{"title":"SBIG StarChaser Off-Axis Guider Cameras","description":"\u003cp\u003eSBIG StarChaser cameras are off-axis guider cameras that pick a guide star from the main telescope's light path, so guiding sees exactly what the imaging camera sees. The SC-2 fits STF, Aluma and STC cameras, the SC-3 suits the STX series, and the SC-4 the STXL and Aluma AC series.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBundles combine them with AO-8A or AO-X adaptive optics, and adapters connect StarChaser units to STL cameras and AO units.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"sbig-starchaser-sc-2-off-axis-guider-camera-stf-aluma-and-stc-series","title":"SBIG StarChaser SC-2 Off Axis Guider Camera - STF, Aluma and STC series","description":"\u003c!-- more --\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe SBIG StarChaser is the world’s first all-in-one off-axis guider with built-in camera and integrated AO support. Comes complete with MaxIm LT software.\u003ch3\u003eSBIG StarChaser Off-Axis Guider Cameras\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiffraction Limited’s new SBIG StarChaser is the world’s first, all-in-one independent Off-Axis Guiding Camera with Adaptive Optics support. The StarChaser operates independently of the main camera. It combines a pick-off mirror, guider camera, guide port, and Adaptive Optics control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStop wasting time with ruined exposures caused by flexure between the main camera and guider.  Off-axis guiding eliminates this problem by using the same optical path for the main camera and the guider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost off-axis guider assemblies are awkward to use, consume too much back focus, and require you to focus by slipping a camera inside an eyepiece holder.  SBIG pioneered simplified off-axis guiding, with guide sensors built into CCD cameras. Later, we created the self-guiding filter wheel, placing the guide sensor in the light path ahead of photon-robbing narrowband filters. The StarChaser is the next step in this progression – a fully independent guide camera with AO capability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThree Versions Available\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-2 is designed to work with our compact SBIG cameras.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-8a\/\"\u003eAO-8A\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTC-7, STC-428 with \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTF series (except STF-402) with FW8-8300 or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluma series with FW8S-Aluma or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STL cameras with internal filter wheel (requires \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/stl-to-starchaser-adapter\/\"\u003eadapter\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STT cameras with FW8S-STT filter wheel or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-3-LONG is designed to work with large format SBIG cameras with longer backfocus distance.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-x\/\"\u003eAO-X\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTX-16803, STX-16801, STX-9000 with or without FW7-STX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STL cameras with external filter wheel (requires \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/stl-to-starchaser-adapter\/\"\u003eadapter\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluma AC 4040 w\/ FW7-STX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-3-SHORT is designed to work with large format SBIG cameras with shorter backfocus distance.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-x\/\"\u003eAO-X\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eSTXL-11002, STXL-6303, STXL 16200 with FW8S-STXL\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNext-Generation Off-Axis Guiding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser represents our next generation of off-axis guide technology.  It features a high-sensitivity 1.3 megapixel Global Shutter CMOS sensor with 4.8 micron pixels. Unlike competing autoguiders, the StarChaser has a mechanical shutter for easy dark frame correction.  This feature, standard on all SBIG guiders, optimizes sensitivity and eliminates hot pixels that could degrade guiding accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe pick-off mirror position is adjustable by loosening a locking knob and sliding the mirror into or out of the housing. You can avoid vignetting the main sensor while optimizing the light path into the guide sensor.  Once that is set, focus is adjusted simply by turning a second knob.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdaptive Optics Control\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThanks to the SBIG StarChaser series, our renowned Adaptive Optics (AO) technology is now available for virtually our entire camera line! Our AO-X (available separately) bolts onto the front of the StarChaser SC-3.  Our AO-8A (available separately) bolts onto the front of the StarChaser SC-2.  The StarChaser is in turn attached to the front of an SBIG standard filter wheel and camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdaptive Optics technology eliminates guiding errors caused by common mount problems such as stiction, periodic error, and wind loads.  It can even reduce “slow seeing” effects resulting in higher resolution images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThin and Adaptable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SC-2 is just 0.800″ (20.3 mm) thick.  When attaching to a filter wheel the existing adapter plate (0.147″ \/ 3.7 mm thick) would normally be moved from the filter wheel onto the front of the SC-2. When attaching an AO-8A to the front of the SC-2, the adapter plate is not used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SC-3 is just 0.870″ (22.1 mm) thick. When attaching to a filter wheel the existing plate (0.200″ \/ 5.1 mm thick) would normally be moved from the filter wheel onto the front of the StarChaser.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease note that smaller diameter adapter plates may vignette the guide sensor.  A variety of optional adapter plates are \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/mechanical-adapters\/\"\u003eavailable\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHighly Adjustable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach StarChaser has a range of adjustment for the mirror position and the camera’s backfocus distance.  