ZWO ASI120MM-MINI 1.2 MP CMOS - Review

ZWO ASI120MM-MINI 1.2 MP CMOS Monochrome Astronomy Camera with USB 2.0 - Review

Capturing stunning astronomical images requires the right tools and equipment. And in order to get the best results, it's important to have a high-quality camera that is sensitive enough to track faint guide stars. The ZWO ASI120MM-MINI 1.2 MP CMOS Monochrome Astronomy Camera with USB 2.0 is one such camera that is designed to deliver sharp and clear images of the night sky. In this review, we'll be looking at what the ASI120MM-MINI camera has to offer and why it might be the right choice for your astrophotography needs.

Let's start with the technical specifications of the camera. The ASI120MM-MINI comes with a 1/3” CMOS 1280x960 sensor that has 3.75-micron pixels. This means that the camera is capable of capturing high-resolution images with fine details. The camera also boasts of a high peak QE of 75%, which makes it highly sensitive to faint guide stars, making it perfect for autoguiding or planetary imaging.

One of the key features of this camera is its low read noise. With a read noise of just 1.2e-, the ASI120MM-MINI is one of the quietest cameras available in the market. This allows for tight tracking of faint guide stars, resulting in sharp and clear images. In addition, the camera is designed to support long exposures of up to 1000 seconds, which means you can capture detailed shots of deep-sky objects.

The ASI120MM-MINI boasts of a USB2.0 Type-C interface and ST4 port that allows you to connect it directly to the autoguider port of a telescope mount. This makes it easy to set up and use, and you don't need any additional adapters or cables. The camera also comes with a compact form factor with a diameter of 36mm, making it easy to slip into a 1.25” focuser. It weighs just 60g (2.1oz), which makes it lightweight and portable, perfect for astrophotography on the go.

The ASI120MM-MINI also comes with an AR-coated protective window that maximizes transmission and protects the sensor from dust and scratches. Additionally, the camera includes an M28.5X0.6 female thread for astronomy filters, which allows you to use your favorite filters to enhance your images. Overall, the ASI120MM-MINI is a well-designed and versatile camera that is designed to meet the needs of astrophotographers of all skill levels.

Setting up the ASI120MM-MINI is easy, thanks to the software and drivers available on the manufacturer's website. The camera is compatible with a range of software, including ASICAP, SharpCap, FireCapture, and more. The software allows you to adjust the camera settings, capture images and videos, and even autoguide your telescope.

As of writing, the ASI120MM-MINI has an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars rating on Amazon, with a total of 92 customer reviews. Customers who have purchased the camera have praised its high sensitivity, low read noise, and ease of use. One customer said that "this camera was a huge upgrade from my previous camera, and the difference in image quality is significant." Another customer said that "the ASI120MM-MINI is a reliable and lightweight camera that is perfect for astrophotography on the go."

In conclusion, the ZWO ASI120MM-MINI 1.2 MP CMOS Monochrome Astronomy Camera with USB 2.0 is a high-quality camera that is designed to deliver sharp and clear images of the night sky. It is highly sensitive, has a low read noise, and is easy to set up and use. If you're in the market for a new camera for your astrophotography needs, the ASI120MM-MINI is definitely worth considering.

ZWO ASI120MM-MINI 1.2 MP CMOS

View Product Price