At just over 4 inches in diameter and a few inches thick (IMX585), the new miniCAM8 is a compact, high-resolution, high-performance, cooled imaging system capable of exceptional, high-quality deep space images as well as high-quality, high-resolution planetary images.

So often, compactness in astro-imaging is achieved at the expense of some other critical feature found in multi-component cooled systems, such as sensor quality or thermoelectric cooling, etc. Such is not the case with the new miniCAM8. Based on Sony’s IMX585 8 MP sensor, the miniCAM8 includes full TE cooling capable of reaching a delta of -45℃ from ambient along with a built-in 8-position filter wheel for complete LRGB and narrowband imaging.

High Near-Infrared Sensitivity

The IMX585 is a Sony Starvis II processor that enables high sensitivity and high dynamic range (HDR). It also improves sensitivity in the near-infrared range by approximately 1.7 times* compared to the IMX485. The new camera miniCAM8 has a maximum quantum efficiency of 60% in the near-infrared band and 92% in the visible wavelength band.

*This data is officially provided by Sony: https://www.sony-semicon.com/cn/news/2021/2021062901.html

BSI

One benefit of the back-illuminated CMOS structure is improved full-well capacity. This is particularly helpful for sensors with small pixels. In a typical front-illuminated sensor, photons from the target entering the photosensitive layer of the sensor must first pass through the metal wiring that is embedded just above the photosensitive layer. The wiring structure reflects some of the photons and reduces the efficiency of the sensor.

In the back-illuminated sensor, the light is allowed to enter the photosensitive surface from the reverse side. In this case, the sensor’s embedded wiring structure is below the photosensitive layer. As a result, more incoming photons strike the photosensitive layer, and more electrons are generated and captured in the pixel well. This ratio of photon to electron production is called quantum efficiency. The higher the quantum efficiency, the more efficient the sensor is at converting photons to electrons, and hence the more sensitive the sensor is to capturing an image of something dim.

Zero Amplify Glow

miniCAM8 is also a zero amplifer glow camera.

Anti-Dew Technology

Based on almost 20-year cooled camera design experience, the QHY cooled camera has implemented the fully dew control solutions. The optic window has a built-in dew heater, and the chamber is protected from internal humidity condensation. An electric heating board for the chamber window can prevent the formation of dew, and the sensor itself is kept dry with our silicon gel tube socket design for control of humidity within the sensor chamber.

Cooling

In addition to dual-stage TE cooling, QHYCCD implements proprietary technology in hardware to control the dark current noise.

Variants

MiniCAM8M Deep Sky Combo - 

The astronomical filters included with the miniCAM8 deepsky combo are custom-designed to match the specific characteristics of the cameras. The size is 19 mm * 12 mm * 1.1 mm. The LRGB and SHO narrowband filters for the miniCAM8M deepsky combo are customized by XiMei Filters. The LRGB filters have an optical density (OD) value of 3, while the narrowband filters have an OD value of 5.

MiniCAM8M Planetary Combo - 

Includes: miniCAM8M x1; LRGB filter set x1; 20nm Methane filter x1; 40nm UV filter x1; 10nm Na filter x1

MiniCAM8M Photometric Combo - 

Includes: miniCAM8M x1; u’, g’, r’, i’, z’ sloan filter set x1

The Chroma Technology Z-Sloan SDSS Filter is a precision-designed astronomical filter tailored for photometric accuracy and advanced astrophotography. Conforming to the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) photometric system, this filter isolates the z band, a region in the far-red to near-infrared spectrum, ensuring precise data collection and exceptional imaging performance.

With advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the Z-Sloan filter offers outstanding transmission in the z band, which typically spans wavelengths from approximately 850 nm to 950 nm, while effectively minimizing light from adjacent bands. It is particularly useful for observing cooler stars, distant galaxies, and objects obscured by interstellar dust, as the z band penetrates these regions more effectively than shorter wavelengths.

Engineered for durability and consistent performance, the Chroma Z-Sloan SDSS Filter maintains its precision under challenging imaging conditions. Whether used for detailed photometric studies or capturing stunning astrophotographic images, this filter provides exceptional clarity and accuracy in the far-red to near-infrared spectrum, making it an indispensable tool for astronomers and astrophotographers seeking superior results.

The Chroma Technology I-Sloan SDSS Filter is a high-precision astronomical filter tailored for photometric accuracy and advanced imaging. Designed in accordance with the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) photometric system, this filter isolates the near-infrared (I) band, enabling detailed observations and vivid imaging of celestial objects in this spectrum.

