I had actually chosen the Raspberry HQ Camera for my entry into all-sky photography. But by a stroke of luck, I was able to buy a ZWO ASI678MC camera on eBay at a very reasonable price. I use this camera in combination with a 2.5mm fisheye lens for my Allsky project.
What makes the ASI678MC better
- Higher resolution and sensitivity: The ASI678MC is equipped with a Sony IMX678 sensor, which makes even the finest details visible and works with less noise – an unbeatable advantage for long-term imaging of the night sky.
- Optimization for low light: The higher light sensitivity of the ASI678MC is a game changer for the conditions of my Allsky camera, which is also intended to capture faint star streams.
- Broader color spectrum and fewer color errors: The color accuracy of the ASI678MC is impressive, which is particularly helpful when observing and analyzing celestial phenomena.
- Compatibility with indi-allsky (installation information): The camera integrates easily into my system and I’m looking forward to the first tests and comparisons with previous images.
…but it costs considerably more when new.
The lens for the Allsky camera: 2.5 mm Fisheye f1.6
In addition to the ASI678MC, I treated myself to a cool lens. This is a 2.5 mm fisheye lens with a CS mount and an aperture of f1.6 – with a 190° angle of view and an image circle of 6.2 mm, it is perfect for Allsky shots.
The main reasons for choosing this lens are
- High-quality optics and sharp resolution: the lens is renowned for its clarity and minimizes distortion and chromatic aberrations – a crucial factor when it comes to accurately imaging stars and other celestial objects.
- Wide field of view: with its ultra-wide angle of view, the lens provides comprehensive coverage of the sky, which is essential for my images of meteors, satellites and cloud movement.
- Robust construction: A solid, weatherproof lens is essential for an all-sky camera that is exposed to all weather conditions. The lens is sturdily constructed and can be used even in adverse weather conditions. In addition, it has two adjustment rings for the aperture and focus, both of which can be fixed with a small screw.
The lens is available to buy directly from the manufacturer on the well-known Chinese platform. It costs many times more at other dealers…