G3M462C Planetary Camera

Professional color astronomical imaging camera featuring the Sony IMX462C CMOS sensor, delivering an exceptional 152 FPS at full resolution with ultra-low read noise and outstanding quantum efficiency for high-speed planetary and lunar photography.

G3M462C Planetary Camera Product Image

Description and Features

The G3M462C camera combines exceptional speed with outstanding sensitivity, featuring the Sony IMX462C sensor renowned for its low-light performance. With an impressive 152 FPS capture rate at full 1920×1080 resolution and read noise as low as 0.49e⁻, this camera excels at capturing fleeting moments of atmospheric stability. The peak quantum efficiency exceeding 89% ensures that even in challenging conditions, the camera delivers exceptional image quality. This combination of speed and sensitivity makes the G3M462C ideal for high-resolution planetary imaging, lunar surface detail capture, and solar photography with appropriate filters.

The features of G3M462C are listed below:

  • IMX462C Color CMOS Sensor
  • Resolution: 2.1 megapixels (1920×1080)
  • 2.9 μm Square Pixels
  • 1/2.8-inch Optical Format
  • 12-bit ADC
  • RGGB Bayer Pattern
  • Low Noise: 0.49 to 2.1e⁻
  • 152 FPS at full resolution
  • SNR Max: 41 dB
  • Dynamic Range: 75 dB

Core Features

152
FPS @ 1920×1080
Ultra high-speed color capture
11.8 ke⁻
Full Well Capacity
Excellent dynamic range performance
0.49 e⁻
Ultra-Low Read Noise
Exceptional low-light sensitivity
> 89%
Peak Quantum Efficiency
Superior photon conversion
75 dB
Dynamic Range
Capture brightness variations
41 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Clean, detailed images

Technical Advantages

Ultra High-Speed with Exceptional Sensitivity

The G3M462C features the Sony IMX462C sensor, renowned for combining exceptional speed with outstanding low-light performance. With an impressive 152 FPS at full resolution and read noise as low as 0.49e⁻, this camera represents the pinnacle of high-speed planetary imaging technology. The peak quantum efficiency exceeding 89% ensures maximum light capture even at these extreme frame rates, making it ideal for capturing the finest details during brief moments of atmospheric stability.

12-bit ADC and Extreme Frame Rate Performance

The G3M462C features native 12-bit ADC providing 4096 levels of tonal gradation per color channel, ensuring smooth color transitions even at the exceptional 152 FPS capture rate. This remarkable speed enables astronomers to capture hundreds of frames in seconds, dramatically increasing the chances of recording those perfect moments when atmospheric turbulence momentarily calms. The combination of high bit depth and extreme frame rate makes this camera uniquely suited for lucky imaging techniques.

Performance Specifications

Parameter Value Imaging Advantage
Frame Rate 152 FPS Maximum atmospheric moment capture
Read Noise 0.49e⁻ minimum Exceptional faint detail visibility
Quantum Efficiency >89% Superior low-light performance

Outstanding Low-Light Performance

The IMX462C sensor's exceptional quantum efficiency exceeding 89% combined with ultra-low read noise of 0.49e⁻ creates unparalleled low-light imaging capabilities. This performance allows the camera to maintain short exposure times even in challenging conditions, maximizing the benefit of its 152 FPS capability. The sensor excels at revealing faint planetary details, subtle lunar features, and capturing fast-moving solar phenomena with appropriate filters.

Advanced Color Processing at High Speed

The RGGB Bayer pattern sensor delivers accurate color reproduction while maintaining the camera's exceptional speed performance. Despite the extreme 152 FPS frame rate, the camera preserves full color fidelity through optimized data processing pathways. This enables capture of subtle color variations in planetary atmospheres, lunar mineral deposits, and chromospheric features at unprecedented temporal resolution.

Optimized High-Speed Data Transfer

The G3M462C utilizes advanced data management to handle the extreme 152 FPS data stream efficiently. The USB 3.0 interface ensures stable, high-bandwidth communication while sophisticated buffering algorithms prevent frame drops even during sustained capture sessions. This reliability is crucial for planetary imaging where capturing thousands of frames is essential for producing high-quality final images through stacking techniques.

High-Speed Data Processing

Zero Amp-Glow Technology

The G3M462C achieves "zero amp-glow" at the hardware level, maintaining clean backgrounds even during high-speed operation. This technology ensures that the exceptional sensitivity and low read noise characteristics are not compromised by thermal artifacts, allowing the camera to deliver pristine images across its entire operational range.

Zero Amp-Glow Comparison

Optimized for Lucky Imaging Excellence

Planetary Details

152 FPS captures fleeting moments of atmospheric stability for sharp planetary features.

Dynamic Events

High-speed capture ideal for lunar impacts, ISS transits, and rapidly changing phenomena.

The combination of extreme speed, low noise, and high sensitivity creates unprecedented opportunities for high-resolution astronomical imaging.

High-Speed Imaging Applications

Efficient Power System

The camera operates entirely through USB 3.0 interface power delivery. Once connected to the host system using the USB 3.0 cable, the device is immediately ready for operation. This single-cable solution simplifies setup and reduces potential failure points in your imaging system.

Technical Specifications

Core Performance Parameters

Maximum Frame Rate 152 FPS @ 1920×1080 (USB 3.0)
Read Noise 0.49e⁻ - 2.1e⁻
Full Well Capacity 11.8ke⁻
Peak Quantum Efficiency >89%
Dynamic Range 75 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio 41 dB

Basic Technical Specifications

Sensor Sony IMX462C Color CMOS
Image Resolution 2.1 Megapixels (1920×1080)
Pixel Size 2.9μm × 2.9μm
Sensor Format 1/2.8-inch (6.39mm diagonal)
Image Area 5.57mm × 3.13mm
Color Type Color (RGGB Bayer Pattern)
Shutter Type Rolling Shutter
ADC Bit Depth 12-bit
Protection Window IR/AR Coating

Interface and Physical Specifications

Data Interface USB 3.0
Camera Adapter Standard 1.25" outer diameter for telescope
Standard C adapter for industrial lens
Back Focus Distance 17.5mm with C adapter
12.5mm with CS adapter
Camera Dimensions Diameter 37mm × Height 72.4mm
Weight 70 grams
Cooling Passive cooling
Supported OS Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10/11
Mac OS X, Linux
SDK Support Native C/C++, C#/VB.NET, Python
Java, DirectShow, Twain, etc.

Camera Interface and Dimensions

The G3M series body, made from tough alloy, ensures a heavy-duty, workhorse solution. The camera is designed with high-quality IR/AR coating to protect the camera sensor while optimizing light transmission. With no moving parts included, these measures ensure a rugged, robust solution with an increased lifespan when compared to other astronomical camera solutions.

Package Contents

Package Contents Overview

Standard Configuration Includes:

  • G3M462C Camera Body × 1
  • USB 3.0 Data Cable (2m, Type-A to Type-B) × 1
  • ST4 Guide Cable (2m) × 1
  • 1.25" Nosepiece × 1
  • Product Warranty Card × 1
  • Quick Start Guide × 1