Crafted with advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the I-Sloan filter ensures exceptional transmission in the I band while effectively blocking unwanted light from adjacent bands. It is particularly suited for capturing the subtle details of stars, galaxies, and other deep-sky objects in the near-infrared, where unique astrophysical phenomena can be observed.

Built to withstand rigorous use, the Chroma I-Sloan SDSS Filter offers durability and consistent performance across diverse imaging conditions. Whether used for precise photometric studies or astrophotographic projects, this filter provides unparalleled clarity and accuracy in the near-infrared spectrum, making it an essential tool for astronomers and astrophotographers striving for superior results.

The Chroma Technology R-Sloan SDSS Filter is a precision-engineered astronomical filter designed for photometric studies and astrophotography. Conforming to the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) photometric system, this filter isolates the red (R) band, ensuring accurate measurements and stunning imaging of celestial objects in the red spectrum.

Featuring advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the R-Sloan filter delivers exceptional transmission in the red band while minimizing out-of-band interference. It is ideal for capturing the richness and detail of stars, galaxies, and nebulae, particularly those with significant red emission features, making it an essential tool for both scientific observations and high-quality astrophotography.

Durable and reliable, the Chroma R-Sloan SDSS Filter is designed to withstand challenging imaging environments while maintaining precise performance. Whether you're conducting detailed photometric analyses or creating vivid astrophotographic images, this filter provides outstanding accuracy and clarity in the red band, making it indispensable for astronomers and astrophotographers seeking superior results.

The Chroma Technology U-Sloan SDSS Filter is a high-performance astronomical filter engineered for precise photometric measurements and advanced imaging applications. Designed to align with the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) photometric system, this filter isolates the ultraviolet (U) band, ensuring accurate and reliable data for scientific studies and astrophotography.

Constructed with advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the U-Sloan filter offers superior transmission in the ultraviolet range while minimizing out-of-band interference. It is ideal for capturing ultraviolet emissions from stars, galaxies, and other celestial phenomena, enabling detailed studies of astrophysical properties and producing visually striking imagery.

Built for durability and consistent performance, the Chroma U-Sloan SDSS Filter resists environmental degradation, maintaining its precision under diverse observing conditions. Whether used for professional research or enhancing your astrophotographic capabilities, this filter delivers exceptional accuracy and clarity in the ultraviolet spectrum, making it an indispensable tool for astronomers and astrophotographers alike.

The Chroma Technology I-Bessell Filter is a premium astronomical filter designed for photometric precision and advanced astrophotography. Aligned with the Bessell photometric system, this filter isolates the infrared (I) band, enabling accurate data collection and enhanced imaging of celestial objects in the near-infrared spectrum.

Utilizing advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the I-Bessell filter ensures exceptional transmission in the I band while effectively reducing out-of-band interference. It is ideal for capturing the subtle details and intensities of stars, galaxies, and other deep-sky objects, particularly in the near-infrared region, where many astronomical features become more prominent.

Durable and reliable, the Chroma I-Bessell Filter is designed to withstand challenging imaging environments while delivering consistent performance. Whether you're conducting precise photometric studies or capturing striking astrophotographic images, this filter is an essential tool for professionals and enthusiasts seeking accuracy and excellence in the near-infrared spectrum.

The Chroma Technology 8nm SII filter is a high-performance narrowband filter designed for astrophotography and scientific imaging. It isolates the Sulfur II (SII) emission line at 672.4nm with an 8nm bandwidth, offering excellent contrast and detail for capturing deep-sky objects, especially emission nebulae.

Crafted with precision, this filter incorporates advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings for outstanding light transmission and durability. Its 8nm design balances light collection and selectivity, effectively reducing light pollution and moonlight interference while allowing more signal for fainter objects. Whether you're imaging in urban environments or under pristine dark skies, the Chroma 8nm SII filter delivers sharp, halo-free results with minimal reflections, making it an essential tool for astrophotographers striving for stunning and detailed imagery.

The Chroma Technology 5nm SII filter is a high-performance narrowband filter designed for astrophotography and scientific imaging. It isolates the Sulfur II (SII) emission line at 672.4nm with a narrow 5nm bandwidth, offering excellent contrast and detail for capturing deep-sky objects, especially emission nebulae.

Crafted with precision, this filter incorporates advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings for outstanding light transmission and durability. Its 5nm design effectively minimizes light pollution and moonlight interference, making it suitable for imaging under a variety of conditions. Whether you're capturing images in urban settings or beneath dark skies, the Chroma 5nm SII filter delivers sharp, halo-free results with minimal reflections, making it a must-have for astrophotographers seeking stunning and detailed imagery.

