OPTICSTAR

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1 Opticstar 2 Apogee Scientific Imaging Systems 5 Finger Lakes Instrumentation 8 A&M Advanced Telescopes 10 Shoestring Astronomy 3 Moravian Instruments 7 Yankee Robotics 9 Imaging & Astronomy Products 12 MSB Software / Mirametrics Inc. 13 Opticstar on-line 14 OPTICSTAR

2 "The quality exceeds anything I've been able to do in the past with film or any other CCD camera." Senior Editor Dennis di Cicco of Sky & Telescope in an S&T Test Report, June 2007 issue Alta U9000 The Alta imaging systems represent cost effective advanced imaging technology not found anywhere else and at highly attractive prices! PREMIUM RITCHEY CHRETIEN OTAs, SCHMIDT CAMERAS, SUPER APO REFRACTORS, MACSUTOVS A&M 152mm f8 Super-apo "beauty of a Ferrari" "fantastic performance" "the manufacturer's claims are valid". A&M 80mm f/6 Super-apo "best of breed" "offers stunning performance look no further". Cloudy Nights CN Reports 1

3 Opticstar DS-335C & DS-335C ICE The DS-335C series cameras are native 3.3 mega pixel 48-bit colour, 16-bit greyscale CCD long exposure imagers with a Sony Super HAD Chip of 1/1.8" diagonal (ICX262AQ). The DS-335C colour cameras have been specifically designed for the amateur astronomer. Two models are available, the DS-335C and the DS-335C ICE which incorporates Peltier cooling that greatly reduces noise, important during extended exposures. Sony ICX262AQ, 3.3 Megapixel 1/1.8 Colour CCD CCD: 2140 x 1560 pixels, no IR filter Pixel size 3.45 x 3.45 microns 1x1, 2x2, 4x4 binning support SrarView mode (x36 increase in sensitivity) 48-bit RAW full resolution colour images all metal sealed case Peltier cooled to 30ÇC below ambient, maximum USB 2.0 high-speed interface Maximum frame rate: 4fps Raw 16-bit image transfer (2048x1536) 1 second~ Nebulosity fully featured image capture/processing software Image formats: BMP, FITS, JPG, PNG, TIFF, RAW 2.5 metres in-situ USB cable High quality regulated PSU for DS335C ICE included C mount, 1.25" nosepiece, T thread nosepiece included Operating systems: Windows 2000/XP or later Maxim DL & Astroart plug-ins included in the price The DS-335C is well suited for Lunar, Solar, planetary and deep sky astrophotography. The more serious deep sky astrophotographer should opt for the cooled version for best results. The DS-335C has exposures of up to 12 minutes in binned mode, 6 minutes un-binned. The DS-335C ICE has exposures of up to 24 minutes in binned mode, 12 minutes un-binned. It comes complete with an array of accessories including cables, adapters, fully featured image processing software for astronomy and power supply. Ready to use out of the box. PRICE: DS-335C Kit Ä cooled DS-335C ICE kit Ä Opticstar DS-145M ICE The DS-145M ICE Peltier cooled camera with fan-assist is a monochrome long exposure 1.4 mega pixel (16 bit greyscale) CCD imager with a large format highly sensitive Sony EXview sensor of 2/3" diagonal (ICX285AL). The DS-145M ICE is currently the most light sensitive camera in Opticstar s ever expanding range of cameras for astronomy. Sony ICX285AL 1.4 Megapixel CCD, 2/3 monochrome CCD Low dark current, excellent anti-blooming CCD: 1434 x 1050 pixels, no IR filter Pixel size 6.45 x 6.45 microns On-board hardware noise reduction circuitry 1x1, 2x2, 4x4 binning support SrarView mode (x16 increase in sensitivity) all metal sealed case Peltier cooled to 30ÇC below ambient, maximum USB 2.0 high-speed interface Preview 1434x1050: 3.5fps Raw 16-bit image 1434x1050: 0.5 second Nebulosity fully featured image capture/processing software Image formats: BMP, FITS, JPG, PNG, TIFF, RAW 2.5 metres in-situ USB cable High quality regulated PSU for DS145M ICE included C mount, 1.25" nosepiece, T thread nosepiece included Operating systems: Windows 2000/XP/Vista Maxim DL & Astroart plug-ins included in the price The DS-145M ICE is very well suited for Lunar, Solar, planetary and deep sky astrophotography. The DS-145M ICE supports infinite exposure times and its large highly sensitive sensor makes it ideal for deep sky imaging. The camera comes complete with an array of accessories including cables, adapters, fully featured image processing software for astronomy and power supply. The camera is ready to use out of the box. PRICE: DS-145M ICE kit Ä1, DS-145M ICE kit + Opticstar filter-wheel + LRGB filters Ä1, The DS-335C and DS-145M series cameras can be used in conjunction with the Opticstar AG-130M Auto-guiding Kit to deliver a complete imaging solution. 2

