Imaging Source DFK 21AU618.AS

[Mike]

I've been using an Imaging Source camera, DMK41 mono for solar and DMK21 color for Planetary. An example of both can be seen in my "image gallery". However, the buz has been the Flea 3 from Point Grey. It uses the Sony 618 which is more sensitive than the current chip used in the Imaging Source color. I haven't wanted to get involved with the Point Grey products because they don't support the astronomy end like Imaging Source does. I guess it's not enough for their concern yet. So, you have to use a 9-pin IEEE-1394b connection and software that can be troublesome. You've probably seen the unbelievable images of Jupiter taken by Anthony Wesley of Australia. He uses a mono version of the Flea 3 that is more sensitive than the color version. But, you have to use three color filters and that really gets to be a hassle. Another advantage of the Flea 3 is a big buffer of memory built in to the camera that allows for much greater data transfer to your computer (the 9-pin IEEE-1394b connection also contributes to this high rate of transfer). The DMKs max out at 25 fps if your scope gathers plenty of light. My friend and his 300mm MAK can get 25 fps. I can only get about 15 fps with my 6" refractor and current camera. Of course, the greater the data transfer the better the chance to catch that elusive moment of perfect seeing. However, this is all changed as Imaging Source just released the DFK21 with a Sony 618 and USB connection. This chip is nearly twice as sensitive as the model I now have according to recent reviews. The Imaging Source camera control software and drivers come with the camera and they are a snap to install and use. My new camera just arrived today and I'm really excited to try it out. If it really is twice as sensitive or close, it should prove interesting. Like anything else, there is a learning curve to capturing good data and processing with software like Registax. In order to get the image size I need out of a short focal length refractor (F8) I have to use a 4X Televue Powermate. The learning curve and expense of planetary imaging doesn't compare with more expensive CCD cameras (Imaging Source chip a CCD also). So, if anyone has been thinking about "recording" what they see, now is the time. As soon as Irene gets past Florida our skies will clear up and I'll be out at 4:00 AM getting some new Jupiter images. I wish I could get one of you guys with the "BIG" glass to try it.
Mike

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[Watcher3]

Where did you get it Mike? Price?

Would an achro benefit from a monochrome and RGB filters for planetary imaging?

[Mike]

Joe, I have a Perseus 150-8 that just came. It needs to be tested and I intend to try the new camera through it. So, I will be able to answer the question of how well the color works from experience soon. I'm trying to think of a technical reason why one would be better than the other. There are so many things to consider. What focal length? Resulting in how much aberration? As I mentioned imaging in RGB is somewhat tedious. You have to be quick and even then there is some rotation when Jupiter is involved. You also have to refocus for each filter change. It depends on what you're trying to accomplish. If you want the absolute best, mono is the way to go. If you can settle for results like my July Jupiter image then the ease and simplicity of color is it. The camera I just purchased was $450 from OPT. www.optcorp.com/product.aspx?pid=319-320-1214-1285-16990 the mono version is $490 www.optcorp.com/product.aspx?pid=319-320-1214-1285-16814 I'm hoping to get out this weekend. I'll post my results right away.
Mike
If you go mono, don't forget to add in the price of a filter wheel and "quality" filters.