{"title":"Player One Guide Cameras","description":"\u003cp\u003ePlayer One guide cameras are sensitive mono cameras used to autoguide a mount through a guide scope or off-axis guider. Dedicated guiders include the Xena 585M, Ceres 462M and Sedna-M IMX178.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMono Mars models such as the Mars-M IMX290 and Mars 662M also guide well and can double as planetary cameras. Small pixels suit short guide scopes, while larger sensors help find guide stars through an OAG.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"player-one-ceres-462m-guide-camera","title":"Player One Ceres 462M Mono Guide Camera","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2.1 Megapixel Sony IMX462 Mono CMOS Sensor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e136 FPS at Full 1944x1096 Resolution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeak Quantum Efficiency ≈91%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRead Noise as low as 0.7e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUltra-light 65g body with 1.25\" form factor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlayer One Ceres 462M Mono Guide Camera\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Player One Ceres 462M Mono Guide Camera combines the high-sensitivity 2.1MP Sony IMX462 sensor with a high-speed USB 3.0 interface, creating a dual-purpose powerhouse for both autoguiding and planetary imaging. With its 2.9µm pixels, the sensor delivers a peak Quantum Efficiency of approximately 91% and read noise as low as 0.7e, ensuring faint guide stars are captured with high signal-to-noise. At its full 1944x1096 resolution, the Ceres 462M streams 12-bit data at a remarkable 136 FPS, fast enough to freeze atmospheric turbulence for sharp images of Jupiter and Saturn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSony IMX462 Sensor: 91% QE and 0.7e Read Noise\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe core of the Ceres 462M is Sony's IMX462 monochrome sensor, renowned for its exceptional sensitivity, particularly in the near-infrared spectrum. A peak QE of ≈91% means the vast majority of photons hitting the 2.9µm pixels are converted into signal, which is critical for detecting dim stars in an off-axis guider or pulling out faint detail in methane band planetary imaging. When combined with a readout noise floor of just 0.7e and a full well capacity of 12k e, the camera maintains excellent dynamic range for both guiding and short-exposure lunar or solar work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e136 FPS Planetary Imaging via USB 3.0\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile designed as a guide camera, the Ceres 462M's USB 3.0 data port unlocks its potential as a high-speed planetary imager. It can capture full-resolution 1944x1096 frames at 136 FPS in 10-bit mode, allowing you to record thousands of frames in minutes. This high frame rate is essential for \"lucky imaging,\" enabling software to select only the sharpest frames unaffected by atmospheric seeing. For even faster rates, dropping to 640x480 resolution yields an incredible 304 FPS, ideal for tracking fast-moving features on Jupiter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e1.25\" Form Factor and 65g Lightweight Body for Guiding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngineered specifically for guiding, the Ceres 462M features a slim 40mm diameter body that slides directly into any 1.25\" guidescope or off-axis guider, ensuring parfocality with most standard eyepieces. Weighing only 65g, it adds negligible load to your focuser or mount, preventing flexure and balance issues. The camera's 7.5mm back focal length provides critical spacing for use in various optical trains without requiring complex adapter setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlayer One DPS Technology and Hardware Protection\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ceres 462M incorporates Player One's proprietary DPS (Dead Pixel Suppression) technology. The camera's onboard memory stores a map of any abnormal pixels, which are then corrected in real-time on every frame by calculating a median value from surrounding pixels. This results in cleaner raw data with fewer artifacts. For long-term reliability in the field, the camera also includes built-in overvoltage and overcurrent protection circuits to safeguard its sensitive electronics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlayer One Ceres 462M vs. ZWO ASI290MM Mini: A Guiding Camera Shootout\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the ZWO ASI290MM Mini has been a long-standing benchmark for monochrome guiding cameras, the Player One Ceres 462M leverages a newer sensor and faster interface for a clear advantage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSensor Sensitivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Ceres 462M's IMX462 sensor offers significantly higher peak QE (≈91%) compared to the ASI290MM Mini's IMX290 sensor (≈80%). Its lower read noise floor (0.7e vs 1.0e) also allows it to detect fainter stars more reliably.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInterface Speed:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is the most significant difference. The Ceres 462M uses a USB 3.0 port capable of 136 FPS at full resolution, making it an excellent planetary camera. The ASI290MM Mini is limited by its USB 2.0 interface to much slower frame rates, restricting its use almost exclusively to guiding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePhysical Design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Both cameras share the same compact 1.25\" body style, making them equally well-suited for dropping into a guidescope or OAG.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor users who want a single camera that can serve as both a top-tier, sensitive guider and a high-speed planetary imager, the Ceres 462M is the more capable and modern choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the Ceres 462M's high frame rate help with imaging Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJupiter rotates very quickly, and long exposures will blur its fine cloud details. The Player One Ceres 462M captures video at up to 136 FPS, allowing you to use very short exposures (milliseconds) to \"freeze\" the atmospheric seeing. By recording thousands of these short exposures, you can use software to analyze and stack only the sharpest 10-20% of frames, resulting in a final image with far more detail than a single long exposure could ever achieve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use the Player One Ceres 462M with an Off-Axis Guider (OAG) on an 8\" SCT?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the Ceres 462M is an excellent choice for an OAG on a Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope (SCT). Its high sensitivity (≈91% QE) and low read noise (0.7e) are critical for detecting guide stars in the dimmer, off-axis light path of an SCT. Its lightweight 65g body and compact 1.25\" format also make it easy to install without causing balance or flexure problems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is DPS (Dead Pixel Suppression) and why does it matter for the Ceres 462M?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDPS, or Dead Pixel Suppression, is a built-in feature on the Player One Ceres 462M that actively corrects for hot, cold, or dead pixels in real-time. The camera stores a map of these faulty pixels and replaces their values on each frame with a median value from the surrounding pixels. This gives you cleaner raw frames straight from the camera, reducing post-processing work and improving the reliability of autoguiding software that might otherwise lock onto a hot pixel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Player One Ceres 462M sensitive enough for methane band imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The Sony IMX462 sensor used in the Ceres 462M is known for its exceptionally high sensitivity in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum, where the methane absorption band (around 890nm) is located. This makes it one of the best affordable monochrome sensors for capturing high-contrast details in the cloud tops of Jupiter and Saturn using a methane band filter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the benefit of the Ceres 462M's USB 3.0 port over a USB 2.0 guide camera?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary benefit is speed. A USB 3.0 port allows the Player One Ceres 462M to transfer images at up to 136 frames per second at full resolution. A USB 2.0 camera is typically limited to 10-20 FPS. While this doesn't impact guiding performance (which uses slow frame rates), it completely transforms the camera into a high-performance planetary imager, a dual-use capability most USB 2.0 guiders lack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need special software to use the Player One Ceres 462M?