4 Opticstar AG-130M Auto-guiding Kit The recently upgraded AG-130M Auto-guiding Kit comes with all you need to auto-guide your ST-4 compatible mount and telescope. The AG-130M Auto-guiding Kit consists of the Opticstar PL-130M 1.3MP (maximum exposure 10 seconds) monochrome USB2.0 video camera, Shoestring USB or Parallel Guide Control Box, cables, camera control software, PHD auto-guiding software, CD and printed guide. The AG-130M kit also includes Maxim DL and Astroart plug-ins in the price. It can be used as a guider or for imaging via these two software packages. The kit is bundled with PHD Guiding and its own long exposure camera control software. PRICE: Shoestring GPUSB Auto-Guiding Kit Shoestring EQDIR Auto-Guiding Kit Shoestring Astronomy's USB version of its auto-guiding connectivity kit that plugs to your computer's USB port. Supported by AstroArt, MaxIm DL, MaxDSLR, K3CCDTools, GuideDog, Guidemaster and all ASCOM compliant software. The kit includes a GPUSB unit with USB cable and an 1.5 metres corded cable to connect the GPUSB unit to your telescope mount. PRICE: Shoestring Astronomy's EQDIR auto-guiding connectivity kit plugs to your computer's serial port and can by used to auto-guide HEQ5 and EQ6 mounts without the need of the Skyscan controller. Supported by K3CCDTools, GuideDog, Guidemaster and all ASCOM compliant software. The EQDIR unit will connect directly to a serial port on your PC. PRICE: Shoestring GPINT-PT Auto-Guiding Kit Shoestring Shutter Control Adapter Shoestring Focus Motor Control A low cost yet elegant auto-guiding connectivity kit from Shoestring Astronomy that plugs to your computer's parallel port. Supported by GuideDog, AstroArt, MaxIm DL, MaxDSLR, Guidemaster, AstroVideo and K3CCDTools. The kit includes a GPINT-PT unit and an 1.5 metres corded cable to connect the GPINT-PT unit to your telescope mount. PRICE: The DSUSB allows your PC to control your DSLR camera. Cameras supported include the Canon EOS 300D/350D/400D. All cables required are included. For the Nikon D50, D70, and D70s, and any other models compatible with the Nikon ML-L3 IR remote control, you will need the DSUSB-IR1 unit. The kit comes complete with an extension cable and IR transmitter head. PRICE: (Canon) (Nikon) The FCUSB allows you to control a DC focus motor (or any DC motor for that matter) by way of a USB port and software on your computer. Using the free FocusPal software, you can control the speed and direction of your motor with just mouse clicks! Third-party software that supports the ASCOM Focuser standard will also work with the FCUSB using the FCUSB ASCOM driver. PRICE:

5 Opticstar PL-130M A 1.3 mega-pixel (true resolution, without image compression or interpolation) monochrome video camera that connects to your computer's USB 2.0 port and can stream and store full resolution video at 12 frames per second (15fps 1280x1024). The PL-130M has maximum exposures times of 10 seconds and high quantum efficiency (56% max, 50% at H-alpha) that makes it an excellent choice for lunar, solar and planetary imaging, also for use as a guider. The PL-130M comes with its own camera control software and offers native PHD Guiding, Maxim DL and Astroart support though which the camera also supports long exposures, binning, ROI etc. Maxim DL and Astroart plug-ins are included in the price. The camera also operates in WDM mode and can therefore be used with applications like GuideMaster, GuideDog and AMCAP among others or with microscopy