The mirror position is set to avoid vignetting the main sensor and the guide sensor.  The focus adjustment allows you to parfocalize the StarChaser’s guide sensor with the main camera’s sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree StarChaser models are available.  The SC-2 accommodates our compact cameras such as STC-7 and Aluma CCD.  The SC-3-LONG accommodates large format cameras with long backfocus distance, such as the STX-16803 with FW7-STX.  The SC-3-SHORT was designed to support our new large format CMOS cameras, which have much shorter backfocus distance than our legacy CCD models.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser pickoff mirror can be adjusted to accommodate different sensors sizes, and it also has an impact on the focus range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the table below, \u003cstrong\u003eMirror Offset Adjustment Range\u003c\/strong\u003e gives the distance from the inner edge of the guide sensor to the optical center.  To avoid vignetting, the mirror should be positioned so it clears the edge of the main sensor.  At faster f\/ratios the separation may need to be increased.  In some optical systems if the mirror is pulled all the way back then the guide sensor may be vignetted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Retracted\u003c\/strong\u003e gives the focus range of the StarChaser model when the mirror is pulled back as far away from the main sensor as possible. This distance is measured from the front of the StarChaser (without any adapters) to the focal plane of the main camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Extended \u003c\/strong\u003egives the focus range of the StarChaser model when the mirror is adjusted as far as possible towards the main optical axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cth\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eModel (Recommended Camera Series)\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMirror Offset Adjustment Range\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Retracted\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Extended\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctbody class=\"row-hover\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-2 (STC, STF, Aluma CCD)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.40\" to 0.75\" (10.2 mm to 19.1 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.73\" to 2.61\" (43.9 mm to 66.3 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.07\" to 2.96\" (52.6 mm to 75.2 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-3-LONG (STX)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.33\" to 1.08\" (8.4 mm to 27.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.23\" to 3.48\" (56.6 mm to 88.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.97\" to 4.23\" (75.4 mm to 107.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-3-SHORT (Aluma AC, STXL)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.66\" to 0.88\" (16.8 mm to 22.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.51\" to 2.84\" (33.4 mm to 72.1 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.73\" to 3.06\" (43.9 mm to 77.7 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003eShowing 1 to 3 of 3 entries\u003c!-- #tablepress-10 from cache --\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSupports Your SBIG Investment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur renowned MaxIm LT software is included, providing integrated control of your StarChaser and SBIG main camera.  We also provide API interfaces for third-party software running under Windows, MacOS, or Linux.  An ASCOM standard camera interface is included. ASCOM does not currently support Adaptive Optics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser series support all currently-manufactured SBIG models, and many of the legacy models.  This includes STC, Aluma AC, Aluma CCD, STX, STXL, STF-1603, STF-3200, ST-1603, ST-3200, and STL research series cameras (via available adapter).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarChasers support AO-8A (SC-2) and AO-X (SC-3) Adaptive Optics units.  This brings modern AO capability to many models that previously could not support AO operation.  All guiding and AO operations take place independently of the main camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser requires a 12V power supply (included) and a USB 2.0 mini cable (6 foot \/ 2 meter cable included).  The StarChaser can send guider commands to the telescope either via ASCOM PulseGuide or an “ST-4” style tracking interface cable (included).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv data-custom-tab\u003e\n\u003cp data-custom-tab-title\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTemperature Regulation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eOS Compatibility\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eWindows 7, 8, 10 x86\/x64, MacOS 10.14 \"Mojave\" x86 binaries, Ubuntu 18.04 LTS x64, Raspbian Buster armhf, Ubuntu MATE arm64\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eComputer Interface\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eUSB 2.0 Mini\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFull Frame Download\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.2 sec\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAdaptive Optics Option\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eWorks with AO-X (cable required)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePixel Digitization Rate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e72 megapixels \/ second\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eA\/D Converter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e10 bits\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.9 lb \/ 400 g\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRead Noise\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 e- typical\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePower\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e12V, 300 mA\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eExposure\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.5 ns to 59.26 s\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.8 μm\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTotal Pixels\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,310,720 pixels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSensor Size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.18 mm x 4.95 