Altair GPCAM2 AR0130 mono guide camera full set
The Altair GPCAM2 AR0130 monochrome astronomical camera is an advanced imaging device designed for a wide range of astronomical applications. Equipped with a highly sensitive 1.2-megapixel Aptina AR0130 CMOS sensor, this camera offers exceptional image quality at an affordable price thanks to advanced CMOS technology.
Key features and applications
The GPCAM2 AR0130 camera enables HD imaging of planets, the Moon, and the Sun with remarkable quality. Its greatest advantage is the built-in ST4 port for autoguiding, making it an ideal choice for use with Altair Miniguider and Starwave guide scopes. Compact dimensions matching a standard 1.25″ eyepiece eliminate the need for complex adapters and ensure easy installation in any telescope.
For planetary photography, the camera offers high frame rates and short exposure times essential for "lucky imaging" techniques, which minimize the effects of atmospheric seeing. The protective window allows infrared radiation to reach the sensitive sensor, enabling the use of special filters for further enhancement of results. When used with refractors in visible light, however, a UV/IR blocking filter is recommended.
Solar photography capabilities
The camera excels in solar photography not only in visible light but also in H-alpha and calcium spectral lines. High sensitivity in these areas significantly reduces required exposure times. For wide-angle sky photography, a standard C(S) mount lens can be attached, allowing capture of meteors, aurora, or creation of time-lapse videos of Earth's rotation.
Technical specifications
At the heart of the camera is a specially selected 1/3″ Aptina AR0130 HD CMOS sensor with 3.75-micron pixels. The sensor utilizes advanced Dynamic Response (DR-Pix) technology, ensuring high performance in very low light conditions while maintaining high dynamic range and low noise. Quantum efficiency reaches up to 78% in the green spectrum area, making the camera exceptionally sensitive.
| Specification |
Value |
| Sensor |
1/3″ Aptina AR0130 CMOS |
| Resolution |
1.2 megapixels |
| Pixel size |
3.75 μm |
| Quantum efficiency |
Up to 78% (green) |
| Connection |
USB 2.0 |
| Autoguider port |
Built-in ST4 |
| Thread |
1.25″ / CS-mount |
Advanced ROI functionality
Full support for ROI (Region of Interest) function allows dramatic increases in frame rates by focusing on specific areas, ideal for detailed monitoring of planetary phenomena or solar activity. The free AltairCapture software also enables rapid creation of dark frames within seconds.
Build quality and design
The camera's electronic boards are equipped with electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and contain exclusively high-quality components from the USA and Japan. This component quality ensures more stable performance and longer lifespan compared to competitors, confirmed by a two-year warranty.
The camera housing is precisely manufactured on CNC machining centers with accuracy measured in thousandths of an inch. It contains a sophisticated heat dissipation system that efficiently removes heat from electronics and sensor through the external shell, resulting in a cooler sensor and lower noise during long exposures. During long exposures, unnecessary circuitry is additionally turned off for further noise reduction.
GPCAM2 platform improvements
The GPCAM2 platform with its characteristic purple housing brings significant improvements over the previous generation. Larger dimensions allowed implementation of expanded electronic boards supporting trigger mode and image storage, as well as increased cooling area.
Trigger mode simplifies control of long exposures over 5 seconds and allows immediate camera shutdown even mid-exposure, invaluable during unexpected condition changes. The improved built-in image buffer enhances data transfer stability at high frame rates and increases compatibility with a wider range of computers.
Connectivity and mounting
The camera features a built-in ST4 autoguider port on the rear with an included 1.5m cable for direct connection to GOTO mounts. Power is supplied through the included 2-meter USB 2.0 cable, minimizing cable clutter.
The standard 1.25″ body diameter allows connection to almost any telescope focusing device. Standard 1.25″ filters can be installed, such as light pollution filters. Removing the 1.25″ adapter reveals a standard CS-mount thread compatible with industrial lenses or microscopic adapters.
Software and system requirements
Drivers and software are not included in the package but are freely available for download from the manufacturer's website. AltairCapture software supports a wide range of functions including rapid creation of calibration frames.
Minimum system requirements
- Microsoft Windows 7/8/10/Vista/XP (32+64 bit)
- USB 2.0 port
- Intel Core2 2.8 GHz processor or equivalent
- At least 2 GB RAM
- 17″ monitor or larger for comfortable operation
The Altair GPCAM2 AR0130 represents an excellent choice for astronomers seeking a versatile, high-quality imaging solution that combines planetary photography capabilities with professional autoguiding functionality. Its robust construction, advanced sensor technology, and comprehensive feature set make it suitable for both amateur and semi-professional astronomical applications.