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo, the Player One Ceres 462M uses standard drivers and is compatible with most major astronomy software. For guiding, it works directly with PHD2. For planetary imaging, it is supported by popular capture software like SharpCap, FireCapture, and AstroDMx Capture. You will need to download the appropriate drivers from the Player One Astronomy website.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSony IMX462 CMOS (Monochrome)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1944×1096 (2.1 Megapixels)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.9µm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5.6mm × 3.2mm (6.5mm Diagonal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMax Frame Rate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e136 FPS (at 1944x1096, 10-bit)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eQuantum Efficiency (QE)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e≈91% Peak\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReadout Noise\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.6e – 0.7e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFull Well Capacity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12k e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eADC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12-bit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShutter Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRolling Shutter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExposure Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e32µs - 2000s\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eData Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB 3.0 \/ USB 2.0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eST4 Compatible\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdapter Interface\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.25″ \/ M28.5 x 0.6\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBack Focal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7.5mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProtective Window\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAR Plus Multi-Layer Coating (D21*1.1mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e40mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e65g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFrame Rates (USB 3.0)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1944×1096 @ 136FPS (RAW8) \/ 1280×720 @ 205FPS (RAW8) \/ 640×480 @ 304FPS (RAW8)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player_One_Ceres_462M_Camera_Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/player-one-astronomy.com\/service\/software\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 640 512\" class=\"DAV-img-box\"\u003e\u003cpath fill=\"#0047a7\" d=\"M128 32C92.7 32 64 60.7 64 96l0 256 64 0 0-256 384 0 0 256 64 0 0-256c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64L128 32zM19.2 384C8.6 384 0 392.6 0 403.2C0 445.6 34.4 480 76.8 480l486.4 0c42.4 0 76.8-34.4 76.8-76.8c0-10.6-8.6-19.2-19.2-19.2L19.2 384z\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e \n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Software\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/player-one-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePlayer One 2-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Player One","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51112078934301,"sku":"POA-Ceres-462M","price":250.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player-One-Ceres-462M-Mono-Camera.png?v=1775157947"},{"product_id":"player-one-sedna-m-imx178-mono-guide-camera","title":"Player One Sedna-M IMX178 Mono Guide Camera","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6.4 Megapixel Sony IMX178 monochrome sensor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2.4μm pixel size for high-resolution guiding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUp to 60 FPS at full 3096x2078 resolution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUltra-low read noise down to 1.3e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompact 1.25\" body weighing only 65g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlayer One Sedna-M IMX178 Mono Guide Camera\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Player One Sedna-M camera leverages a 6.4 Megapixel Sony IMX178 monochrome sensor with 2.4μm pixels to deliver exceptionally high-resolution guiding and planetary imaging from a compact 1.25\" body. With a peak Quantum Efficiency of approximately 80% and a full well capacity of 15k e, the 14-bit ADC captures a wide dynamic range, resolving faint guide stars with precision. The USB 3.0 interface enables a full-resolution (3096×2078) capture rate of 60 FPS, while the camera's low read noise, ranging from 2.2e down to 1.3e, ensures guide corrections are based on clean signal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e6.4MP IMX178 Sensor: High-Resolution Guiding and Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sedna-M is built around a 1\/1.8\" Sony IMX178 sensor, whose 6.4MP resolution is a significant step up for a guiding camera. With 3096×2078 resolution and small 2.4μm pixels, you can achieve a finer image scale, allowing your guiding software to detect subtle star movements for more precise corrections. This high resolution also makes the Sedna-M a capable lunar, solar, and planetary imaging camera, resolving fine crater details and atmospheric bands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e60 FPS Capture Rate: USB 3.0 for Precise Guiding Corrections\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough its USB 3.0 data port, the Sedna-M achieves a maximum frame rate of 60 FPS at full resolution. For autoguiding, this high frame rate allows for more frequent corrections, effectively smoothing out tracking errors caused by seeing or mount mechanics. For planetary imagers, it's the key to \"lucky imaging,\" capturing thousands of frames in a short period to freeze moments of atmospheric stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e3096×2078:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60 FPS (RAW8) \/ 30 FPS (RAW16)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1920×1080:\u003c\/strong\u003e 118 FPS (RAW8) \/ 57 FPS (RAW16)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1280×720:\u003c\/strong\u003e 175 FPS (RAW8) \/ 85 FPS (RAW16)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e640×480:\u003c\/strong\u003e 257 FPS (RAW8) \/ 124.5 FPS (RAW16)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLow-Noise Signal: 1.3e Read Noise and Automatic HCG Mode\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sedna-M features an extremely low read noise floor, dropping to just 1.3e at high gain settings. This is further enhanced by an automatic High Conversion Gain (HCG) mode that activates above a gain of 30, reducing read noise without sacrificing the sensor's 15k e full well dynamic range. Player One also integrates Dead Pixel Suppression (DPS) technology, which analyzes dark frames to map and correct fixed pattern noise in real-time, delivering cleaner frames for both guiding and imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCompact 65g Design: A 1.25\" Form Factor for Any Guidescope\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngineered for minimal impact on your imaging train, the Sedna-M weighs only 65g and has a 40mm diameter body that slides directly into any 1.25\" guidescope or off-axis guider. This lightweight, compact design eliminates concerns about focuser sag or balance changes, making it an easy addition to any setup. The camera has a standard 7.5mm back focal length, simplifying spacing calculations for various optical configurations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlayer One Sedna-M vs. ZWO ASI178MM: A Guiding Camera Comparison\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth the Sedna-M and the popular ZWO ASI178MM are built on the same excellent 6.4MP Sony IMX178 mono sensor, offering identical resolution and 2.4μm pixel size. The primary differences lie in their design and onboard features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eZWO ASI178MM Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e The ASI178MM is part of a larger, more established ecosystem of accessories and has a longer track record in the community.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlayer One Sedna-M Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e At just 65g, the Sedna-M is significantly lighter than the 120g ASI178MM, making it a better choice for setups where weight and balance are critical. The Sedna-M also incorporates automatic HCG mode and on-board DPS technology to actively manage and reduce noise before the image is even downloaded.