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eShutter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eElectronic Global Shutter plus Mechanical Dark Frame Shutter\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eImaging Sensor\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAstronomical CMOS 1.3 Megapixel\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFilter Wheel Option\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttaches to FW7-STX and FW8S-STXL filter wheels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDark Current e\/p\/s at 0 C\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 e-\/p\/s typical at 20C\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eImaging \/ Pixel Array\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e1280 x 1024 pixels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFull Well Capacity\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e10,000 e-\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBackfocus\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAdds 0.87\" (22.1 mm)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv data-custom-tab\u003e\n\u003cp data-custom-tab-title\u003eDownloads\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDocumentation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eProduct overview\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct overview of StarChaser guide cameras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/t\/7\/assets\/description_image_StarChaserOverview.pdf?v=1684345420\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eUser Manual\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUser’s manual for installing and operating the StarChaser SC-3\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/t\/7\/assets\/description_image_StarChaser_User_Manual.pdf?v=1684345428\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSoftware\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDrivers and Camera Configuration Utility\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarChaser uses the DL Imaging driver package. Download the latest drivers and camera configuration utility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/down\/SetupDLAPI.exe\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eMaxIm LT Software\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamera owners can request a MaxIm LT license here (camera serial number required):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/maxim-lt-registration\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo get started immediately, request the full MaxIm DL Pro demo version here (click Demo tab):  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/maxim-dl\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cp\u003eOnce you receive your MaxIm LT license, simply replace your demo license using Help menu Enter License. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMacOS and Linux Drivers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable by request.  Please post in our support forum, Aluma section: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/forum.diffractionlimited.com\/forums\/aluma-series.49\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSoftware Development Kit\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable by request.  Please post in our support forum, Aluma section: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/forum.diffractionlimited.com\/forums\/aluma-series.49\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SBIG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44967712555293,"sku":"DL-SC-2","price":1429.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/SBIG-StarChaser-SC-2-Off-Axis-Guider-Camera-STF-Aluma-and-STC-series-1__67113.1600282391.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684345540"},{"product_id":"sbig-starchaser-sc-2-ao-8a-bundle","title":"SBIG StarChaser SC-2 \/ AO-8A Bundle","description":"\u003c!-- more --\u003e#N\/A","brand":"SBIG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44967712588061,"sku":"DL-SC2-AO8-PACK","price":3387.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"sbig-starchaser-sc-3-off-axis-guider-camera-stx-series","title":"SBIG StarChaser SC-3 Off Axis Guider Camera - STX series","description":"\u003c!-- more --\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe SBIG StarChaser is the world’s first all-in-one off-axis guider with built-in camera and integrated AO support. Comes complete with MaxIm LT software.\u003ch3\u003eSBIG StarChaser Off-Axis Guider Cameras\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiffraction Limited’s new SBIG StarChaser is the world’s first, all-in-one independent Off-Axis Guiding Camera with Adaptive Optics support. The StarChaser operates independently of the main camera. It combines a pick-off mirror, guider camera, guide port, and Adaptive Optics control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStop wasting time with ruined exposures caused by flexure between the main camera and guider.  Off-axis guiding eliminates this problem by using the same optical path for the main camera and the guider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost off-axis guider assemblies are awkward to use, consume too much back focus, and require you to focus by slipping a camera inside an eyepiece holder.  SBIG pioneered simplified off-axis guiding, with guide sensors built into CCD cameras. Later, we created the self-guiding filter wheel, placing the guide sensor in the light path ahead of photon-robbing narrowband filters. The StarChaser is the next step in this progression – a fully independent guide camera with AO capability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThree Versions Available\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-2 is designed to work with our compact SBIG cameras.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-8a\/\"\u003eAO-8A\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTC-7, STC-428 with \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTF series (except STF-402) with FW8-8300 or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluma series with FW8S-Aluma or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STL cameras with internal filter wheel (requires \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/stl-to-starchaser-adapter\/\"\u003eadapter\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STT cameras with FW8S-STT filter wheel or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-3-LONG is designed to work with large format SBIG cameras with longer backfocus distance.