Altair Hypercam 183M PRO USB3.0 Mono Deepsky Imaging / PRO VersionThe Hypercam 183M Mono camera is the thinkers' alternative to a DSLR camera when it comes to astro-imaging.
It has a 20mp Sony IMX183 sensor, featuring amp glow reduction and high sensitivity for extremely smooth, detailed images.
The IMX183 is one of the most sensitive Back Side Illuminated BSI sensors available, with incredibly low read noise.
Version 2 has the following additional features:
- Temperature sensor, with data available in realtime.
- ROI (Region of Interest) for cropped higher speed solar, lunar and planetary imaging.
- 4K Mode (cropped).
- 4GB DDR3 RAM Memory Buffer for better performance
Easier than a DSLR and no "astro modding" required: Hypercam is much easier to use and focus than a DSLR, thanks to the live preview mode in AltairCapture and SharpCap software. You can see a tiny star clearly in real-time, because there is no video compression. Unlike a DSLR, there's no need to modify your camera to capture detail in red hydrogen wavelengths, because it has no red blocking filter in the way. There are no clumsy power connectors, no mirror to lock up, and a "true" RAW mode output. You get what this Sony sensor sees.
Low read noise. The Sony IMX183 CMOS sensor has very low read noise, wide dynamic range, and high sensitivity. The IMX183 ExmorR rated Back Illuminated Sensor has high-sensitivty, low dark current, no smear, and excellent anti-blooming charateristics. BSI technology moves the sensor circuitry behind the pixel, so unlike conventional sensors the light path is not blocked, resulting in higher quantum efficiency than a CCD sensor.
Try deep-sky "lucky" imaging. Short exposures stacked take advantage of high resolution sensors with low read noise, reducing atmospheric aberrations and tracking errors or wind vibration. The more frames you stack, the smoother the image becomes, and the higher the dymanic range. Long cumulative exposure times of many hours can be achieved with modest equipment. The result is a smoother, sharper image, while suppressing any residual amp glow.
Great for refractors. With a pixel size of 2.4um, and an active imaging area of 13 x 9mm, the Hypercam 183M is best suited for imaging at F7 or faster speeds, and performs extremely well an Altair refractor, and say an 0.8sx focal reducer.
Video Astronomy/EAA Friendly. The Hypercam IMX183 sensor is not only desirable for Deepsky Imaging - it's also great for Video Astronomy or "EAA" Electronically Assisted Astronomy. All thanks to the 20mp resolution, high sensitivity, and amp glow reduction technology. What's more you can use the Live Stacking features in the
AltairCapture software or SharpCap PRO. Time-lapse all-sky imaging or video is easy with a DSLR lens and optional
Hypercam Lens Adapters (product code: CLA-EOS or CLA-NIKON).
4GB DDR3 RAM Memory Buffer for smoothest performance with mini-PCs
Included in the box:
- Camera body with internal cooling fan, heat-sink, and front female M42x0.75mm T-Thread interface (12.5mm backfocus).
- 1.8m High-speed USB3.0 cable.
- 1.5m ST4 guide cable.
- 2" OD Nosepiece with standard 2" M48x0.75mm filter thread on the front. (code ALTAIRH-2IN).
- C-Mount insert ring (for C-Mount lenses requiring 12.5mm back-focus) is included.
- Built-in UV-IR Blocking Filter, AR coatings. (Removable for sensor cleaning).
- Plastic screw-on dust cap.
- Allen key for removing the C-Thread insert.
- Note: This camera does not come with software in the box. To operate the camera you will need to download the latest camera drivers at cameras.altairastro.com (opens new window)
Products specifications
| Maximum exposure length | 1000s |
| Connection to telescope | 2" OD Nosepiece with standard 2" M48x0.75mm filter thread on the front. C-Mount |
| Power Supply | USB |
| Bitrate | 8/12 Bit |
| Pixel size | 2.4µm x 2.4µm |
| Pixel | 20 Millionen |
| Vertical Resolution | 5440px |
| Horizonal Resolution | 3648px |
| Sensor size | 13mm x 9mm /diagonal 16mm |
| Sensor type | SONY Exmor R BSI IMX183 Mono CMOS sensor |
| Memory | 4GB DDR3 RAM |