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the Player One Sedna-M's 6.4MP resolution help with guiding?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe high 3096×2078 resolution allows the Sedna-M to see more stars in a given field of view compared to lower-resolution guide cameras. This increases your chances of finding a suitable guide star, especially in star-poor regions. Additionally, the small 2.4μm pixels enable sub-pixel guiding accuracy, leading to finer tracking corrections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is HCG mode on the Player One Sedna-M camera?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHCG (High Conversion Gain)\u003c\/strong\u003e mode is a feature of the sensor that automatically activates when the gain is set above 30. It significantly reduces the camera's read noise (down to 1.3e) while preserving the full dynamic range of the 15k e full well. This allows you to use higher gain to capture fainter guide stars without introducing excess noise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use the Player One Sedna-M for more than just guiding?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. With its high resolution, 14-bit ADC, and fast frame rates, the Sedna-M is an excellent camera for high-resolution monochrome imaging of the Moon and Sun (with a proper solar filter). It also excels at capturing detailed videos of planets like Jupiter and Saturn, allowing you to use lucky imaging techniques to overcome atmospheric turbulence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of guidescope is best for the Sedna-M's 2.4μm pixels?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe small 2.4μm pixels are well-suited to short focal length guidescopes, typically in the 150mm to 300mm range. For example, on a 200mm focal length guidescope, the Sedna-M would yield an image scale of 2.47 arcseconds\/pixel, which is an excellent match for guiding main imaging scopes with focal lengths from 600mm to 1500mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow fast can the Player One Sedna-M capture video of Jupiter with an 8\" SCT?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen imaging a planet like Jupiter, you don't need the camera's full 3096×2078 sensor. By using a smaller region of interest (ROI), such as 640×480, you can increase the frame rate dramatically. The Sedna-M can capture at 257 FPS at this resolution, which is ideal for freezing moments of good seeing and gathering thousands of frames for stacking in just a few minutes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the purpose of the DPS technology in the Player One Sedna-M?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDPS (Dead Pixel Suppression)\u003c\/strong\u003e is an onboard technology that actively removes hot or cold pixels from your images. The camera builds an internal map of these defective pixels from dark frame analysis and corrects them in every frame you capture. This results in cleaner raw data, saving you processing time and ensuring your guiding software isn't thrown off by a false star.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSONY IMX178 1\/1.8\" CMOS (mono)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3096×2078 (6.4 MP)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.4μm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor Diagonal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eImage Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7.4mm × 5.0mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eADC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e14 bit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eQuantum Efficiency (Peak)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e≈80%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFull Well Capacity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e15k e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReadout Noise\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.2e ~ 1.3e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShutter Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRolling shutter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExposure Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e32μs - 2000s\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMax Frame Rate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e60 FPS (at 3096×2078, 10bit)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eData Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB 3.0 \/ USB 2.0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdapter Interface\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.25″ \/ M28.5 x 0.6\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBack Focal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7.5mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProtective Window\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eD21*1.1MM AR Plus Multi-Layer Coating\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e40mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e65g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFrame Rates (USB 3.0)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3096×2078@60FPS(8bit)\/30FPS(16bit), 1920×1080@118FPS(8bit)\/57FPS(16bit), 640×480@257FPS(8bit)\/124.5FPS(16bit)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player_One_2026_Planetary_Camera_Catalog_Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/player-one-astronomy.com\/service\/software\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 640 512\" class=\"DAV-img-box\"\u003e\u003cpath fill=\"#0047a7\" d=\"M128 32C92.7 32 64 60.7 64 96l0 256 64 0 0-256 384 0 0 256 64 0 0-256c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64L128 32zM19.2 384C8.6 384 0 392.6 0 403.2C0 445.6 34.4 480 76.8 480l486.4 0c42.4 0 76.8-34.4 76.8-76.8c0-10.6-8.6-19.2-19.2-19.2L19.2 384z\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e \n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Software\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/player-one-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePlayer One 2-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Player One","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51112091681053,"sku":"POA-Sedna-M","price":348.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player-One-Sedna-M-Mono-Camera.png?v=1775158188"},{"product_id":"player-one-xena-585m-mono-guide-camera","title":"Player One Xena 585M Mono Guide Camera","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8.3 Megapixel Sony IMX585 monochrome sensor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1\/1.2\" format with 12.85mm diagonal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2.9μm pixel size\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeak Quantum Efficiency (QE) of ≈91%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExtremely low 0.7e read noise\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e47 FPS at full 3840×2160 resolution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlayer One Xena 585M Mono Guide Camera\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Player One Xena 585M combines a large-format Sony IMX585 1\/1.2\" monochrome sensor with 8.3 megapixels and sensitive 2.9μm pixels for an exceptionally wide guiding field of view. With a peak quantum efficiency of ≈91% and an ultra-low read noise of 0.7e, this camera detects faint guide stars that smaller-chip cameras miss. It sustains a rapid 47 FPS at its full 3840×2160 resolution via USB 3.0, enabling high-speed planetary imaging and sub-second guide corrections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSony STARVIS 2 Sensor: 8.3 MP at 2.9µm\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the core of the Xena 585M is the Sony IMX585 monochrome sensor, featuring back-illuminated STARVIS 2 architecture. This combination results in a ≈91% peak QE, ensuring that the majority of photons hitting the 12.85mm diagonal sensor are converted to signal. The camera's 2.9μm pixels and 8.3 MP resolution create a large, detailed canvas, making it vastly easier to locate a suitable guide star, especially in star-poor regions or when using an off-axis guider. The deep 47k e full well capacity allows for longer exposures when imaging without saturating brighter stars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHigh-Speed Guiding and Imaging: 47 FPS at Full Resolution\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePowered by a USB 3.0 data port, the Xena 585M achieves a full-frame capture rate of 47 FPS at 10-bit ADC. This speed is critical for \"lucky imaging\" of the Moon and planets, allowing you to freeze moments of steady atmospheric seeing. For autoguiding, this high frame rate enables your software to make rapid, precise corrections, effectively averaging out atmospheric