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-x\/\"\u003eAO-X\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTX-16803, STX-16801, STX-9000 with or without FW7-STX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STL cameras with external filter wheel (requires \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/stl-to-starchaser-adapter\/\"\u003eadapter\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluma AC 4040 w\/ FW7-STX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-3-SHORT is designed to work with large format SBIG cameras with shorter backfocus distance.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-x\/\"\u003eAO-X\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eSTXL-11002, STXL-6303, STXL 16200 with FW8S-STXL\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNext-Generation Off-Axis Guiding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser represents our next generation of off-axis guide technology.  It features a high-sensitivity 1.3 megapixel Global Shutter CMOS sensor with 4.8 micron pixels. Unlike competing autoguiders, the StarChaser has a mechanical shutter for easy dark frame correction.  This feature, standard on all SBIG guiders, optimizes sensitivity and eliminates hot pixels that could degrade guiding accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe pick-off mirror position is adjustable by loosening a locking knob and sliding the mirror into or out of the housing. You can avoid vignetting the main sensor while optimizing the light path into the guide sensor.  Once that is set, focus is adjusted simply by turning a second knob.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdaptive Optics Control\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThanks to the SBIG StarChaser series, our renowned Adaptive Optics (AO) technology is now available for virtually our entire camera line! Our AO-X (available separately) bolts onto the front of the StarChaser SC-3.  Our AO-8A (available separately) bolts onto the front of the StarChaser SC-2.  The StarChaser is in turn attached to the front of an SBIG standard filter wheel and camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdaptive Optics technology eliminates guiding errors caused by common mount problems such as stiction, periodic error, and wind loads.  It can even reduce “slow seeing” effects resulting in higher resolution images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThin and Adaptable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SC-2 is just 0.800″ (20.3 mm) thick.  When attaching to a filter wheel the existing adapter plate (0.147″ \/ 3.7 mm thick) would normally be moved from the filter wheel onto the front of the SC-2. When attaching an AO-8A to the front of the SC-2, the adapter plate is not used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SC-3 is just 0.870″ (22.1 mm) thick. When attaching to a filter wheel the existing plate (0.200″ \/ 5.1 mm thick) would normally be moved from the filter wheel onto the front of the StarChaser.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease note that smaller diameter adapter plates may vignette the guide sensor.  A variety of optional adapter plates are \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/mechanical-adapters\/\"\u003eavailable\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHighly Adjustable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach StarChaser has a range of adjustment for the mirror position and the camera’s backfocus distance.  The mirror position is set to avoid vignetting the main sensor and the guide sensor.  The focus adjustment allows you to parfocalize the StarChaser’s guide sensor with the main camera’s sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree StarChaser models are available.  The SC-2 accommodates our compact cameras such as STC-7 and Aluma CCD.  The SC-3-LONG accommodates large format cameras with long backfocus distance, such as the STX-16803 with FW7-STX.  The SC-3-SHORT was designed to support our new large format CMOS cameras, which have much shorter backfocus distance than our legacy CCD models.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser pickoff mirror can be adjusted to accommodate different sensors sizes, and it also has an impact on the focus range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the table below, \u003cstrong\u003eMirror Offset Adjustment Range\u003c\/strong\u003e gives the distance from the inner edge of the guide sensor to the optical center.  To avoid vignetting, the mirror should be positioned so it clears the edge of the main sensor.  At faster f\/ratios the separation may need to be increased.  In some optical systems if the mirror is pulled all the way back then the guide sensor may be vignetted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Retracted\u003c\/strong\u003e gives the focus range of the StarChaser model when the mirror is pulled back as far away from the main sensor as possible. This distance is measured from the front of the StarChaser (without any adapters) to the focal plane of the main camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Extended \u003c\/strong\u003egives the focus range of the StarChaser model when the mirror is adjusted as far as possible towards the main optical axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cth\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eModel (Recommended Camera Series)\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMirror Offset Adjustment Range\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Retracted\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Extended\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctbody class=\"row-hover\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-2 (STC, STF, Aluma CCD)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.40\" to 0.75\" (10.2 mm to 19.1 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.73\" to 2.61\" (43.9 mm to 66.3 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.07\" to 2.96\" (52.6 mm to 75.2 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-3-LONG (STX)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.33\" to 1.08\" (8.4 mm to 27.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.23\" to 3.48\" (56.6 mm to 88.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.97\" to 4.23\" (75.4 mm to 107.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-3-SHORT (Aluma AC, STXL)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.66\" to 0.88\" (16.8 mm to 22.