The Chroma Technology 3nm SII filter is a high-performance narrowband filter designed for astrophotography and scientific imaging. It isolates the Sulfur II (SII) emission line at 672.4nm with an ultra-narrow 3nm bandwidth, delivering exceptional contrast and detail for capturing deep-sky objects, especially emission nebulae.

Engineered with precision, this filter features advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings for superior light transmission and durability. Its ultra-narrow design significantly reduces light pollution and moonlight interference, making it ideal for imaging under challenging conditions. Whether you're working in urban environments or under pristine dark skies, the Chroma 3nm SII filter ensures sharp, halo-free images with minimal reflections, making it an essential tool for astrophotographers aiming for stunning, detailed results.

The CHROMA TECHNOLOGY OIII (8nm) Filter is a versatile narrowband filter crafted for astrophotography and scientific imaging. Designed to isolate the Oxygen III (OIII) emission line at 500.7nm with an 8nm bandwidth, this filter provides excellent contrast while allowing more light throughput. It’s ideal for capturing stunning deep-sky images, particularly of nebulae, even in light-polluted or moonlit conditions.

Featuring advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the CHROMA OIII filter ensures outstanding performance and durability. Its design minimizes halos and reflections while maintaining superior transmission, making it a reliable choice for astrophotographers of all levels, whether working in urban skies or dark-sky locations.

The CHROMA TECHNOLOGY OIII (5nm) Filter is a premium narrowband filter designed for astrophotography and scientific imaging, offering a balanced combination of contrast and light throughput. This filter targets the Oxygen III (OIII) emission line at 500.7nm with a precise 5nm bandwidth, effectively reducing light pollution, moonlight, and other unwanted wavelengths. It provides enhanced contrast and detail, making it ideal for capturing faint nebular structures and intricate deep-sky details.

Built with advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the CHROMA OIII filter ensures high transmission and long-lasting performance. Its robust design and rigorous quality control make it an excellent choice for both professional and amateur astrophotographers, delivering stunning high-contrast images with minimal halos or reflections.

The CHROMA TECHNOLOGY OIII (3nm) Filter is a high-performance narrowband filter specifically designed for astrophotography and scientific imaging. Engineered with precision, this filter isolates the Oxygen III (OIII) emission line at 500.7nm, providing a tight 3nm bandwidth that significantly reduces light pollution, moonlight, and other unwanted wavelengths. The result is unmatched contrast and clarity, allowing you to capture faint nebular structures and intricate details in deep-sky objects.

Crafted with advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the CHROMA OIII filter offers exceptional transmission and durability, ensuring optimal performance for years of use. Its strict quality control standards make it an ideal choice for professional and amateur astrophotographers alike, delivering sharp, high-contrast images with minimal halos or reflections.

The 5nm Chroma H-BETA Filter is a high-performance astrophotography tool crafted to capture stunning details in hydrogen-beta emission nebulae. With its precise 5nm bandwidth, this filter isolates the H-Beta spectral line (486.1nm), boosting contrast and revealing intricate structures in faint nebulae like the Horsehead Nebula and the California Nebula.

Built with premium optical coatings, the Chroma H-BETA filter ensures excellent transmission, maximizing light throughput while effectively blocking unwanted wavelengths such as light pollution and moonlight. Its robust design provides exceptional durability, scratch resistance, and consistent performance across a variety of imaging systems.

Whether you’re using a DSLR, CCD, or CMOS camera, the 5nm Chroma H-BETA filter is an ideal choice for astrophotographers aiming to enhance the depth and detail in their deep-sky images. Discover the cosmos with clarity and precision, as only Chroma can provide.

The 3nm Chroma H-BETA Filter is a premium astrophotography tool designed for capturing breathtaking details in hydrogen-beta emission nebulae. With a precise 3nm bandwidth, this filter isolates the H-Beta spectral line (486.1nm), enhancing contrast and revealing subtle features in faint nebulae like the Horsehead Nebula and the California Nebula.

Engineered with superior optical coatings, the Chroma H-BETA filter offers exceptional transmission, ensuring maximum light throughput while effectively blocking unwanted wavelengths such as light pollution and moonlight. Its advanced construction guarantees durability, scratch resistance, and unparalleled performance across a wide range of imaging systems.

Whether you're imaging with a DSLR, CCD, or CMOS camera, the 3nm Chroma H-BETA filter is the perfect choice for astrophotographers seeking to unlock new levels of detail in their deep-sky images. Experience the universe with clarity and precision, as only Chroma can deliver.

The 8nm Chroma H-alpha Filter is a high-performance narrowband filter designed for astrophotography enthusiasts and professionals. With a precise 8nm bandwidth, this filter isolates the H-alpha emission line at 656.3nm, allowing you to capture stunning details in nebulae and other deep-sky objects with remarkable contrast and clarity.