turbulence for tighter, rounder stars in your final image. By selecting a Region of Interest (ROI), you can boost speeds further, reaching up to 187 FPS at a 1920×1080 resolution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdvanced On-Board Features: HDR Mode and Dead Pixel Suppression\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Xena 585M integrates advanced firmware features that streamline the imaging process. These technologies are handled directly on the camera, reducing the need for post-processing and improving your raw data from the moment of capture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Dynamic Range (HDR) Mode:\u003c\/strong\u003e When enabled, this mode provides a larger dynamic range and lowers read noise. This is invaluable for imaging objects with a bright core and faint outer structures, such as the Orion Nebula (M42), preventing the core from blowing out while still capturing delicate nebulosity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDead Pixel Suppression (DPS):\u003c\/strong\u003e The camera maps and corrects for fixed abnormal pixels internally. During an exposure, the value of a dead pixel is replaced by a median value calculated from surrounding pixels, resulting in cleaner frames before they are even saved to your computer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCompact 1.25\" Body \u0026amp; ST4 Port: A 65g Guiding Solution\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeighing only 65g with a 40mm diameter, the Xena 585M is engineered to minimize load on your focuser and mount. Its 1.25\" form factor allows it to slide directly into a standard guide scope or OAG, simplifying setup and reducing potential flexure. The camera has a short 7.5mm back focal length for easier focus acquisition and includes a standard ST4 port for direct connection to your equatorial mount's autoguide input.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlayer One Xena 585M vs. ZWO ASI585MM: A Head-to-Head Comparison\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth the Xena 585M and ZWO ASI585MM are built around the same excellent Sony sensor, but key differences in their engineering cater to different priorities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdvantage ZWO ASI585MM:\u003c\/strong\u003e The ZWO camera offers dual back focus distances of 6.5mm and 17.5mm, providing more flexibility for accommodating filter wheels or specific off-axis guiders in the optical train.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdvantage Player One Xena 585M:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Xena 585M is significantly lighter at just 65g (compared to the ZWO's 126g), a critical factor for reducing focuser strain and maintaining balance. It also features a slightly larger full well capacity (47k e vs. 40k e) and a lower minimum read noise (0.7e vs. 0.9e), giving it an edge in raw signal-to-noise performance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat makes the Player One Xena 585M a good choice for both guiding and planetary imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Xena 585M excels at both due to its combination of a large, high-resolution \u003cstrong\u003e8.3 MP sensor\u003c\/strong\u003e, small \u003cstrong\u003e2.9μm pixels\u003c\/strong\u003e for detail, high sensitivity from its \u003cstrong\u003e≈91% QE\u003c\/strong\u003e, and fast frame rates up to \u003cstrong\u003e47 FPS\u003c\/strong\u003e at full resolution. This allows it to find faint guide stars easily and also freeze atmospheric turbulence for sharp planetary video.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is HDR mode and when should I use it with the Xena 585M?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHDR (High Dynamic Range)\u003c\/strong\u003e mode is an on-camera setting that expands the range of brightness the sensor can capture in a single frame while lowering read noise. You should enable it when imaging deep-sky objects with both a bright core and faint outer regions, like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the Orion Nebula (M42), to avoid saturating the core.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the Xena 585M perform as a guider on an 8\" f\/10 SCT with an off-axis guider (OAG)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt will perform exceptionally well. The large \u003cstrong\u003e1\/1.2\" sensor format\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a wide field of view, which is critical for finding a suitable guide star at the long focal length of an f\/10 SCT. The high sensitivity (\u003cstrong\u003e≈91% QE\u003c\/strong\u003e) and low \u003cstrong\u003e0.7e read noise\u003c\/strong\u003e ensure that even faint stars in the OAG's pick-off prism are easily detected for stable guiding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use the Player One Xena 585M to image Jupiter with a Celestron 9.25\" EdgeHD at f\/10?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. The \u003cstrong\u003e2.9μm pixels\u003c\/strong\u003e are an excellent match for the resolution of a 9.25\" SCT at its native focal length. By using a Region of Interest (ROI) like \u003cstrong\u003e1280x720\u003c\/strong\u003e, you can achieve frame rates of \u003cstrong\u003e286 FPS\u003c\/strong\u003e, which is more than fast enough to capture sharp detail on Jupiter and \"freeze\" the atmospheric seeing for lucky imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need special drivers to use the Player One Xena 585M?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, you will need to download and install the Player One drivers from their website. Once installed, the Xena 585M is compatible with most major astrophotography software packages, including SharpCap, N.I.N.A., TheSkyX, and PHD2 Guiding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the main advantage of the Xena 585M's 1\/1.2\" sensor over smaller guide camera sensors?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary advantage is the significantly larger field of view. The \u003cstrong\u003e12.85mm diagonal\u003c\/strong\u003e of the Xena 585M's sensor makes it far more likely that a suitable guide star will fall within the camera's view on the first try, saving time and frustration compared to hunting for stars with a smaller-chip camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSONY IMX585 1\/1.2\" CMOS (mono)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiagonal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12.85mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTotal Pixels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8.3 Mega Pixels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMax Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3856×2180\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.9μm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eImage Sensor Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e11.2mm × 6.3mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePeak QE\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e≈91%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFull Well\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e47k e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReadout Noise\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7.2e – 0.7e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eADC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 bit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShutter Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRolling shutter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExposure Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e32μs - 2000s\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eData Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB 3.0 \/ USB 2.0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.25″ \/ M28.5 x 0.6\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBack Focal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7.5mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProtective Window\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eD21*1.1MM High Quality AR Plus Multi-Layer Coating\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e40mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e65g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFrame Rate (USB 3.0)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3856×2180: 46FPS (8bit) \/ 23FPS (16bit)\u003cbr\u003e1920×1080: 187FPS (8bit) \/ 93.5FPS (16bit)\u003cbr\u003e640×480: 418FPS (8bit) \/ 275FPS (16bit)\u003cbr\u003eAdditional resolutions available in software\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player_One_Xena_585M_Camera_Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/player-one-astronomy.com\/service\/software\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 640 512\" class=\"DAV-img-box\"\u003e\u003cpath fill=\"#0047a7\" d=\"M128 32C92.7 32 64 60.7 64 96l0 256 64 0 0-256 384 0 0 256 64 0 0-256c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64L128 32zM19.2 384C8.6 384 0 392.6 0 403.2C0 445.6 34.4 480 76.8 480l486.4 0c42.4 0 76.8-34.4 76.8-76.8c0-10.6-8.6-19.2-19.2-19.2L19.2 384z\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Software\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/player-one-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePlayer One 2-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Player One","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51112092893469,"sku":"POA-Xena-585M","price":502.