software. PRICE: Opticstar 318CU-T Opticstar SL-300C The Opticstar 318CU-T is a high quality long exposure (60 seconds maximum) 3.0 mega-pixel colour video camera that connects to your computer's USB 2.0 port and can stream and store full resolution video at 7 frames per second (8fps 2048x1536, 20fps 1024x758) without image compression or image interpolation. It is light sensitive with high quality image reproduction and user friendly in operation. Ideal for terrestrial, planetary, lunar and solar astrophotography. PRICE: A 3.0 mega-pixel (true resolution, without image compression or interpolation) colour video camera that connects to your computer's USB 2.0 port and can stream and store full resolution video at 7 frames per second (8fps 2048x1536). Recommended for terrestrial, lunar and solar astrophotography. High magnifications planetary imaging via frame stacking. PRICE: Opticstar SL-130C & PL-130C Opticstar 5-position Filter-wheel A 1.3 mega-pixel (true resolution, no image compression or interpolation) colour video camera that connects to your PC's USB 2.0 port and can stream and store full resolution video at 12 frames per second (15fps 1280x1024). Recommended for lunar and solar astrophotography. High magnifications planetary imaging via frame stacking. The PL version is highly sensitive to IR wavelengths when compared to the SL. PRICE: (SL) (PL) The new Opticstar Colour Filter Wheel has 5 positions and will accept standard 1.25" threaded mounted filters. It is made form 3mm thick aluminium and can easily carry medium sized cameras. A set of thumb-screws enable for the easy and fast exchange of filters without the need for a screw driver. The case design minimises the amount of stray that can enter the filter wheel. The filter-wheel is bundled with three adapters (T-thread m-m, T-thread-m to 1.25 draw tube and T- thread-m to 1.25 nosepiece) as standard in order to connect to all Opticstar CCD / CMOS cameras and to third party cameras. Also suitable for visual observation. PRICE:

6 Alta Scientific Imaging Systems Alta set new standards for imaging performance, connectivity, cooling, compactness, cost effectiveness, and the elimination of external support electronics. The Alta series represents the ultimate in CCD performance. Highest Speed, lowest noise, 16/12 bit dual digitization to >10MHz, TEC cooling to >55C. Lifetime warranty on CCD chamber seal. Fast USB 2.0 and 100Base-T Network Interfaces, advanced I/O control. Customers benefit by lower prices, allowing them more choices. These new price points represent a true paradigm shift in price versus performance. In the June 2007 issue of Sky & Telescope in an S&T Test Report, Senior Editor Dennis di Cicco had this to say about the Alta U9000: "The quality exceeds anything I've been able to do in the past with film or any other CCD camera." Alta U Series So many improvements in such a small package: No more external controllers, plug-in cards, or frame grabbers. Dual digitization for high precision plus high speed focus. On-board camera memory for fast local sequences and no transfer interruptions. Time delayed integration for imaging far beyond the size of the sensor. USB 2.0 interface Resolution from 512 x 512 up to 4096 x 4096 Wide variety of CCD architectures Single ActiveX driver and Linux driver for all models Dual 12/16-bit digitization to 32 Mbyte camera memory No plug in cards or external controllers Programmable cooling to 60C below ambient Precision Time Delayed Integration readout Programmable fan speed for zero vibration Runs from single 12V supply Alta U Series cameras are available with a wide variety of sensors, including: Back-illuminated sensors with very high quantum efficiency, some with sensitivity in the deep UV; Interline transfer sensors with fast electronic shuttering and inherent anti-blooming; front-illuminated CCDs with high sensitivity in the near-ir without etaloning. In general, the larger the pixel size, the higher the dynamic range. Smaller pixels (~7 microns) are typically used for microscopy (U32; U2000; U4000); larger pixels and larger arrays are typically used for astronomy (U42, U47 back-illuminated; U16, U6 front-illuminated). PRICE: from 2,995 Alta E Series The E Series builds on the U Series and eliminates cable length issues and freedom of location. More power and flexibility than any cameras in their class: more cooling, higher speeds, higher sensitivity. 