ZWO ASI120MM Mini Monochrome Astronomy Camera
A Great Choice for Off-Axis Guiding or Entry Level Astrophotography
Providing great performance at an affordable price, the ASI120MINI from ZWO is an entry-level astrophotography camera that can provide great performance for both planetary imaging and guiding! Utilizing the AR0130CS CMOS sensor, the ASI120MINI is boasts high sensitivity, and some of the key features of this camera include low read noise, high dynamic range, an AR protective window, and more!
When compared to the ASI120MM-S camera, the ASI120MM Mini utilizes a sleeker design that weighs less, a difference of 60g, and the mini camera can reach focus at the same position as an eyepiece. Some of the other key differences between this mini version of the ASI120MM camera is the diameter. The mini has a diameter of 36 mm and the ASI120MM-S has a diameter of 62 mm. Additionally the interface of type of the mini is Type C, while it is Type B on the "S" version of the camera. Finally, the ASI120MM Mini has a USB2.0 speed while the ASI120MM-S has a USB3.0 speed.
A Good Off-Axis Guider Solution!
An additional benefit of the MINI is its small and sleek form factor and light weight, making it extremely portable. As well, it is able to reach focus at the same position as an eyepiece. This means you can focus with an eyepiece and then swap out the eyepiece for the ASI120MINI without needing to make any other adjustments. The ASI120MINI is well-suited for use as an off-axis guider (OAG). It has a much bigger focus range compared to normal ASI cameras, which allows your guide camera and main camera to be able to find focus at the same time.
AR0130CS Sensor
The ASI120MINI monochrome camera from ZWO featuers the AR0130CS CMOS sensor from ON semiconductor. At 4.8 x 3.6 mm, the AR0130CS gives the ASI120MINI a resolution of 1280 x 960 and a pixel size of 3.75um. The AR0130CS also provides 12-bit ADC with a peak quantum efficiency of almost 80 percent.
Ports
The ASI120MINI is an exercize in simplicity. All control and expansion comes through just two ports. The ASI120MINI features one USB2.0 type-C port to power and control the camera. It also includes one ST4 port for connection to a mount autoguider port.
Includes Many Helpful Accessories
Along with the camera, the ASI120MINI includes several helpful accessories. Included is an ST4 cable, a 0.5 meter USB2.0 type-C cable, a 2 meter USB2.0 type-C cable, a 1.25" extender, an M28.5-CS adapter, a 1.25" lens cover, and a quick start guide. All of these accessories make the connection options more varied out of the box, which is a great feature for the ever expanding ecosystem of astrophotography rig accessories. This means you'll be able to adapt your camera for rigs in 2025 and beyond!
ZWO ASIAir Plus (Sold Separately)
There is a wireless camera control solution available for this camera, and it's called the ZWO ASIAIR Plus. This small wireless module allows you to focus, take images, make adjustments with your smartphone or tablet, and even do plate solving and computerized mount control. If you'd like to add an ASIair Plus to your camera order, you can find it in the suggested accessories section.
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