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player-One-Xena-585M-Mono-Camera.png?v=1775158289"},{"product_id":"player-one-mars-662m-mono-planetary-camera","title":"Player One Mars 662M Mono Planetary Camera","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2.1 Megapixel Sony IMX662 monochrome sensor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e108 FPS capture rate at full 1936x1100 resolution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge 54k e- full well capacity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExtremely low readout noise, down to 0.7e-\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12.5mm back focal length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlayer One Mars 662M Mono Planetary Camera\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Player One Mars 662M Mono Planetary Camera leverages Sony's latest STARVIS 2 technology to set a new benchmark for planetary imaging. Its IMX662 sensor delivers a full 1936x1100 resolution at a blistering 108 FPS, capturing moments of perfect seeing with its sensitive 2.9μm pixels. A massive 54k e- full well capacity prevents saturation on bright targets, while peak QE of approximately 91% and readout noise as low as 0.7e ensure that even the faintest details are recorded with exceptional clarity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSony IMX662 Sensor: 2.1MP at 108 FPS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the core of the Mars 662M is the Sony IMX662, a 1\/2.8\" back-illuminated monochrome sensor designed for high-speed capture. The camera streams 12-bit data at up to 108 frames per second, allowing you to acquire thousands of frames in a short window to overcome atmospheric turbulence. The 2.1 megapixel resolution is ideal for framing planets like Jupiter and Saturn with a variety of telescope focal lengths, while the 2.9μm pixels provide a good balance of resolution and sensitivity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e54k e- Full Well and Zero Amp Glow\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mars 662M's standout feature is its complete elimination of amplifier glow, resulting in perfectly dark and clean background calibration frames. This non-amp-glow characteristic, combined with a deep 54k e- full well, makes processing easier and produces higher quality final images. The high full well is critical for preventing the bright equatorial zones of Jupiter or the polar caps of Mars from clipping, preserving the full dynamic range of the target.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSuper AR Plus Window: UV \u0026amp; NIR Sensitivity for Advanced Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEquipped with a D21*1.1MM protective window featuring a Super AR Plus multi-layer coating, the Mars 662M offers superb light transmission across a wide spectrum. This advanced coating is optimized for high transmittance from ultraviolet (UV) through near-infrared (NIR). This makes the Mars 662M an exceptional tool for advanced scientific imaging, such as capturing cloud details on Venus in UV or imaging the methane bands of Jupiter and Saturn in NIR.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDDR3 Cache and Dead Pixel Suppression\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlayer One integrates a DDR3 cache into all their planetary cameras, and the Mars 662M is no exception. This buffer ensures stable, high-speed data transmission to your computer, eliminating dropped frames that can ruin an imaging run. The camera also features on-board Dead Pixel Suppression (DPS), which analyzes dark frames to map and correct for abnormal pixels, delivering cleaner raw data before it ever reaches your hard drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMars 662M vs. IMX462 Cameras: A Generational Leap in Planetary Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile cameras based on the previous-generation IMX462 sensor are highly capable, the IMX662 sensor in the Mars 662M represents a significant upgrade. The most critical difference is the full well capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMars 662M (IMX662):\u003c\/strong\u003e The 54k e- full well is roughly 4.5 times larger than its predecessor. This dramatically increases dynamic range, allowing for longer exposures on planets without saturating highlights, which is key for capturing faint moons or cloud features near the bright planetary disk.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIMX462-based Cameras:\u003c\/strong\u003e These cameras typically have a full well of around 12k e-. While excellent for short exposures, they are more prone to clipping bright details, forcing the use of lower gain settings which can impact the signal-to-noise ratio of fainter regions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAmp Glow:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Mars 662M's complete lack of amp glow provides a cleaner, more uniform background than many previous-generation sensors, simplifying dark frame calibration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat makes the Mars 662M's lack of amp glow important for planetary imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmp glow is a faint illumination that appears in the corners of an image sensor during longer exposures. Its absence in the \u003cstrong\u003ePlayer One Mars 662M\u003c\/strong\u003e means your dark frames are perfectly dark. This results in a cleaner, flatter background in your final stacked image, making it easier to pull out low-contrast details without introducing gradients or artifacts during processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the 54k e- full well on the Mars 662M help when imaging Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJupiter has both very bright zones and much dimmer belts and polar regions. The \u003cstrong\u003eMars 662M's\u003c\/strong\u003e large \u003cstrong\u003e54k e- full well\u003c\/strong\u003e prevents the bright equatorial zones from becoming overexposed and \"clipping\" to pure white. This allows you to use a gain setting that captures faint, low-contrast detail in the belts and the Great Red Spot (GRS) without losing data in the brightest areas, resulting in an image with superior dynamic range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use the Player One Mars 662M for imaging in ultraviolet or infrared?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The camera's monochrome IMX662 sensor has native sensitivity into the near-infrared (NIR), and the Super AR Plus protective window is specifically coated for high transmission from UV to NIR. This makes the \u003cstrong\u003eMars 662M\u003c\/strong\u003e an excellent choice for advanced planetary work, such as using an IR-pass filter for methane band imaging of Jupiter or a UV filter to reveal cloud patterns on Venus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the benefit of the DDR3 cache in the Mars 662M?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe onboard DDR3 cache acts as a high-speed buffer for image data. It ensures stable data transfer from the camera to your computer, even if the PC is busy with other tasks. For the user, this means \u003cstrong\u003eno dropped frames\u003c\/strong\u003e during high-speed video capture at \u003cstrong\u003e108 FPS\u003c\/strong\u003e, which is critical for lucky imaging. It also reduces readout noise and allows the camera to perform well even when connected to a slower USB 2.0 port.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Mars 662M suitable for solar imaging in an H-alpha telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the \u003cstrong\u003ePlayer One Mars 662M\u003c\/strong\u003e is an excellent camera for high-resolution solar imaging. Its high frame rate of \u003cstrong\u003e108 FPS\u003c\/strong\u003e is ideal for freezing moments of good seeing to capture fine details in prominences and surface granulation. The monochrome sensor is essential for narrowband H-alpha work, and the complete lack of amp glow ensures a perfectly flat field for revealing subtle surface features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat does HCG mode do on the Mars 662M camera?