10/100 BaseT interface via RJ45 connector ARM RISC processor embedded in camera head for network interface management. DHCP or Fixed IP address modes TCP/IP transmission modes Embedded WEB server for camera configuration and future browser control Host independent interface - can be directly controlled via any network. CAT 5 cable meters on a single leg. The Alta E Series offer support for Dual Digitization, multiple readout modes, fast/automatic imaging sequences, drift scanning (TDI), dual port outputs, flexible binning and incorporate a dual programmable LED display. Please contact us for more details on the Alta U & E Series. 5

7 Ascent Series Cameras Ascent Series Cameras are a compact cooled USB2.0 imaging system with many of the features found in Apogee s flagship platform, Alta. Apogee Instruments Inc has been in development of a low cost, high performance follow on to the successful Alta line. This camera fills the current void of lower cost cameras with higher speed and smaller footprints. Ascent is the perfect choice for applications requiring high speed, low cost and a compact enclosure. PRICE: from 766 USB2.0 High Speed Serial Interface A wide range of CCD arrays supported Compact Thin Lightweight Enclosure - 22 oz, 1.2" thick with BFD Cooling up to 40C below ambient with liquid or fan assist, 30C without Hermetically sealed and argon filled CCD chamber with lifetime warranty SDRAM in camera head for local image storage and fast sequences 16 bit Digitization, Up to 10Mhz, Single or 20Mhz Dual amplifier readout Single +6V supply Advanced triggering, Ext. Shutter and Readout controls Programmable status indicator LEDs Binning to 4095 Vertical x 4 Horizontal, independently selectable <1uS separation between back-to-back images (Interline CCDs only) No external control units or plug-in cards Internal or External shuttering Field upgradeable firmware Precision TDI readout, Kinetics Mode with Sync output signals Progressive Scan and Continuous Imaging modes Internal relays for auto guider operation and telescope mount control Compatibility with Alta software drivers Supported by all software currently supporting Alta and additional applications Attachable filter wheel accessory and flexible peripheral mounting options Compatible with Optec IFW and Apogee FW50 filter wheels 2 year warranty on camera, lifetime warranty on CCD chamber seal Custom fitted Carry case (optional) Apogee Accessories Apogee Instruments has a full line of accessories including filter wheels, filters, cable extenders, robotic focusers, a wide range of adapters, liquid coolers and much more. Please contact us for more information. Apogee Software Support Apogee supports a wide range of imaging software products including KestrelSpec (Spectroscopy), MaxIm DL/CCD (Astronomy, General Sciences), MicroCCD (Microscopy), Image Pro Plus (Microscopy), CCDsoft (Astronomy, General) etc. Linux software is available on CD and includes GUI, drivers and support. A C++ SDK with source code is also available for customers that wish to develop their own applications. 6

