technological advances

• Ultra-low playback noise : From just 6.1 e- to 0.67 e-, depending on the gain used.
• Quantum Efficiency (QE): A quantum efficiency peak of around 91 %, ensuring optimum capture of incident light.
• Integrated DDR3 cache (256 MB) : Stabilizes data transmission and reduces image loss, even with a USB 2.0 port.
• DPS (Dead Pixel Suppression) technology : Automatically corrects defective pixels to ensure sharp, clean images.

Ergonomic design

Player One's iconic hexagonal design combines aesthetics and functionality. The bright red and black finish reflects its planetary orientation while offering excellent heat dissipation. Compact and lightweight (180 g), it integrates easily into any configuration thanks to its standard T2 thread.

Applications

Visit Neptune 664C is ideal for :

• High-resolution planetary imaging (Jupiter, Saturn, Mars)
• Solar observation using H-alpha filters or white light
• Lunar imaging thanks to its high frame rate for capturing precise details

Additional highlights

• Software compatibility : Compatible with software such as SharpCap Pro for precise control of parameters (gain, exposure).
• Accessories Included : Supplied with all necessary accessories: USB3.0 cables, T2/1.25" adapters, protective cap.
• Passive cooling system : Maintains stable performance even during prolonged observation.

Conclusion

With its advanced technical features and design optimized for fast, precise imaging, the Neptune 664C has established itself as an essential tool for astrophotographers wishing to explore the fascinating details of our solar system.