Altair GPCAM2 IMX224 color guide camera full set
The universal astronomy camera with color CMOS sensor IMX224 at 1.2 Mpx resolution represents an ideal solution for a wide range of astronomical applications. Thanks to advanced CMOS technology, you can now capture HD images at significantly lower costs without sacrificing quality or functionality.
Versatile astronomical imaging capabilities
GPCAM2 enables photography of the Moon, Sun, and planets, as well as deep sky objects. The integrated ST4 auto-guiding port makes this camera a perfect choice for automatic telescope guiding. The camera is ideally compatible with Altair Miniguider and Starwave optical tubes, providing all the sensitivity and low weight of direct connection - as simple as a standard 1.25″ eyepiece.
Planetary photography excellence
GPCAM2 IMX224 is exceptionally suitable for planetary photography. High frame rates and short exposure times are key for "lucky imaging" technique, which minimizes the impact of atmospheric turbulence (seeing). After removing the UV/IR filter or replacing it with clear infrared-transmitting glass, you can use an IR pass filter to further reduce the influence of atmospheric conditions.
Solar observation capabilities
The camera also enables solar photography not only in visible light but also in H-alpha and calcium light. After removing the blocking UV/IR filter, GPCAM2 IMX224 exhibits high sensitivity in these spectral regions, shortening required exposure times and increasing the quality of resulting images.
Wide-field imaging and meteor detection
Thanks to the ability to connect standard C(S)-mount threaded lenses, you can use the camera for wide-angle sky imaging, meteor capture, aurora display, or creating time-lapse videos of stellar sky rotation. Full ROI (Region Of Interest) support allows dramatic increase in frame rates by focusing on planets or solar phenomena.
Technical specifications and sensor details
The camera utilizes a specially selected 1/3″ Sony IMX224 HD CMOS sensor with 3.75-micron pixels. This sensor is characterized by high sensitivity, fast frame rates, and capability for long exposures. Advanced DR-Pix Dynamic Response technology provides exceptional performance in very low light conditions, maintaining high dynamic range and low noise, making the camera ideal for planetary imaging, video astronomy, and short exposures of deep sky objects.
| Sensor |
Sony IMX224 CMOS |
| Resolution |
1.2 MP |
| Pixel size |
3.75 μm |
| Sensor format |
1/3″ |
| Weight |
90 grams |
| Connection |
1.25″ barrel, C-mount, CS-mount |
Premium build quality and thermal management
GPCAM2 circuit boards are equipped with electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. All high-quality electronic components are imported from the USA and Japan, ensuring more stable performance and longer lifespan compared to competitors. The manufacturer provides a two-year warranty on quality.
The camera housing is precisely machined on CNC machines with accuracy to thousandths of an inch, guaranteeing perfect component fit and precise alignment. Internal heat transfer structure conducts heat from electronics directly from the sensor and efficiently dissipates it through the external housing, resulting in cooler sensor operation and lower noise during long exposures.
Advanced features and protection
The compact camera, the size of a small eyepiece weighing only 90 grams, contains numerous features in a very small form factor. The sensor is protected by double-sided anti-reflective (AR) coating on the optical window. The color window blocks UV and IR light, allowing direct use with telescopes, Barlow lenses, and reducer lenses.
The GPCAM2 platform with purple housing differs from the previous GPCAM1 generation with blue housing in larger dimensions, which result from expanded electronics supporting trigger mode and frame buffering, as well as increased cooling area. Trigger mode facilitates control of long exposures over 5 seconds and allows immediate interruption of shots when needed.
Complete accessory package
The package includes a meteor lens with 150-degree field of view and F1.6 aperture, ideal for wide-angle sky imaging to capture meteors and auroras. With this lens, you can also create time-lapse videos during the day to capture cloud formation or utilize high-speed video mode. The lens is also sharp and perfectly suitable for macro photography and macro video.
Included accessories
- C-mount adapter with lens
- CS-mount compatibility
- Standard 1.25″ astro format for eyepiece insertion
- Complete cable set for immediate use
- 150° meteor detection lens (F1.6)
- UV/IR blocking filter
Applications and use cases
- Planetary photography and video
- Deep sky object imaging
- Solar observation (with appropriate filters)
- Autoguiding for telescope mounts
- Meteor detection and surveillance
- Aurora photography
- Time-lapse astronomy
- Macro photography and videography
