Hobbies And Interests
Features
The Meade Deep Sky Imager is powered by a USB high speed cable that can be connected to your laptop when the unit is ready for use. The data gathered by the Deep Sky Imager is never compressed, guaranteeing that all data can be manipulated to obtain the desired results. The Deep Sky Imager is convection-cooled and includes noise reduction techniques to allow longer exposures and increased data per length of exposure.
Software
The Autostar Suite that comes standard with the Meade Deep Sky Imager has the ability to adjust color saturation and balance, eliminating the need for photo editing software. The integrated time lapse photography tool allows astronomers to create stop-action videos. The live histogram and Magic Eye provide fast, no-hassle focusing and the ability to optimize your photos for the best possible exposure. The software requires a Pentium-II 400 megahertz computer to operate according to manufacturer's recommendations.
Specifications
The Meade Deep Sky Imager has a high sensitivity Sony SuperHAD color CCD sensor capable of a photo resolution of 510 pixels by 492 pixels. The A/D conversion rate is 16-bit, resulting in greater image depth and contrast. The exposure time can be set between 1/10,000 of a second to one hour. The housing is made of anodized die-cast aluminum. The unit is compatible with 2.0 High Speed and 1.1 USBs. The imager measures 3.25 inches in height, 3.25 in width and 1.25 inches in thickness. Total shipping weight is 10 ounces.
Accessories
There are three main accessories available for the Meade Deep Sky Imager. The first accessory is a Deep Sky Imager fan that boosts camera functionality by enhancing the air-cooled properties. At max performance specifications, the fan keeps the camera 9 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the surrounding temperatures. Two focal reducers are available. The f/6.3, 4-element, multi-coated reducer reduces exposure by 50 percent. The f/3.3 CCD reducer is multi-coated with 3 elements and a variable T-adapter.