Manufactured with exceptional optical quality, the Chroma H-alpha filter minimizes halos and reflections, ensuring sharp and artifact-free images even with fast optical systems. Its durable construction features an anti-reflective coating and resistance to environmental conditions, making it an ideal choice for both remote observatories and portable setups. Whether you're imaging under light-polluted skies or pristine dark skies, the Chroma H-alpha filter elevates your astrophotography to the next level.

The 5nm Chroma H-alpha Filter strikes the perfect balance between precision and versatility for astrophotography. With its 5nm bandwidth centered on the H-alpha emission line at 656.3nm, this filter provides exceptional contrast and detail while maintaining a wider passband for increased light throughput, making it ideal for capturing faint nebulosity in less-than-perfect conditions.

Crafted with superior optical coatings and premium materials, the Chroma 5nm filter minimizes reflections and halos, ensuring sharp, high-quality images. It is optimized for fast optical systems and performs brilliantly under both light-polluted and dark skies. Durable and weather-resistant, this filter is built to withstand the rigors of frequent use in any imaging environment.

Whether you're an advanced astrophotographer or just stepping into narrowband imaging, the 5nm Chroma H-alpha Filter offers the perfect combination of clarity, performance, and flexibility to bring your deep-sky images to life.

The 3nm Chroma H-alpha Filter is the pinnacle of precision for astrophotography, designed to deliver unmatched contrast and detail for capturing deep-sky objects. Its ultra-narrow 3nm bandwidth isolates the H-alpha emission line at 656.3nm with exceptional precision, effectively eliminating light pollution and other unwanted wavelengths, even in challenging imaging conditions.

Engineered with state-of-the-art coatings and superior optical quality, this filter minimizes halos, reflections, and ghosting, providing crisp, artifact-free images. Ideal for use with fast optical systems, the Chroma 3nm filter excels in revealing the intricate structures of emission nebulae and other faint targets. Its robust, weather-resistant build ensures consistent performance, whether you're imaging in a remote observatory or under urban skies.

For astrophotographers seeking the highest level of detail and contrast, the 3nm Chroma H-alpha filter is the ultimate tool to unlock the beauty of the universe.

SBIG AFW Filter Wheels are fast and quiet, and are designed to be compatible with our full line of SBIG cameras.  Two size formats are available:

Large Format AFW wheels are ultra-thin, minimizing back focus distance. The standard version, which accommodates filters ranging from 1 mm to 3 mm thick, uses only 0.55″ (14 mm) back focus. The tall version, which accommodates 5 mm thick filters, uses only 0.65″ (16.5 mm) back focus.

Compact Format AFW wheels are a lower-cost option for our compact Aluma CCD and STC-428 cameras.  For users needing more filter slots, an adapter is also available to interface our compact format cameras to a Large Format AFW-16-36R.

SBIG AFW Filter Wheels are fast and quiet, and are designed to be compatible with our full line of SBIG cameras.  Two size formats are available:

Large Format AFW wheels are ultra-thin, minimizing back focus distance. The standard version, which accommodates filters ranging from 1 mm to 3 mm thick, uses only 0.55″ (14 mm) back focus. The tall version, which accommodates 5 mm thick filters, uses only 0.65″ (16.5 mm) back focus.

Large Format AFW wheels are compatible with all SBIG cameras using our “STX” style adapter plates.  This includes our popular Aluma AC Advanced CMOS models as well as our legacy STX and STXL models.

Large Format AFW wheels can also be used on our compact cameras using our AFW to Small Format Camera Adapter.  This option provides more filter slots than our Compact Format wheels.

Compact Format AFW wheels are a lower-cost eight filter slot option for our compact Aluma CCD and STC-428 cameras.  They also work with most legacy STF and STT models.

Multiple Versions Available

• AFW-16-36R Large Format
  • 16 Filter Slots
  • 36 mm Round Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm thick filters
• AFW-16-36RT Tall Large Format
  • 16 Filter Slots
  • 36 mm Round Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm thick filters
• AFW-12-50R Large Format
  • 12 Filter Slots
  • 50 mm Round Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm thick filters
• AFW-10-50SQ Large Format
  • 10 Filter Slots
  • 50 mm Square Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm thick filters
• AFW-10-50ST Tall Large Format
  • 10 Filter Slots
  • 50 mm Square Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm thick filters
• AFW-8-36R Compact Format
  • 8 Filter Slots
  • 36 mm Round Filters
  • Accommodates 3 mm thick filters
  • Lower cost option for compact cameras

Stackable

Two Lage Format AFW wheels can be stacked to add even more filter slots, using the available Dual AFW Filter Wheel Adapter.  “Virtual Slots” can be assigned, which map to different slots on the two wheels.  If you leave one slot empty in each wheel you get almost double (less two) available filter slots.  If you sometimes need to stack filters then you can have even more virtual slots.