8 Moravian Instruments G2-CCD The Enhanced series of G2-CCD cameras supports highly sensitive, low noise Kodak Full-Frame CCD sensors. High-speed USB 2.0 interface minimizes download time and advanced analogue electronics ensures very low read noise. Efficient two-stage Peltier cooling keeps sensors cool to minimize dark current. Compact and robust camera head integrates all electronics, shutter and the filter wheel mechanism. The cameras are ready to accept and control an internal optional 5 or 6-position filter holder. Very high sensitivity with peak QE 88% maximum Lowest possible system read noise, limited by CCD chip itself. High dynamic range (16-bits digitization) and linear response. Efficient and precisely regulated cooling, 50 degrees below ambient. Optional heat exchanger for liquid cooling. Integrated all-in-one design with integrated USB and power connectors Robust construction. Integrated filter wheel for standard filters Integrated mechanical shutter. Ability of unattended operation enabled by integrated shutter/filter wheel Rich software support. The MI G2 cameras support Kodak s most sensitive sensors with maximum QEs between 80% and 88% boasting excellent performance in the IR and particularly H-alpha range which is very important to astronomers. Enhanced digital electronics of the new revision of G2 cameras provide average speedup around 10% for standard read modes and 20% for low noise read modes. Download times are summarized in the table on he right. PRICE: from 1,195 Camera Sensor Read Mode Download G KAF-0402ME Standard read 1.08 s ULN read 1.27 s G KAF-1603ME Standard read 4.09 s ULN read 4.90 s G KAF-3200ME Standard read 8.60 s ULN read s Moravian Instruments G1-Guider The air-cooled all-metal G1 Auto-Guider CCD camera is based on Sony EXview & Super/HAD CCD sensors. The USB-powered device is very compact and lightweight. The embedded fan keeps the CCD temperature very close to ambient otherwise the heat produced increases the device temperature by many degrees above ambient which in turn generates significant levels of noise. In addition G1 cameras support 16-bits digitization, significantly enhancing the dynamic range. Strong anti-blooming protection keeps even bright stars round, without blooming streaks. G1 series of CCD cameras currently include the following models. Model CCD chip CCD architecture Color filters Resolution Pixel size Imaging area Download time G ICX424AL progressive none 656 É É 7.4 μm 4.9 É 3.7 mm ~ 0.05 s G1-0300C ICX424AQ progressive RGBG (Bayer) 656 É É 7.4 μm 4.9 É 3.7 mm ~ 0.05 s G ICX204AL progressive none 1032 É É 4.65 μm 4.8 É 3.6 mm ~ 0.1 s G1-0800C ICX204AK progressive RGBG (Bayer) 1032 É É 4.65 μm 4.8 É 3.6 mm ~ 0.1 s G ICX259AL interlaced none 752 É É 6.25 μm 4.9 É 3.6 mm ~ 0.06 s PRICE: from 340 7

9 MicroLine The MicroLine camera systems form FLI are designed and manufactured to the highest specification offering, hermetically sealed sensors, superior triple-tec cooling (50-55 degrees), the lowest noise possible, blazing download speeds and high transmission camera windows. The MicroLine imaging system will accommodate sensors as large as the Kodak KAI or KAF-4301E. A field-serviceable photo-etched stainless-steel shutter makes user shutter replacement straight forward. Operating at speeds up to 12mp per second, a KAI sensor (11mp) can be downloaded to the PC in one second, without introducing any artefacts! FAST download speeds up to 12 mega-pixels/sec 100% CNC Machined Sub-Assemblies On-board frame buffer as standard High Transmission camera windows (97%) CCD over scan capability Custom window available with transmission below 200nm Field upgradeable firmware Triple TEC Cooling as standard USB 2.0 High speed serial Interfaces Fast Reliable 48 mm FLI designed stainless-steel shutter Hermetically Sealed CCD Chamber Small, light-weight form factor for Medical & Research Wide range of supported CCD Imaging Sensors Kodak Full Frame Colour, Monochrome and Interline E2V Technologies Full Frame Back-Illuminated E2V Technologies Full Frame Front-Illuminated Low noise, 16-bit operation Compatible with all FLI colour filter wheels and focusers ProLine The ProLine Imaging System sets a new standard in quality, performance and flexibility. The ProLine features a six-leaf shutter, with a 1 million MTBF rating, user selectable download speeds, choice of cooling base configurations, a wide range of supported CCDs and dual hermetically sealed chambers for the sensor and