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHCG (High Conversion Gain) mode automatically activates at a gain setting of 210 on the \u003cstrong\u003eMars 662M\u003c\/strong\u003e. When engaged, it significantly reduces the camera's readout noise without sacrificing dynamic range. This is particularly useful for imaging fainter targets where higher gain is needed to bring out detail, ensuring the signal remains well above the noise floor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSONY IMX662 1\/2.8\" Mono CMOS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1936×1100 (2.1 MP)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.9μm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5.6mm × 3.2mm (6.44mm Diagonal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMax Frame Rate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e108 FPS (at 1936x1100, 10-bit)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShutter Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRolling Shutter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExposure Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e32μs - 2000s\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReadout Noise\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e6.7e- to 0.7e-\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eQE Peak\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e≈91%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFull Well Capacity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e54k e-\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eADC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12-bit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eData Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB 3.0 \/ USB 2.0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdapter Threads\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.25″ \/ M42x0.75\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBack Focal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12.5mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProtective Window\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eD21*1.1MM Super AR Plus Multi-Coated\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e66mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player_One_Mars_662M_Camera_Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/player-one-astronomy.com\/service\/software\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 640 512\" class=\"DAV-img-box\"\u003e\u003cpath fill=\"#0047a7\" d=\"M128 32C92.7 32 64 60.7 64 96l0 256 64 0 0-256 384 0 0 256 64 0 0-256c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64L128 32zM19.2 384C8.6 384 0 392.6 0 403.2C0 445.6 34.4 480 76.8 480l486.4 0c42.4 0 76.8-34.4 76.8-76.8c0-10.6-8.6-19.2-19.2-19.2L19.2 384z\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e \n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Software\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/player-one-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePlayer One 2-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Player One","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51113228468509,"sku":"POA-Mars-662M","price":376.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player-One-Mars-662M-Mono-Camera.png?v=1775182916"},{"product_id":"player-one-mars-m-ii-imx462-mono-planetary-camera","title":"Player One Mars-M II IMX462 Mono Planetary Camera","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2.1 Megapixel Monochrome IMX462 Sensor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2.9μm Pixel Size\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e136 FPS at Full Resolution (10-bit)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e≈91% Peak Quantum Efficiency\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12.5mm Back Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlayer One Mars-M II IMX462 Mono Planetary Camera\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Player One Mars-M II camera centers on the monochrome Sony IMX462 sensor, delivering a full 1944×1096 resolution at up to 136 FPS for high-speed planetary imaging. Its 2.9μm pixels are optimized for resolving fine detail, while a peak Quantum Efficiency of ≈91% and read noise as low as 0.7e ensure that faint signals from planetary moons and atmospheric features are captured cleanly. With a deep 12k e full well, the Mars-M II captures a wide dynamic range in a single frame, preserving highlights on bright targets like Jupiter's Galilean moons and Saturn's rings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe IMX462 Mono Sensor: 136 FPS at 2.1MP\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of the Mars-M II is the 1\/2.8\" Sony IMX462 monochrome sensor, a chip renowned for its sensitivity and speed. The 2.1-megapixel resolution provides enough field to easily center planets while its 2.9μm pixels offer a high-resolution sampling for telescopes with focal lengths common in planetary work, such as SCTs, Maksutovs, and long-focus refractors. Over a USB 3.0 connection, the camera streams 12-bit data at a rate that allows you to capture thousands of frames in minutes, maximizing your chances of freezing moments of perfect seeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHCG Mode and 0.7e Read Noise\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mars-M II features an exceptionally low read noise floor, dropping to just 0.7e at high gain settings. This ultra-low noise is critical for pulling faint details out of the background, especially when imaging lower-contrast targets or using narrowband filters. When the gain is set to 80 or higher, the camera automatically engages High Conversion Gain (HCG) mode. This technology drastically cuts read noise while preserving the full dynamic range you would expect at low gain, giving you clean, low-noise images without sacrificing contrast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e91% QE and Extended UV\/IR Sensitivity\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile its peak QE of ≈91% is impressive, the Mars-M II's true strength lies in its broad spectral response. The sensor is protected by a Super AR Plus coated window that transmits light from the ultraviolet (310nm) deep into the infrared (1100nm). This makes the Mars-M II a powerful tool for advanced scientific imaging. You can capture sharp details on Jupiter and Mars using an IR-pass filter to defeat atmospheric turbulence, or target the methane absorption bands on giant planets with a CH4 filter to reveal high-altitude storms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOnboard DDR3 Cache and Dead Pixel Suppression (DPS)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlayer One integrates a DDR3 cache into all its planetary cameras to ensure data integrity during high-speed capture. This buffer prevents dropped frames by stabilizing data transmission, ensuring every frame you capture is saved to your computer, even on systems with slower hard drives or when using a USB 2.0 connection. The camera also features Dead Pixel Suppression (DPS) technology, which analyzes dark frames to map and correct for abnormal pixels automatically, resulting in cleaner raw data and reducing your post-processing workload.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMars-M II (Mono) vs. Mars-C (Color): The Infrared Advantage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary difference between the Mars-M II and its color sibling, the Mars-C, is the sensor type. While the Mars-C offers the convenience of one-shot-color imaging without a filter wheel, the Mars-M II provides superior raw performance for the dedicated planetary imager.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigher Sensitivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Without a Bayer color filter array, the monochrome sensor of the Mars-M II captures all incoming photons at each pixel, delivering a brighter, more detailed image than its color counterpart.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInfrared Dominance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The key advantage of the Mars-M II is its exceptional performance in near-infrared light. Paired with an IR-pass filter (like an IR685 or IR850), it can cut through atmospheric seeing to produce dramatically sharper images of planetary surfaces and cloud features.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the main advantage of the Player One Mars-M II's mono sensor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary advantage is its exceptional sensitivity in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum. This allows you to use IR-pass filters to significantly reduce the blurring effects of atmospheric turbulence (\"seeing\"), resulting in much sharper images of planets like Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the HCG mode on the Mars-M II camera work?