Does the SVBONY SC311 Pro support live stacking in the app?
No, the SvbonyAstroCam app does not perform live stacking. The SC311 Pro is designed to capture individual 12-bit RAW FITS files to the internal TF card. For stacking, you must transfer these files to a computer and use dedicated astronomy software like DeepSkyStacker, Siril, or PixInsight.
What kind of mount do I need for the SVBONY SC311 Pro?
For short exposures of the Moon and planets, any telescope will work. However, to use the camera's 30-second long exposure capability for deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula (M42), you will need a motorized equatorial mount or an alt-azimuth mount with tracking (such as a tracking GoTo Dobsonian) to prevent star trails.
How do I get the FITS files from the SVBONY SC311 Pro to my computer?
There are two primary methods. You can either use the SvbonyAstroCam app to download the FITS files from the camera to your phone over WiFi and then transfer them to your computer, or you can power off the camera, remove the TF card, and use a standard card reader to copy the files directly to your computer.
Can I charge the SVBONY SC311 Pro while using it?
Yes. The USB Type-C port can be used for both charging and external power. The camera runs on external power (power bank or computer) through this port, so a USB power bank can keep it going when the internal 2500 mAh battery runs low.
What is the difference between the FITS files on the card and the JPEGs on my phone?
FITS files are 12-bit uncompressed RAW data directly from the sensor, containing the maximum amount of signal and color information for post-processing. JPEG files are compressed, automatically stretched images saved to your phone. JPEGs are great for quick viewing and sharing, but FITS files are essential for stacking and serious image editing.
Will the SVBONY SC311 Pro fit my telescope's 1.25" focuser?
Yes. The camera comes with a standard 1.25" nosepiece that fits any standard 1.25" focuser, diagonal, or Barlow lens. It also includes CS and C-mount adapters, allowing it to be used with compatible video lenses for all-sky or wide-field imaging.
Can I use the SVBONY SC311 Pro to view or image the Sun?
Absolutely not without a proper, certified solar filter that covers the front of your telescope. Pointing any telescope at the Sun without a certified front-aperture solar filter can destroy the camera sensor and cause permanent eye damage. The camera's built-in UV/IR cut filter is not a solar filter and provides no protection.
What are the main differences between the SVBONY SC311 Pro and the original SC311?
The SC311 Pro offers several major upgrades over the older model. The most important are:
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Longer Exposures: 30 seconds on the Pro vs. 5 seconds on the original.
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RAW FITS Output: The Pro saves 12-bit FITS files for processing; the original saved only JPEG.
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New App: The Pro uses the new SvbonyAstroCam app with improved color processing.
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Internal Antenna: A more streamlined design without the external antenna of the original.