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.51\" to 2.84\" (33.4 mm to 72.1 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.73\" to 3.06\" (43.9 mm to 77.7 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003eShowing 1 to 3 of 3 entries\u003c!-- #tablepress-10 from cache --\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSupports Your SBIG Investment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur renowned MaxIm LT software is included, providing integrated control of your StarChaser and SBIG main camera.  We also provide API interfaces for third-party software running under Windows, MacOS, or Linux.  An ASCOM standard camera interface is included. ASCOM does not currently support Adaptive Optics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser series support all currently-manufactured SBIG models, and many of the legacy models.  This includes STC, Aluma AC, Aluma CCD, STX, STXL, STF-1603, STF-3200, ST-1603, ST-3200, and STL research series cameras (via available adapter).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarChasers support AO-8A (SC-2) and AO-X (SC-3) Adaptive Optics units.  This brings modern AO capability to many models that previously could not support AO operation.  All guiding and AO operations take place independently of the main camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser requires a 12V power supply (included) and a USB 2.0 mini cable (6 foot \/ 2 meter cable included).  The StarChaser can send guider commands to the telescope either via ASCOM PulseGuide or an “ST-4” style tracking interface cable (included).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv data-custom-tab\u003e\n\u003cp data-custom-tab-title\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTemperature Regulation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eOS Compatibility\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eWindows 7, 8, 10 x86\/x64, MacOS 10.14 \"Mojave\" x86 binaries, Ubuntu 18.04 LTS x64, Raspbian Buster armhf, Ubuntu MATE arm64\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eComputer Interface\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eUSB 2.0 Mini\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFull Frame Download\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.2 sec\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAdaptive Optics Option\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eWorks with AO-X (cable required)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePixel Digitization Rate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e72 megapixels \/ second\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eA\/D Converter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e10 bits\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.9 lb \/ 400 g\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRead Noise\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 e- typical\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePower\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e12V, 300 mA\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eExposure\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.5 ns to 59.26 s\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.8 μm\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTotal Pixels\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,310,720 pixels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSensor Size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.18 mm x 4.95 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eShutter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eElectronic Global Shutter plus Mechanical Dark Frame Shutter\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eImaging Sensor\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAstronomical CMOS 1.3 Megapixel\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFilter Wheel Option\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttaches to FW7-STX and FW8S-STXL filter wheels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDark Current e\/p\/s at 0 C\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 e-\/p\/s typical at 20C\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eImaging \/ Pixel Array\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e1280 x 1024 pixels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFull Well Capacity\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e10,000 e-\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBackfocus\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAdds 0.87\" (22.1 mm)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv data-custom-tab\u003e\n\u003cp data-custom-tab-title\u003eDownloads\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDocumentation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eProduct overview\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct overview of StarChaser guide cameras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/t\/7\/assets\/description_image_StarChaserOverview.pdf?v=1684345420\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eUser Manual\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUser’s manual for installing and operating the StarChaser SC-3\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/t\/7\/assets\/description_image_StarChaser_User_Manual.pdf?v=1684345428\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSoftware\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDrivers and Camera Configuration Utility\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarChaser uses the DL Imaging driver package. Download the latest drivers and camera configuration utility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/down\/SetupDLAPI.exe\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eMaxIm LT Software\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamera owners can request a MaxIm LT license here (camera serial number required):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/maxim-lt-registration\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo get started immediately, request the full MaxIm DL Pro demo version here (click Demo tab):  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/maxim-dl\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cp\u003eOnce you receive your MaxIm LT license, simply replace your demo license using Help menu Enter License. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMacOS and Linux Drivers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable by request.  