ZWO ASI294 Color CMOS Telescope Camera
Best versatile camera for amateur deep-sky and planetary astrophotographers.
Capture stunning celestial images with this advanced color CMOS telescope camera. Designed for both planetary and deep-sky astrophotography, it boasts a high-resolution 11.7 MP sensor with large 4.63-micron pixels for excellent light gathering. Its impressive dynamic range ensures detailed shots, even in challenging conditions. The camera connects easily via an M42 thread and is powered through USB, offering a convenient and powerful tool for amateur astronomers seeking to explore the cosmos.
$699.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1569
/ 2593
#1569 in Telescope Accessories
Price vs Category Average
+5%
Above average
ADC
14
/ bit
Who it's for
- Astrophotographers capturing high-contrast deep-sky targets
- Beginners seeking a streamlined, one-shot color imaging workflow
- Imagers needing clean, low-noise data for long exposures
Who should skip it
- Users requiring straightforward, native-resolution sensor performance
- Detail-oriented imagers prioritizing maximum sensitivity and sharpness
- Photographers with limited storage or older processing computers
Performance breakdown
Light Sensitivity
Large pixels and high quantum efficiency capture faint deep-sky details effortlessly.
Dynamic Range
Thirteen stops of range preserve subtle gradients in high-contrast celestial scenes.
Setup Simplicity
USB power and standard M42 threading make for a streamlined connection.
Imaging Versatility
Equally capable of tracking fast planetary motion and long-exposure nebula shots.
Build Quality
Lightweight aluminum housing provides durability without adding unnecessary strain to mounts.
Sensor Resolution
The 11.7 MP array offers a sharp balance between detail and file-size.
Key Specs
ADC
14 bit
Back Focus
6.5 mm
Camera Connection
M42 x 0.75
Color or Mono
Color
Cooled
Uncooled
Delta T
45C
Dynamic Range
13.1 Stops
Full Rez Frame Rate
16fps
Know before you buy
Yes, the ASI294 is versatile enough for both. Its large pixels and high dynamic range make it effective for capturing faint deep-sky objects, while the sensor resolution provides enough detail for planetary imaging.
No, this specific version of the ASI294 is uncooled. It is designed for users who prioritize a lightweight, USB-powered setup for simpler imaging sessions.
The larger pixel size allows the sensor to gather more light, which is particularly beneficial for deep-sky objects that are often quite dim. This helps improve your signal-to-noise ratio during longer exposures.
The camera features a standard M42 x 0.75 thread. You will need a compatible T-ring or adapter that matches your telescope's focuser to secure the connection.
A wide dynamic range allows the camera to capture a broader spectrum of light intensities in a single frame. This helps prevent bright stars from blowing out while still retaining detail in the darker regions of a nebula or galaxy.
No, this camera is powered entirely through its USB connection. This simplifies your cable management and makes it an excellent choice for portable setups.
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$699