The NEW USB3.0 version ZWO ASI120MM-S is an excellent choice for an affordable planetary and deep sky camera for those who has just started in astro photography, but cannot spend a fortune on a specialist astro photography camera or want to replace a modified webcam or a cheaper planetary imager.
This NEW version comes with USB3.0 connection that gives you the opportunity to use it with newer laptops at even higher frame rates, thus achieve even better results in planetary imaging.
It comes with an AUTOGUIDER PORT just as its previous USB2.0 version, so you may use it for both imaging or guiding!
With the ZWO ASI120MM camera you can achieve better results than with those beginner cameras. We are not saying that anything is wrong with those cameras like the TSSI or Scopiumcam, but this is just simply better for a still affordable price.
If you however want the ultimate camera, go for a Moravian Instruments camera that you may also find on our website, but of course for more bucks.
Basically, according to the old saying, you get what you pay for...never-the-less we believe that these ZWO cameras offer the best value for the bucks at the moment on the market...
According to customer feedback, these cameras worth every penny invested.
Mostly used for planetary imaging, it can also be used for deep sky imaging up to a certain level. This monochrome version is recommended for L-RGB or narrow band deep sky photography if you want to get out the best data from your camera and achieve sharp, contrasty deep sky images or planetary images, but if you don't want the hassle or cannot spend much time and happy to go for a compromise, simply choose the colour version, the ZWO ASI120MC-S USB3.0.
With this monochrome version, you'll also need a filter wheel and a set of L-RGB filters or H-alpha and OIII filters, and maybe even H-beta and SII filters as well for narrow band astro photography...)
Features of the ZWO ASI120MM-S USB3.0
Recommended for the Sun, Moon and some deep sky objects
(To image the Sun you'll have to use a proper front solar filter or Herschel wedge depending on your telescope. Please contact us if not sure!)
Resolution: 1280X960 at up to 60fps - 70fps
Long time exposure up to 1000s!
NEW - Autoguider Port
Built-in RAW mode and Grey mode output support. Only about 30% storage space required compared to the Color data format!
Peak Quantum Efficiency: 75% (better than ICX618)
No fixed pattern noise (FPN)!
Full aluminum housing with standard 2" interface
M42X0.75 internal thread.
Compatible with DirectShow and ASCOM
Compatible with MaxIm-DL
Specification of ZWO ASI120MM-S USB3.0
Sensor: 1/3" CMOS MT9M034 (mono)
Resolution: 1.2Mega Pixels 1280x960
Pixel Size: 3.75µm
Exposure Rage: 64µs-1000s
ROI: Supported
Interface: USB3.0 / USB2.0
Bit rate: 12bit output(12bit ADC)
Adaptor: 2" / 1.25" / M42X0.75
Dimension: φ62mm X 28mm
Weight: 100g
Working Temperature: -5°C—45°C
Storage Temperature: -20°C—60°C
Working Relative Humidity: 20%—80%
Storage Relative Humidity: 20%—95%