Please post in our support forum, Aluma section: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/forum.diffractionlimited.com\/forums\/aluma-series.49\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSoftware Development Kit\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable by request.  Please post in our support forum, Aluma section: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/forum.diffractionlimited.com\/forums\/aluma-series.49\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SBIG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44967712653597,"sku":"DL-SC-3","price":1849.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/SBIG-StarChaser-SC-3-Off-Axis-Guider-Camera-STX-series-1__27628.1600282392.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684345543"},{"product_id":"sbig-starchaser-sc-3-ao-x-bundle","title":"SBIG StarChaser SC-3 \/ AO-X Bundle","description":"\u003c!-- more --\u003e#N\/A","brand":"SBIG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44967712719133,"sku":"DL-SC3-AOX-PACK","price":5207.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"sbig-starchaser-sc-4-off-axis-guider-camera-stxl-and-aluma-ac-series","title":"SBIG StarChaser SC-4 Off Axis Guider Camera - STXL  and Aluma AC series","description":"\u003c!-- more --\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe SBIG StarChaser is the world’s first all-in-one off-axis guider with built-in camera and integrated AO support. Comes complete with MaxIm LT software.\u003ch3\u003eSBIG StarChaser Off-Axis Guider Cameras\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiffraction Limited’s new SBIG StarChaser is the world’s first, all-in-one independent Off-Axis Guiding Camera with Adaptive Optics support. The StarChaser operates independently of the main camera. It combines a pick-off mirror, guider camera, guide port, and Adaptive Optics control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStop wasting time with ruined exposures caused by flexure between the main camera and guider.  Off-axis guiding eliminates this problem by using the same optical path for the main camera and the guider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost off-axis guider assemblies are awkward to use, consume too much back focus, and require you to focus by slipping a camera inside an eyepiece holder.  SBIG pioneered simplified off-axis guiding, with guide sensors built into CCD cameras. Later, we created the self-guiding filter wheel, placing the guide sensor in the light path ahead of photon-robbing narrowband filters. The StarChaser is the next step in this progression – a fully independent guide camera with AO capability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThree Versions Available\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-2 is designed to work with our compact SBIG cameras.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-8a\/\"\u003eAO-8A\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTC-7, STC-428 with \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTF series (except STF-402) with FW8-8300 or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluma series with FW8S-Aluma or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STL cameras with internal filter wheel (requires \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/stl-to-starchaser-adapter\/\"\u003eadapter\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STT cameras with FW8S-STT filter wheel or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/filter-wheel-spacer\/\"\u003eFilter Wheel Spacer\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-3-LONG is designed to work with large format SBIG cameras with longer backfocus distance.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-x\/\"\u003eAO-X\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSTX-16803, STX-16801, STX-9000 with or without FW7-STX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegacy STL cameras with external filter wheel (requires \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/stl-to-starchaser-adapter\/\"\u003eadapter\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluma AC 4040 w\/ FW7-STX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSC-3-SHORT is designed to work with large format SBIG cameras with shorter backfocus distance.  It supports the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/ao-x\/\"\u003eAO-X\u003c\/a\u003e adaptive optics unit.  Supported cameras include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eSTXL-11002, STXL-6303, STXL 16200 with FW8S-STXL\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNext-Generation Off-Axis Guiding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser represents our next generation of off-axis guide technology.  It features a high-sensitivity 1.3 megapixel Global Shutter CMOS sensor with 4.8 micron pixels. Unlike competing autoguiders, the StarChaser has a mechanical shutter for easy dark frame correction.  This feature, standard on all SBIG guiders, optimizes sensitivity and eliminates hot pixels that could degrade guiding accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe pick-off mirror position is adjustable by loosening a locking knob and sliding the mirror into or out of the housing. You can avoid vignetting the main sensor while optimizing the light path into the guide sensor.  Once that is set, focus is adjusted simply by turning a second knob.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdaptive Optics Control\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThanks to the SBIG StarChaser series, our renowned Adaptive Optics (AO) technology is now available for virtually our entire camera line! Our AO-X (available separately) bolts onto the front of the StarChaser SC-3.  Our AO-8A (available separately) bolts onto the front of the StarChaser SC-2.  The StarChaser is in turn attached to the front of an SBIG standard filter wheel and camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdaptive Optics technology eliminates guiding errors caused by common mount problems such as stiction, periodic error, and wind loads.  It can even reduce “slow seeing” effects resulting in higher resolution images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThin and Adaptable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SC-2 is just 0.800″ (20.3 mm) thick.  