electronics. Breaking new ground in download speeds, the ProLine can download images at up to 12 megapixels per second. On-board memory ensures that the PC can take the image at whatever speed the PC is capable, without introducing any artefacts. Selectable download speeds up to 12 megapixels/sec Guaranteed sensor alignment and orthogonality On-board frame buffer standard (image storage, fast sequencing) 100% CNC Machined Sub-Assemblies, no plastics or sheet metal CCD overscan capability High Transmission camera windows (97%) Field upgradeable firmware Custom window available with transmission below 200nm USB 2.0 High speed serial Interfaces (Ethernet option available) Wide range of supported CCD Imaging Sensors 65mm and 85mm aperture shutters available - Kodak Full Frame CCD Color and Monochrome Fast Reliable Shutters - Fairchild Imaging Full Frame Back-Illuminated (95% QE) - Six-leaf stainless-steel shutter (coming soon) - E2V Technologies Full Frame Back-Illuminated (UVAR option) - Uniblitz shutter (MTBF of 1 million cycles) Monochrome or Colour CCD Triple TEC Cooling for true, maintainable 65ÇC cooling CCD Resolutions up to 40 Mega-pixels Dual Hermetically Sealed Chambers Compatible with CFW-4-5(S), CFW-5-7(S) & PDF Focuser - Electronics - back filled with medical grade Argon - Five and Seven positions filter wheels available - Sensor - back filled with medical grade Argon (Xenon option) - Research Grade LRGB, H alpha and UBVRI sets available Low noise, 16-bit operation - 65mm diameter filters and 50mm square filters CCD Readout noise: 5e~ (sensor dependent) Dimensions: 2" x 6.2" x 4" (WxDxH) Weight ~6 pounds Relative humidity operating range 95% FLI Accessories The MicroLine and Proline cameras are compatible with all FLI imaging accessories including FLI s Precision line of Colour Filter Wheels and Digital Focusers. MicroLine and Proline camera adapters are available for microscope, telescope and machine vision connectivity. PRICE: MicroLine from Ä2,300 ProLine from Ä6,600 8

10 Yankee Robotics Yankee Robotics designs and builds the Trifid range of Digital Cameras for low-light, long duration exposures. Particular attention is given in the software to make the sometimes daunting task of taking low-light level photos as easy as possible. A software development kit with the entire application source is provided at no additional charge. Imaging chips in the Yankee Robotics cameras are manufactured by Kodak to specifications especially suited to astronomers. Patent Pending Design Great pricing doesn t mean sacrificing quality or features. Trifid electronics have patent pending single photon performance and ultra-smooth background noise to give you incredibly deep images in less time than competitors cameras can. A frame buffer built into the camera and high-speed USB 2.0 downloads means the images stream out in a hurry. Each Trifid Camera has a fast-action, five-leaf shutter sitting in front of the window. The 45 mm clear opening of the shutter is larger than the clear opening of the two-inch port. Neither causes vignetting in even the largest imaging chip. The stainless steel iris shutter can be opened by and closed by the camera in less than 0.02 seconds. Trifid Cameras contain advanced electronic cooler subsystems to lower the thermal noise of the imaging chip below what is detectable. The cooling system regulates the temperature of the imaging chip up to 75 degrees C below the water jacket temperature, which itself is cooled by a closed and self sufficient water cooling system depending on the camera model. All Trifid cameras share a number of common features including single photon performance, full frame buffers, fast USB2.0 connectivity, high transmissions and Maxim DL and CCDSoft support. Trifid Gold Imaging Camera The Trifid Gold includes a number of refinements for those that simply must have the best possible camera. Gold includes patent pending single photon performance with an enhancement that will bring the read noise to