G3M678M/C - High-Frame-Rate Planetary Photography Camera

October 16, 2024

The G3M678M/C planetary guide camera uses Sony STARVIS 2 technology and the IMX678 CMOS mono/color sensor, with a 1/1.8" format and 2.0um pixel size. It offers a high resolution of 3840x2160, 512MB DDR3 cache, high sensitivity performance, and low dark current, with quantum efficiency (QE) over 80%. It supports high-frame-rate imaging, reaching 1500+ fps at 8-bit and 3840x40 resolution. This makes it highly efficient for solar scans and more sensitive in capturing the Moon and planets.

High Fram Rate

The G3M678M/C features a USB 3.0 high-speed interface, and with the upgraded driver, the frame rate performance in ROI mode is even more impressive. At a resolution of 3840x40, the frame rate exceeds 1500 fps at 8-bit, and reaches up to 740 fps at 16-bit. Whether capturing high-speed line scans of the Sun or Moon, or obtaining a comprehensive view of planets, the high frame rate provides an efficient and stable shooting experience.

Note: When shooting at ultra-high frame rates of 1500 fps and above, the frame drop rate may fluctuate depending on the user's video capture device. If the performance of the video capture device is limited, it is recommended to choose the 16-bit mode at 740 fps for shooting.

G3M678M/C frame rate test at 8BIT and 3840X40 resolution

G3M678M/C frame rate test at 16BIT and 3840X40 resolution

Light Sensitivity Enhancement

The G3M678M/C exhibits high sensitivity in the near-infrared band (700nm–1100nm). When paired with an 850nm IR infrared pass filter or an 890nm methane filter, it demonstrates enhanced stability and resistance to seeing interference. This expands the infrared imaging capabilities for solar, lunar, and planetary photography.

G3M678M Spectral Sensitivity Characteristic Curve

G3M678C Spectral Sensitivity Characteristic Curve

STARVIS 2

The G3M678M/C utilizes Sony's STARVIS 2 image sensor technology, offering a broader light sensitivity response range and enhanced dynamic performance. Additionally, STARVIS 2 significantly improves imaging capabilities in low-light environments, particularly in the infrared spectrum. With lower dark current and readout noise, the camera maintains a high signal-to-noise ratio and excellent clarity when capturing high-contrast subjects.

512MB DDR3 Cache

The G3M678M/C features a USB 3.0 high-speed interface along with a 512MB DDR3 cache. This large-capacity cache is particularly beneficial for planetary photography, where there is a need to handle substantial data write operations, as well as for capturing high-frame-rate lossless videos. It effectively reduces the transmission burden on the computer, ensuring smoother performance during data-intensive tasks.

Glow-Free Technology

The G3M678M/C utilizes glow-free technology, ensuring that images remain clear and pristine, regardless of long exposure times or high gain settings.

HCG Mode Support

The G3M678M/C supports switching between HCG (High Conversion Gain) and LCG (Low Conversion Gain) modes. In HCG mode, setting a high gain effectively reduces readout noise while maintaining the same wide dynamic range as lower gain settings. When switched to HCG mode, the readout noise can achieve as low as 0.5e-, and the dynamic range remains close to 12 stops. This feature enhances the camera's ability to capture faint light signals while preserving details in both bright and dark areas.

G3M678M/C in HCG Mode: e/ADU, Read Noise, Full Well, and Dynamic Range

Highly Compatible Front-End Design

The G3M series planetary guiding cameras feature an extended front end that allows for easy connection to telescopes using a 1.25-inch extension tube. They can accommodate 1.25-inch mounted filters and are compatible with CS interface lenses. Additionally, with the installation of a 5mm adapter, they can also connect to C interface lenses.