The ZWO ASI294MM Pro Monochrome Camera is designed for astrophotographers who demand the best in sensitivity, resolution, and versatility. Built around the highly regarded Sony IMX294 monochrome sensor, this camera offers deep cooling, high dynamic range, and exceptional quantum efficiency. It is an ideal choice for deep-sky imaging, planetary photography, and Electronically Assisted Astronomy, providing both advanced users and newcomers to monochrome imaging with a powerful tool to capture breathtaking celestial objects.
With its large format sensor, low noise electronics, and support for high-resolution imaging, the ASI294MM Pro is particularly well suited for capturing galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in stunning detail. Whether you are planning long-exposure deep-sky imaging or high-speed planetary photography, this camera provides the performance and flexibility needed to elevate your astrophotography.
Sony IMX294 Monochrome Sensor – Large Format with High Sensitivity
The ZWO ASI294MM Pro is built around the Sony IMX294 monochrome sensor, a high-performance imaging chip that has been optimized for astrophotography. This sensor features a large optical format with a diagonal measurement of 23.2 millimeters and an array of 4144 x 2822 pixels, delivering an effective resolution of 11.7 megapixels. This combination provides a wide field of view while maintaining excellent image scale for capturing fine details in deep-sky objects.
The sensor’s native pixel size is 4.63 microns, striking a balance between resolution and sensitivity. However, one of the standout features of the IMX294 sensor is its ability to operate in a two-by-two binning mode, effectively increasing the pixel size to 9.26 microns. This binning mode significantly boosts light-gathering power, making the camera even more effective for capturing faint details in nebulae and galaxies.
Deep Cooling System for Ultra-Low Noise Performance
Long exposure astrophotography requires a camera that can minimize thermal noise, and the ASI294MM Pro excels in this area with its advanced two-stage TEC (thermoelectric) cooling system. This cooling system is capable of reducing the sensor temperature by up to 35 degrees Celsius below the ambient temperature, significantly reducing dark current and noise accumulation over long exposures.
By keeping the sensor at a stable low temperature, this cooling system allows astrophotographers to capture fainter details in deep-sky objects with cleaner images and improved signal-to-noise ratio. The ability to take long-exposure images without worrying about excessive noise makes the ASI294MM Pro a top choice for serious deep-sky imaging.
Exceptional Quantum Efficiency for Maximum Light Capture
Monochrome sensors have a significant advantage over color sensors because they do not use a Bayer matrix, allowing them to capture more photons per pixel. The ASI294MM Pro takes full advantage of this benefit with an exceptional quantum efficiency that exceeds 90 percent at peak wavelengths. This means that more of the incoming light is converted into usable image data, resulting in higher sensitivity and a better ability to capture faint details in astronomical objects.
High quantum efficiency is especially important when imaging narrowband targets, where maximizing light capture is crucial. Whether capturing hydrogen-alpha, oxygen-III, or sulfur-II emissions, the ASI294MM Pro ensures that every photon is recorded with optimal efficiency, making it an excellent choice for dedicated narrowband imaging.
14-Bit Analog-to-Digital Converter and High Dynamic Range
The ASI294MM Pro features a 14-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC), which plays a key role in delivering smooth gradients and high dynamic range. With a dynamic range of up to 13 stops, this camera is capable of capturing a wide range of brightness levels, preserving details in both the brightest highlights and the darkest shadows.
This high dynamic range is particularly useful for imaging objects with varying brightness, such as galaxies with bright cores and extended arms, or nebulae with both faint and bright regions. The ability to capture subtle gradations in brightness ensures that fine details are not lost in overexposed or underexposed areas.
USB 3.0 Interface for Fast Data Transfer
Astrophotographers need a fast and reliable way to transfer large image files, and the ASI294MM Pro delivers with its high-speed USB 3.0 interface. This connection allows for full-frame image transfers at speeds of up to 16 frames per second, making it ideal for live-view focusing, planetary imaging, and efficient deep-sky imaging sessions.
The camera also includes an integrated 256-megabyte DDR3 memory buffer, which helps prevent data loss and ensures smooth image capture, even when using high-speed acquisition settings. This buffer reduces the risk of frame drops and allows for more stable data transmission, making it particularly useful when capturing high-resolution planetary or lunar images.
Versatility for Deep-Sky, Lunar, and Planetary Imaging
While the ASI294MM Pro is primarily designed for deep-sky astrophotography, it also excels in lunar and planetary imaging. Thanks to its low read noise, which can be as low as 1.2 electrons, the camera is well suited for high-speed lucky imaging techniques. This makes it ideal for capturing fine details on the surfaces of the Moon, Mars, and Jupiter, where fast frame rates help overcome atmospheric distortion.
The ability to switch between full-resolution imaging and binned modes provides additional flexibility. Whether capturing large, extended nebulae at full resolution or increasing sensitivity with binned pixels for fainter deep-sky targets, the ASI294MM Pro adapts to the needs of the astrophotographer.
Compatibility with LRGB and Narrowband Filters
As a monochrome camera, the ASI294MM Pro is designed to be used with LRGB or narrowband filters, allowing for greater control over color imaging. By using a filter wheel and high-quality filters, astrophotographers can create stunning, full-color images with higher resolution and detail than color cameras can achieve.
Narrowband imaging is where the camera truly shines, thanks to its exceptional quantum efficiency and low noise characteristics. Capturing deep hydrogen-alpha, oxygen-III, and sulfur-II emissions with this camera results in breathtaking astrophotographs with enhanced contrast and structure.
Designed for Seamless Integration into Imaging Setups
ZWO has designed the ASI294MM Pro with astrophotographers in mind, making it easy to integrate into existing setups. The camera includes M42 and M48 adapter rings for direct telescope attachment, as well as a two-inch and 1.25-inch nosepiece adapter for compatibility with different optical configurations.
The ASI294MM Pro operates efficiently on 12-volt power, ensuring stable operation throughout imaging sessions. Additionally, the camera features a built-in USB 2.0 hub, allowing users to connect accessories such as an autoguiding camera or electronic focuser directly to the main camera. This reduces cable clutter and simplifies equipment management during imaging sessions.
What Comes in the Box?
- ZWO ASI294MM Pro Monochrome Camera
- USB 3.0 Cable for high-speed data transfer
- 12-volt Power Adapter for cooling system
- M42 and M48 Adapter Rings for telescope mounting
- Two-inch and 1.25-inch Nosepiece Adapters
- Soft Carrying Case for protection
Why Choose the ZWO ASI294MM Pro?
The ZWO ASI294MM Pro is a top-tier monochrome CMOS camera that offers a combination of high sensitivity, deep cooling, large sensor format, and low noise performance. Whether you are capturing faint galaxies, rich emission nebulae, or high-resolution planetary images, this camera provides the power and flexibility needed to achieve outstanding results.
Drivers and Softwares:
The ZWO website has the newest camera drivers and many DSO and Planetary capture software choices available.. Please make sure the newest driver and software has been installed before you start imaging:
https://astronomy-imaging-camera.com/software/
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Looking to get an electronic auto focus for your rig? Check out the ZWO EAF.
