Player One Artemis-M Pro Mono IMX492 Cooled Astrophotography Camera

IMX492: 47MP 12-bit Mode vs. 11.7MP 14-bit Mode

The Artemis-M Pro is built around the unique capabilities of the Sony IMX492 sensor, which offers two distinct, hardware-level operating modes. In its native BIN1 mode, you get the full 47 MP resolution (8288x5648) with small 2.315μm pixels and a 12-bit ADC, ideal for high-resolution imaging on short focal length refractors. Switch to hardware BIN2 mode, and the camera transforms, delivering an 11.7 MP image (4144x2824) with large 4.63μm pixels, an expanded 14-bit ADC, and a massive 65.8Ke full well capacity for maximum dynamic range on long exposures.

• BIN1 Mode (High Resolution): Captures 47 megapixels with 2.315μm pixels, a full well of 18.6Ke, and 12-bit ADC depth. This mode is best for capturing fine detail in galaxies and planetary nebulae with well-corrected, fast optics.
• BIN2 Mode (High Dynamic Range): Combines pixels to create a 4.63μm pixel size, increasing the full well to 65.8Ke and extending the ADC to 14-bit. Read noise drops to as low as 1.2e, making this the preferred mode for faint, broadband targets and narrowband imaging.

2-Stage TEC Cooling: A 40°C Delta-T System

For long-exposure astrophotography, thermal noise is the primary obstacle to a clean signal. The Artemis-M Pro integrates a 2-stage thermoelectric cooling (TEC) system that achieves a stable temperature reduction of 40°C below ambient conditions. This aggressive cooling dramatically reduces dark current, allowing for longer, cleaner sub-exposures and simplified calibration.

• Adjustable Control: Using ASCOM or native drivers, you can set the target temperature, fan speed, and power to the integrated anti-dew heater on the protective window.
• Power Requirements: The cooling system requires a separate 12V DC power supply with a minimum rating of 5A (not included) to achieve its maximum cooling potential. Without it, the camera operates in an uncooled mode.

512MB DDR3 Cache and 33 FPS Readout

To handle the massive data stream from the 47 MP sensor without dropped frames, the Artemis-M Pro features a 512MB DDR3 memory buffer. This cache ensures reliable image transfer, even over slower USB 2.0 connections or with less powerful computers. It allows the camera to sustain a frame rate of 8 FPS at full 8288x5648 resolution (RAW8) or an impressive 33 FPS in the 14-bit hardware BIN2 mode.

This high frame rate opens up possibilities beyond traditional deep-sky imaging. You can capture high-resolution mosaics of the Moon or Sun (with a proper solar filter) using the same camera you use for imaging the Orion Nebula (M42).

4-Point Tilt Plate and 12.5mm/17.5mm Back Focus

Achieving a perfectly flat field across a large 4/3" sensor is critical. The Artemis-M Pro incorporates a 4-point, rear-adjustable sensor tilt plate, which is easier to dial in than 3-point systems. This allows you to precisely align the sensor plane to your telescope's focal plane, eliminating corner star elongation caused by optical train tilt.

• Dual Back Focus: The camera provides two back focus distances. The standard 17.5mm is compatible with most M48 filter wheels and accessories. Removing the tilt plate reduces the back focus to 12.5mm for imaging systems with tight spacing requirements.
• Connection Adapters: The camera includes M48x0.75, 2", and 1.25" adapters, ensuring compatibility with nearly any focuser or accessory.

Artemis-M Pro vs. ASI294MM Pro: Buffer, Cooling, and Design

The Artemis-M Pro and ZWO ASI294MM Pro are both built around the Sony IMX492 sensor, but key differences in their implementation set them apart for different users.

• Data Buffer: The Artemis-M Pro features a 512MB DDR3 buffer, double the 256MB buffer in the ASI294MM Pro. This provides greater stability during high-speed captures and reduces the risk of dropped frames, especially on systems with heavy CPU load.
• Cooling Performance: Player One specifies a 40°C Delta-T for the Artemis-M Pro's cooling system, offering slightly more cooling potential than the 35°C Delta-T of the ASI294MM Pro. This can lead to lower thermal noise during imaging sessions on warm nights.
• Sensor Tilt Adjustment: The Artemis-M Pro uses a 4-point rear-adjustment tilt plate, which many find more intuitive for corner-by-corner correction. The ASI294MM Pro typically uses a front-mounted 3-point adjustment system.
• Amp Glow: The Artemis-M Pro exhibits some amp glow, particularly in BIN2 mode or at high gain settings, which must be calibrated out with proper dark frames. The ASI294MM Pro is designed with circuitry to suppress amp glow entirely.