What makes the ZWO ASI585MC Pro a good hybrid planetary and deep-sky camera?
The ASI585MC Pro is a strong hybrid because its specifications serve both disciplines. The 2.9µm pixels and 47 FPS frame rate are ideal for high-resolution lucky imaging of planets. For deep-sky objects, the 91% QE, 0.9e read noise, and regulated TEC cooling allow for the capture of clean, high-sensitivity, long-exposure images.
How should I set up the ASI585MC Pro for imaging Jupiter with an 8" f/10 SCT?
For planetary imaging, the ideal focal ratio is typically 5 to 7 times the camera's pixel size. With the ASI585MC Pro's 2.9µm pixels, your target focal ratio is between f/14.5 and f/20.3. On an f/10 SCT, using a 1.5x or 2x Barlow lens will place you in this optimal range, allowing you to resolve fine details in Jupiter's cloud bands under good seeing conditions.
Can the ASI585MC Pro capture the Orion Nebula (M42) without blowing out the Trapezium stars?
Yes. The camera's 47Ke full well capacity provides significant dynamic range. To capture both the faint outer nebulosity of M42 and the bright Trapezium core, you would use an HDR (High Dynamic Range) imaging technique. This involves taking a series of short exposures to capture the core without saturation and blending them with longer exposures that reveal the faint outer regions.
Why does the ZWO ASI585MC Pro have a 512MB DDR3 buffer?
The 512MB DDR3 buffer acts as a temporary, high-speed memory cache for image data before it's transferred to the computer via USB 3.0. This is crucial at high frame rates like 47 FPS, as it prevents data loss (dropped frames) if the host computer's USB bus is momentarily busy with other tasks. It ensures a stable and reliable data transfer.
Do I need a separate UV/IR cut filter with the ASI585MC Pro?
Yes. The protective window on the ASI585MC Pro is AR-coated but does not block ultraviolet or infrared light. For correct color balance on broadband targets like galaxies and stars, a separate UV/IR cut (or Luminance) filter is required to prevent star bloat and ensure focus across the visual spectrum.
If I only image planets, is the ASI585MC Pro still the right choice over the uncooled ASI585MC?
For strictly planetary imaging, where exposures are very short, the uncooled ASI585MC is often sufficient and more cost-effective. Thermal noise is not a significant factor in short exposures. The primary reason to choose the ASI585MC Pro is if you plan to do any long-exposure deep-sky imaging, where its cooling system is essential for clean images.
