ZWO ASI 178 MC
Best high resolution camera for lunar and planetary imaging enthusiasts.
Designed for both planetary and deep-sky imaging, this cooled sensor delivers low-noise performance for long exposures. It bridges the gap between simple planetary snapshots and serious astrophotography, offering a versatile, high-resolution solution for enthusiasts looking to capture faint celestial details without the thermal interference common in uncooled models.
$930.00
Who it's for
- Astrophotographers seeking crisp, high-resolution images of the moon and sun
- Night sky enthusiasts prioritizing clear images with minimal grain
- Beginners wanting a flexible camera for both planets and deep-sky objects
Who should skip it
- Deep-sky specialists focusing exclusively on very dim, distant nebulae
- Users with older laptops or limited hardware processing power
- Advanced researchers requiring precise narrowband filtering for scientific data
Performance breakdown
Thermal Noise Control
Active cooling effectively suppresses heat buildup during long, demanding exposures.
Planetary Detail Resolution
Small pixel size excels at capturing fine details on lunar surfaces.
Data Transfer Speed
USB 3.0 interface ensures rapid frame rates for high-resolution video capture.
Deep Sky Versatility
Capable for smaller objects, though limited by its smaller sensor size.
Ease of Integration
Standard adapter system makes mounting to most telescopes a simple process.
Low Light Sensitivity
CMOS sensor performs reliably, though requires careful gain management in darkness.
Key Specs
Sensor
Sony IMX178 CMOS
Resolution
6.4 Megapixels
Image Resolution
3096 x 2080 pixels
Pixel Size
2.4 µm
Interface
USB 3.0
Bit Depth
12-bit
Active Cooling
Yes
Connection
1.25 inches
Minimum Exposure Time
32 µs
Flange Focal Distance
17.5 mm
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