Fast Operation

AFW wheels switch filters quickly, requiring just 1 second to change to an adjacent slot.  They can slew in either direction, but when stopping they always approach the filter slot in the same direction to ensure repeatability.  If the requested slot is on the far side of the carousel the maximum transition time is approximately 5 seconds.

Improved Filter Compatibility

Large Format AFW supports the most popular filter sizes, convenient spacers are included:

• 3 mm filters – do not use spacer
• 2 mm filters – align notches in spacer with mounting screws
• 1 mm filters – flip over spacer so notches face the filter
• 5 mm filters – AFW-10-50ST only – adds tall spacers and mounting screws

The lower-cost Compact Format AFW supports 3 mm thick filters.

Easy Installation

The AFW series filter wheels are designed to be quickly installed onto the camera without removing the carousel.  Removing a single access cover provides access to the filter slots and camera mounting screws. Large Format AFW can be installed without removing filters; the Compact Format will require one filter to be removed.

For the Large Format AFW wheels, two mounting screws are “captive” under the carousel, and can be accessed by turning the carousel by hand to align access holes with the screw heads.  The two remaining screws are freely accessible.  This makes installation and removal quick and easy.

For the Compact Format AFW wheels, the two mounting screws under the carousel can be accessed through a filter slot by gently moving the carousel off-center.

Once the wheel is attached to the camera, a single cable is connected to the camera’s AUX port. This single cable provides all necessary power and control functions.

Dual Wheel Support

For those users requiring more filters, the AFW Large Format series wheels include the ability to control two filter wheels. The filter wheels can be stacked using our AFW Dual Adapter. A matching three-port low profile cable is included to connect the two wheels to the camera’s control port.

Currently software support is available via an Aluma AC series camera and MaxIm LT or MaxIm DL Pro software.  Alternatively, the dual wheel can be controlled via our SBIG USB to Filter Wheel Adapter using its associated ASCOM driver.

The software allows you to configure “virtual” filter slots, that map to specific slots on wheel 1 and wheel 2.  Usually one slot is left blank in each wheel, allowing you to select filters from one wheel or the other.  It is also possible to arrange for two filters to be used per slot, depending on your requirements.

With one blank slot in each wheel, a pair of AFW-10-50SQ wheels allow you to use 18 filters.  Similarly a pair of AFW-12-50R wheels will allow you to use 22 filters, and a pair of AFW-16-36R wheels will allow you to use 30 filters.

StarChaser Autoguider and AO Compatibility

Large Format AFW series wheels are compatible with SBIG StarChaser SC-4, providing self-guiding in front of the filters.  They also work with our popular AO-X Adaptive Optics unit, providing the tightest possible star images.

Compact Format AFW wheels are compatible with SBIG StarChaser SC-4C, providing self-guiding in front of the filters.  They also work with our popular AO-8A Adaptive Optics unit.

Large Format Camera Model Compatibility

Please note that when smaller filters are used they may vignette larger sensors.  Compact models will require the AFW to Small Format Camera Adapter.  Some cameras will require an 11066 cable adapter.  Some older products are not electrically compatible and need to use the USB-FW adapter.

Small Format Camera Model Compatibility

The lower-cost Small Format AFW-8-36R is compatible with all small format cameras, including Aluma CCD and STC-428.  It is also compatible with legacy models including STF-8300, STF-4070, STF-8050, STF-1603, STF-3200, STT-8300, STT-1603, and STT-3200.

Additional compatibility notes:

STC-7 and STC-428-P:  The built-in filter wheel prevents the camera from controlling an external wheel.  Options are (a) to replace the built-in wheel with an STC-428-M front plate, or (b) stack the AFW on top and control the second wheel via a USB-FW adapter. The two wheels can be operated together using MaxIm DL’s Dual Filter Wheel feature.  ACC14 is required.

ST series:  Not officially supported.  Requires an ACC14.  May work directly with camera but this is not guaranteed, as ST cameras have not been tested with AFW.  If there is an issue controlling the wheel than a USB-FW adapter will be required.

STL series:  Not officially supported.  The built-in filter wheel prevents the camera from controlling an external wheel. It is possible to attach an AFW wheel to the STL using the ACC10 STL to StarChaser Adapter and use a USB-FW to control it.  Since STL also has an internal filter wheel the combination is best supported using MaxIm DL’s Dual Filter Wheel feature.