QHY miniCAM8 cooled color CMOS astronomy camera launched

QHYCCD has introduced the QHY miniCAM8, a compact astroimaging camera designed for deep space and planetary photography. Measuring just over four inches in diameter and a few inches thick, the miniCAM8 delivers high-resolution, cooled imaging in a small form factor. It leverages Sony’s IMX585 8-megapixel sensor, known for its sensitivity and dynamic range, to produce detailed and accurate images.

The QHY miniCAM8 camera from QHYCCD is a compact astroimaging camera capable of high quality deep space photography

The miniCAM8 is available in multiple configurations, starting with the base QHY miniCAM8M/C model at a price of $599. Two combo versions offer additional accessories: the QHY miniCAM8C combo at $699 and the QHY miniCAM8M combo at $799. These options provide flexibility for users looking to customize their setup.

Unlike many compact cameras, the miniCAM8 does not compromise on quality. It includes a full thermoelectric (TE) cooling system that can lower the temperature by 45? below ambient. This cooling capability minimizes noise during long exposures, making it ideal for capturing faint celestial objects. An 8-position filter wheel is integrated, allowing for LRGB and narrowband imaging without needing external attachments.

The miniCAM8's sensor uses a back-illuminated CMOS structure, enhancing sensitivity and efficiency. This design allows more light to reach the photosensitive layer, improving the capture of faint objects. The IMX585 sensor has a maximum quantum efficiency of 60% in the near-infrared range and 92% in the visible spectrum, delivering sharp and clear images in various wavelengths.

The miniCAM8 uses QHYCCD’s anti-dew technology and includes zero amplifier glow technology

QHYCCD has incorporated multiple features to ensure high performance. The camera includes zero amplifier glow technology, which eliminates unwanted bright spots in images. To handle condensation, the miniCAM8 uses QHYCCD’s anti-dew technology, featuring a built-in dew heater for the optical window and an electric heating board to prevent dew formation. Humidity control within the sensor chamber is managed through a silicon gel tube socket, maintaining the internal environment and ensuring the sensor stays dry.

In addition to cooling, the miniCAM8 employs proprietary technology to control dark current noise, a key factor in producing clean long-exposure images. The sensor's native 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is enhanced through QHYCCD's Linearity HDR Mode, which adjusts image data to 16-bit depth. This mode smooths transitions and enhances color accuracy by combining high and low gain values, offering a more detailed and vibrant final image.

miniCAM8 models

QHYCCD has packaged the miniCAM8 with a variety of accessories, making it ready for immediate use out of the box. These include a 12V power adapter, a set of power cables, a USB 3.0 cable, and various adapters for connecting to different telescopes. Users who opt for the combo packages also receive additional filters, such as luminance, red, green, and blue filters for the QHY miniCAM8M Combo and light pollution filters for the QHY miniCAM8C Combo.

The camera’s advanced cooling system, robust sensor, and built-in filter wheel make it a comprehensive solution for both amateur and professional astronomers. Its compact design, without sacrificing features, highlights QHYCCD’s commitment to innovation in astroimaging technology. While the QHY miniCAM8 is compact, it delivers capabilities that are typically found in larger, more complex systems, offering a reliable and portable solution for capturing the wonders of the night sky.

The miniCAM8 models are available globally, though prices may vary depending on location, shipping costs, and applicable taxes. QHYCCD continues to provide high-quality imaging tools for astronomers, ensuring that the miniCAM8 meets the needs of those who require precise and reliable equipment for deep space exploration.

QHY miniCAM8 technical specs

The QHY miniCAM8 uses a Sony IMX585 8MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor, featuring a 1/1.2-inch sensor size with 2.9μm pixels. It includes a dual-stage thermoelectric cooling system that reaches -45? below ambient, minimizing noise for long exposures. The camera supports full resolution frame rates of 41.5 FPS at 8-bit and 23.5 FPS at 16-bit, with up to 177 FPS for region-specific imaging. It has a 12-bit ADC, outputting as 16-bit through QHYCCD’s Linearity HDR mode for enhanced dynamic range. Additional features include a built-in 8-position filter wheel, zero amplifier glow, anti-dew technology, and 512MB DDR3 image buffer. The camera connects via USB 3.0 and has a 1.25-inch telescope interface.