When attaching to a filter wheel the existing adapter plate (0.147″ \/ 3.7 mm thick) would normally be moved from the filter wheel onto the front of the SC-2. When attaching an AO-8A to the front of the SC-2, the adapter plate is not used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SC-3 is just 0.870″ (22.1 mm) thick. When attaching to a filter wheel the existing plate (0.200″ \/ 5.1 mm thick) would normally be moved from the filter wheel onto the front of the StarChaser.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease note that smaller diameter adapter plates may vignette the guide sensor.  A variety of optional adapter plates are \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/mechanical-adapters\/\"\u003eavailable\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHighly Adjustable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach StarChaser has a range of adjustment for the mirror position and the camera’s backfocus distance.  The mirror position is set to avoid vignetting the main sensor and the guide sensor.  The focus adjustment allows you to parfocalize the StarChaser’s guide sensor with the main camera’s sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree StarChaser models are available.  The SC-2 accommodates our compact cameras such as STC-7 and Aluma CCD.  The SC-3-LONG accommodates large format cameras with long backfocus distance, such as the STX-16803 with FW7-STX.  The SC-3-SHORT was designed to support our new large format CMOS cameras, which have much shorter backfocus distance than our legacy CCD models.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser pickoff mirror can be adjusted to accommodate different sensors sizes, and it also has an impact on the focus range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the table below, \u003cstrong\u003eMirror Offset Adjustment Range\u003c\/strong\u003e gives the distance from the inner edge of the guide sensor to the optical center.  To avoid vignetting, the mirror should be positioned so it clears the edge of the main sensor.  At faster f\/ratios the separation may need to be increased.  In some optical systems if the mirror is pulled all the way back then the guide sensor may be vignetted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Retracted\u003c\/strong\u003e gives the focus range of the StarChaser model when the mirror is pulled back as far away from the main sensor as possible. This distance is measured from the front of the StarChaser (without any adapters) to the focal plane of the main camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Extended \u003c\/strong\u003egives the focus range of the StarChaser model when the mirror is adjusted as far as possible towards the main optical axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cth\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eModel (Recommended Camera Series)\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMirror Offset Adjustment Range\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Retracted\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBack Focus Range, Mirror Extended\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctbody class=\"row-hover\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-2 (STC, STF, Aluma CCD)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.40\" to 0.75\" (10.2 mm to 19.1 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.73\" to 2.61\" (43.9 mm to 66.3 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.07\" to 2.96\" (52.6 mm to 75.2 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-3-LONG (STX)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.33\" to 1.08\" (8.4 mm to 27.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.23\" to 3.48\" (56.6 mm to 88.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.97\" to 4.23\" (75.4 mm to 107.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarChaser SC-3-SHORT (Aluma AC, STXL)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.66\" to 0.88\" (16.8 mm to 22.4 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.51\" to 2.84\" (33.4 mm to 72.1 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.73\" to 3.06\" (43.9 mm to 77.7 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003eShowing 1 to 3 of 3 entries\u003c!-- #tablepress-10 from cache --\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSupports Your SBIG Investment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur renowned MaxIm LT software is included, providing integrated control of your StarChaser and SBIG main camera.  We also provide API interfaces for third-party software running under Windows, MacOS, or Linux.  An ASCOM standard camera interface is included. ASCOM does not currently support Adaptive Optics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser series support all currently-manufactured SBIG models, and many of the legacy models.  This includes STC, Aluma AC, Aluma CCD, STX, STXL, STF-1603, STF-3200, ST-1603, ST-3200, and STL research series cameras (via available adapter).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarChasers support AO-8A (SC-2) and AO-X (SC-3) Adaptive Optics units.  This brings modern AO capability to many models that previously could not support AO operation.  All guiding and AO operations take place independently of the main camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StarChaser requires a 12V power supply (included) and a USB 2.0 mini cable (6 foot \/ 2 meter cable included).  The StarChaser can send guider commands to the telescope either via ASCOM PulseGuide or an “ST-4” style tracking interface cable (included).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv data-custom-tab\u003e\n\u003cp data-custom-tab-title\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTemperature Regulation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eOS Compatibility\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eWindows 7, 8, 10 x86\/x64, MacOS 10.14 \"Mojave\" x86 binaries, Ubuntu 18.04 LTS x64, Raspbian Buster armhf, Ubuntu MATE arm64\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eComputer Interface\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eUSB 2.0 Mini\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFull Frame Download\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.2 sec\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAdaptive Optics Option\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eWorks with AO-X (cable required)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePixel Digitization Rate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e72 megapixels \/ second\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eA\/D Converter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e10 