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe High Conversion Gain (HCG) mode automatically activates when the camera's gain setting is 80 or higher. It significantly reduces read noise to as low as \u003cstrong\u003e0.7e\u003c\/strong\u003e while preserving the full dynamic range of the sensor. This gives you the benefit of high-gain sensitivity without the typical noise penalty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the purpose of the DDR3 cache in the Mars-M II?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe onboard DDR3 cache acts as a high-speed buffer. It ensures stable data transmission and prevents dropped frames during high-speed video capture, even if your computer's hard drive has slow write speeds or you are connected via a USB 2.0 port. This guarantees that all captured data is reliably saved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow would the Mars-M II perform for imaging Jupiter with an 8\" SCT?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mars-M II is an excellent match for an 8\" f\/10 SCT. Its \u003cstrong\u003e2.9μm pixels\u003c\/strong\u003e provide ideal image sampling with a 2x Barlow lens. More importantly, its high infrared sensitivity allows you to use an IR-pass filter to cut through poor seeing, dramatically sharpening details in Jupiter's cloud bands and the Great Red Spot (GRS).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use the Player One Mars-M II for imaging methane bands on Saturn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, absolutely. The Mars-M II's strong sensitivity deep into the near-infrared makes it a perfect camera for methane band (CH4) imaging. This technique reveals high-altitude features in the atmospheres of Jupiter and Saturn that are invisible in other wavelengths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eShould I choose the Mars-M II (mono) or the Mars-C (color) camera?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose the \u003cstrong\u003eMars-C\u003c\/strong\u003e for simplicity and a faster workflow, as it captures color images in a single shot. Choose the \u003cstrong\u003eMars-M II\u003c\/strong\u003e if you want the absolute highest resolution and sensitivity. It requires a filter wheel and LRGB filters but offers superior performance, especially for advanced techniques like infrared and ultraviolet imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSONY IMX462 1\/2.8\" CMOS (mono)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTotal Pixels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.1 Mega Pixels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMax Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1944×1096\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.9μm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor Diagonal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e6.5mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5.6mm × 3.2mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMax Frame Rate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e136 FPS (10-bit)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShutter Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRolling shutter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExposure Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e32μs - 2000s\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReadout Noise\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.6e ~ 0.7e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eQE Peak\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e≈91%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFull Well Capacity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12k e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eADC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12-bit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eData Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB 3.0 \/ USB 2.0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdapter Threads\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.25″ \/ M42x0.75\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBack Focal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12.5mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProtective Window\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eD21×1.1mm Super AR Plus Multi-Coated\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e66mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e180g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolution \u0026amp; FPS (USB 3.0)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1944×1096: 136FPS (RAW8) \/ 62.5FPS (RAW16)\u003cbr\u003e1920×1080: 138FPS (RAW8) \/ 63.5FPS (RAW16)\u003cbr\u003e1280×720: 205FPS (RAW8) \/ 94.1FPS (RAW16)\u003cbr\u003e800×600: 245FPS (RAW8) \/ 112.4FPS (RAW16)\u003cbr\u003e640×480: 304FPS (RAW8) \/ 139.3FPS (RAW16)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player_One_Mars-M_II_Camera_Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/player-one-astronomy.com\/service\/software\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 640 512\" class=\"DAV-img-box\"\u003e\u003cpath fill=\"#0047a7\" d=\"M128 32C92.7 32 64 60.7 64 96l0 256 64 0 0-256 384 0 0 256 64 0 0-256c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64L128 32zM19.2 384C8.6 384 0 392.6 0 403.2C0 445.6 34.4 480 76.8 480l486.4 0c42.4 0 76.8-34.4 76.8-76.8c0-10.6-8.6-19.2-19.2-19.2L19.2 384z\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e \n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Software\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/player-one-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePlayer One 2-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Player One","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51113242657053,"sku":"POA-Mars-M-II","price":348.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player-One-Mars-M-II-Mono-Camera.png?v=1775183251"},{"product_id":"player-one-mars-m-imx290-mono-planetary-camera","title":"Player One Mars-M IMX290 Mono Planetary Camera","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSensor: Sony IMX290 1\/2.8\" Mono CMOS\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eResolution: 1944x1096 (2.1 Megapixels)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePixel Size: 2.9µm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMax Frame Rate: 136 FPS (10-bit)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRead Noise: 0.98e (Minimum)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlayer One Mars-M IMX290 Mono Planetary Camera\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Player One Mars-M IMX290 Mono Planetary Camera combines a 2.1 Megapixel Sony IMX290 sensor with 2.9µm pixels, a combination purpose-built for high-resolution lunar and planetary imaging. It achieves a maximum frame rate of 136 FPS at full resolution, while its high-sensitivity design reaches a peak QE of approximately 80% with read noise as low as 0.98e. The 1\/2.8\" CMOS sensor features a 6.5mm diagonal and a full well capacity of 14.6k e, captured through a 12-bit ADC for smooth tonal gradations on bright targets like Jupiter and Saturn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSony IMX290 Sensor: 2.1 MP, 2.9µm Pixels, and ~80% QE\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the core of the Mars-M is the monochrome Sony IMX290 sensor, prized for its high sensitivity and extremely low read noise. Its 2.9µm pixels create a sharp image scale on long focal length Schmidt-Cassegrains and Maksutovs, resolving fine detail in cloud bands and crater rims without requiring aggressive Barlow lenses. As a monochrome camera, it captures significantly more light than its color counterparts, resulting in brighter, higher-contrast images that are essential for lucky imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a peak Quantum Efficiency of ≈80% and read noise that drops to just 0.98e, the Mars-M extracts faint details with minimal noise, even during very short exposures. While its 6.5mm diagonal sensor is optimized for planets, the Moon, and sunspots, its primary trade-off is a smaller field of view, making it less suited for capturing large nebulae or galaxies in a single frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e136 FPS Capture with Onboard DDR3 Cache\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mars-M can stream full-resolution 1944×1096 video at up to 136 FPS in 10-bit mode. This high frame rate is critical for freezing moments of atmospheric stability, allowing you to select only the sharpest frames for stacking. To ensure every one of those frames is captured without corruption, Player One includes an onboard DDR3 cache.