bits\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.9 lb \/ 400 g\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRead Noise\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 e- typical\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePower\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e12V, 300 mA\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eExposure\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.5 ns to 59.26 s\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePixel Size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.8 μm\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTotal Pixels\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,310,720 pixels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSensor Size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.18 mm x 4.95 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eShutter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eElectronic Global Shutter plus Mechanical Dark Frame Shutter\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eImaging Sensor\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAstronomical CMOS 1.3 Megapixel\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFilter Wheel Option\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttaches to FW7-STX and FW8S-STXL filter wheels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDark Current e\/p\/s at 0 C\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 e-\/p\/s typical at 20C\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eImaging \/ Pixel Array\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e1280 x 1024 pixels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFull Well Capacity\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003e10,000 e-\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBackfocus\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cp\u003eAdds 0.87\" (22.1 mm)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv data-custom-tab\u003e\n\u003cp data-custom-tab-title\u003eDownloads\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDocumentation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eProduct overview\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct overview of StarChaser guide cameras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/t\/7\/assets\/description_image_StarChaserOverview.pdf?v=1684345420\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eUser Manual\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUser’s manual for installing and operating the StarChaser SC-3\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/t\/7\/assets\/description_image_StarChaser_User_Manual.pdf?v=1684345428\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSoftware\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDrivers and Camera Configuration Utility\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarChaser uses the DL Imaging driver package. Download the latest drivers and camera configuration utility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/down\/SetupDLAPI.exe\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eMaxIm LT Software\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamera owners can request a MaxIm LT license here (camera serial number required):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/maxim-lt-registration\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo get started immediately, request the full MaxIm DL Pro demo version here (click Demo tab):  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/maxim-dl\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cp\u003eOnce you receive your MaxIm LT license, simply replace your demo license using Help menu Enter License. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMacOS and Linux Drivers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable by request.  Please post in our support forum, Aluma section: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/forum.diffractionlimited.com\/forums\/aluma-series.49\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSoftware Development Kit\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable by request.  Please post in our support forum, Aluma section: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/forum.diffractionlimited.com\/forums\/aluma-series.49\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLink \u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SBIG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44967712784669,"sku":"DL-SC-4","price":1849.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/SBIG-StarChaser-SC-4-Off-Axis-Guider-Camera-STXL-and-Aluma-AC-series-1__46261.1600282392.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684345584"},{"product_id":"sbig-starchaser-sc-4-ao-x-bundle","title":"SBIG StarChaser SC-4\/ AO-X Bundle","description":"\u003c!-- more --\u003e#N\/A","brand":"SBIG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44967712850205,"sku":"DL-SC4-AOX-PACK","price":4738.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"sbig-stl-to-starchaser-adapter","title":"SBIG STL to StarChaser Adapter","description":"\u003c!-- more --\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eAttach a modern \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/sc-2\/\"\u003eStarChaser SC-2\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/diffractionlimited.com\/product\/sc-3\/\"\u003eSBIG StarChaser SC-3\u003c\/a\u003e off-axis guide camera to your trusty SBIG STL Research Series camera.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SBIG","offers":[{"title":"SC-2 Adapter","offer_id":44967713145117,"sku":"DL-ACC08","price":169.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"SC-3 Adapter","offer_id":44967713177885,"sku":"DL-ACC10","price":169.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/SBIG-STL-to-StarChaser-Adapter-2__96439.1600282394.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684345591"},{"product_id":"sbig-starchaser-to-ao-x-ao-8t-adapter-cable","title":"SBIG StarChaser to AO-X\/AO-8T Adapter Cable","description":"\u003c!-- more --\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eConnects a StarChaser SC-3 to an AO-X.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SBIG","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44967713374493,"sku":"DL-11044","price":127.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}]}],"url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/collections\/sbig-starchaser-off-axis-guider-cameras.oembed","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}