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis cache acts as a high-speed buffer, preventing dropped frames that can occur when the host computer's hard drive cannot keep up. It stabilizes data transmission, reduces read noise, and lowers the computational demand on your PC. This makes high-speed capture reliable even on older laptops or when using a USB 2.0 connection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDPS Technology and a D21*1.1MM AR-Coated Window\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mars-M incorporates several features to ensure clean, high-contrast images. Dead Pixel Suppression (DPS) is an onboard technology that analyzes dark frames to map and correct for hot or cold pixels automatically. This correction happens inside the camera before the data is sent to your computer, saving you a post-processing step.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sensor is protected by a D21*1.1MM window with a multi-layer anti-reflection coating (AR Plus), maximizing light transmission and preventing internal reflections. For solar imagers, an adjustable focal plate helps mitigate Newton's rings, a common frustration when imaging through narrowband solar telescopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlayer One Mars-M vs. ZWO ASI290MM: A Head-to-Head Comparison\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth the Mars-M and ZWO's popular ASI290MM camera are built around the same excellent Sony IMX290 monochrome sensor, giving them nearly identical resolution, pixel size, and quantum efficiency. The primary differences lie in the features Player One has engineered around the sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eZWO ASI290MM Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e ZWO offers a mature and extensive software ecosystem, including native support in their ASIAIR devices, which is a significant factor for many imagers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlayer One Mars-M Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Mars-M includes an onboard DDR3 cache, which the standard ASI290MM lacks. This buffer provides more stable data transfer and prevents dropped frames, a critical asset in high-speed planetary work. The Mars-M also specifies a slightly lower minimum read noise (0.98e vs. 1.3e) and features onboard Dead Pixel Suppression (DPS).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the advantage of the Player One Mars-M's monochrome IMX290 sensor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA monochrome sensor is significantly more sensitive than a color sensor because every pixel is used to detect light, rather than being filtered for red, green, or blue. This results in brighter, sharper, and higher-contrast images of the Moon and planets. For color imaging, you can use a separate filter wheel to create superior LRGB composites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the DDR3 cache on the Mars-M camera improve planetary imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe DDR3 cache acts as a buffer to prevent data loss during high-speed video capture. When you're recording at 136 FPS, your computer's hard drive can sometimes lag, causing \"dropped frames.\" The cache stores the data temporarily, ensuring a smooth and stable transfer, so you never lose critical data during a moment of perfect seeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan the Player One Mars-M be used for guiding?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The Player One Mars-M is equipped with a standard ST4 guide port. Its high sensitivity and low read noise make it an excellent autoguider for deep-sky imaging when you are not using it for planetary work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of performance can I expect from the Mars-M on Jupiter with an 8\" f\/10 SCT?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2.9µm pixels of the Mars-M are an excellent match for a typical 8\" f\/10 SCT, providing a well-sampled image scale for Jupiter's cloud bands and Great Red Spot. At this focal length, you can capture detailed video at high frame rates (over 60 FPS) to \"freeze\" atmospheric turbulence, allowing software like AutoStakkert! to produce a sharp final image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Player One Mars-M suitable for imaging solar prominences or sunspots?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. The Mars-M's monochrome sensor is highly sensitive to the H-alpha wavelength used in most dedicated solar telescopes. Its high frame rate is ideal for capturing sharp detail in active regions and prominences. The camera also features an adjustable focal plate to help reduce Newton's rings, a common artifact in solar imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat does the Dead Pixel Suppression (DPS) on the Mars-M camera do?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDPS is a built-in feature that automatically identifies and corrects for defective pixels on the sensor. It analyzes dark frames to create a map of these pixels and then replaces their values with an average of the surrounding pixels during imaging. This provides a cleaner image straight from the camera, reducing the need for manual cosmetic correction in software.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSONY IMX290 1\/2.8\" CMOS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTotal Pixels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.1 Megapixels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMax Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1944×1096\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.9μm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor Diagonal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e6.5mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eImage Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5.6mm × 3.2mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMax Frame Rate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e136 FPS (10bit)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShutter Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRolling shutter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExposure Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e32μs - 2000s\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReadout Noise\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3.2e ~ 0.98e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eQE Peak\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e≈80%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFull Well\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e14.6k e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eADC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 bit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProtective Window\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eD21*1.1MM High Quality AR Plus (Anti Reflection) Multi-Layer Coating\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eData Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB 3.0 \/ USB 2.0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eST4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.25″ \/ M42 x 0.75\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBack Focal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12.5mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e66mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e180g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolution \u0026amp; Frame Rate (USB 3.0)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1944×1096: 136 FPS (RAW8) \/ 62.5 FPS (RAW16)\u003cbr\u003e1920×1080: 138 FPS (RAW8) \/ 63.5 FPS (RAW16)\u003cbr\u003e1280×720: 205 FPS (RAW8) \/ 94.1 FPS (RAW16)\u003cbr\u003e800×600: 245 FPS (RAW8) \/ 112.4 FPS (RAW16)\u003cbr\u003e640×480: 304 FPS (RAW8) \/ 139.3 FPS (RAW16)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player_One_Mars-M_Camera_Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/player-one-astronomy.com\/service\/software\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 640 512\" class=\"DAV-img-box\"\u003e\u003cpath fill=\"#0047a7\" d=\"M128 32C92.7 32 64 60.7 64 96l0 256 64 0 0-256 384 0 0 256 64 0 0-256c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64L128 32zM19.2 384C8.6 384 0 392.6 0 403.2C0 445.6 34.4 480 76.8 480l486.4 0c42.4 0 76.8-34.4 76.8-76.8c0-10.6-8.6-19.2-19.2-19.2L19.2 384z\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e \n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Software\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/player-one-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePlayer One 2-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Player One","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51113269854493,"sku":"POA-Mars-M","price":250.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Player-One-Mars-M-Mono-Camera.png?v=1775183420"}],"url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/collections\/player-one-guide-cameras.oembed","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}