an even lower level (already among the lowest in the industry). PRICE: from 5,932 Three stage TEC cooler Fan or water removal of excess heat CCD down to -40C at up to 35C ambient: 75C of cooling using only the fan 0.01C temperature regulation, variable speed fan 18-bit images for more signal to noise ratio Less than 4.5 electrons of noise, 20C Hardware Ghost Buster Sapphire window standard equipment Xenon gas in the cold chamber. Five times the thermal isolation of air or nitrogen Conformal coated circuit boards for humid nights Class 1/2 Kodak KAF-CCD sensors Colour or monochrome Trifid-2 Imaging Camera The water cooled Trifid-2 includes patent pending single photon performance with an enhancement that will bring the read noise to an even lower level. PRICE: from 3,664 Less than 6.5 electrons of noise KAF-6303E at -20C and gain 1.0 electrons per ADU Optional sapphire window Argon gas in the cold chamber. Twice the thermal insulation of air or nitrogen Class 1/2 Kodak KAF-CCD sensors Two stage TEC cooler Water assist; fan version in C of cooling 0.1C temperature regulation Five vane, black, fast, shutter 16-bit Analogue to digital converter (ADC) Yankee Robotics also offer a range of accessories including the Cyclops filter-wheel and YR Nugget auto-guider. 9

11 Astrotech Engineering (IT) Astrotech Engineering is the manufacturer behind the A&M series of telescopes. It serves the professional astronomy market and provides observatories with equipment and expertise. These solutions represent, not just high quality but also offer the best value for money. The company provides after sales service and support to the same high standards including bespoke solutions to clients by researching their particular application and implementing appropriate systems that fulfil the specific needs. A&M Telescopes A&M telescopes stand for performance without compromise. These fine instruments are manufactured to exceptional quality standards and incorporate the highest quality glass from A&M/Astreya, A&M/TMB, William Optics/TMB, Macron, Star Instruments etc. The world-class telescopes deliver exceptional performance and unmatched value for money. An extensive range of products incorporates highly corrected apochromat refractors, Ritchey-Chretiens, Maksutov- Cassegrains and Dobsonians. PRICE: from 893 A&M Apochromat and Super-apochromat Refractors These superior refractors are manufactured to exceptional quality standards and incorporate the highest quality glass with a choice of 2" to 4" focusers from Starlight Instruments, MoonLite and William Optics. The high degree of chromatic correction in the SuperAPO range is achieved by the use of 3 and 4 optical elements (for larger apertures) of the highest quality optical glass available. A&M refractors use the latest optics designs from A&M/Astreya and A&M/TMB. All refractors come with interferometric test reports as standard. All A&M refracting telescopes are manufactured using carbon graphite and aluminium tubes. Each optical tube assembly (OTA) is CNC machined to the highest tolerances and is computer optimized for lightweight operation with structural rigidity. The front & rear rings and all small parts are fully CNC machined from aluminium, stainless steel or brass. Other features include three point collimation, flocked tubes, heat-compensating lens support rings and computer optimized ray traced baffles. The finish of all parts is anodized or multi-coat painted. Larger models come with an air-cool option. Model Type Cooling Objective Lens Aperture Focal Ratio Focuser Type Options (dual speed) Crayford William Optics MoonLite FeatherTouch A&M80 APO - WO-TMB doublet 80mm A&M80 SUPER-APO - A&M-TMB triplet 80mm 6.0/ / A&M100 SUPER-APO - A&M-TMB triplet 100mm A&M102 SUPER-APO - A&M-Astreya triplet 102mm A&M105 SUPER-APO - A&M-TMB triplet 105mm A&M115 SUPER-APO - A&M-TMB triplet 115mm /3.5 A&M130 SUPER-APO - A&M-TMB triplet/astreya quad. 130mm 6.0/ /3.5 A&M152 SUPER-APO - A&M-TMB triplet/astreya quad 152mm 8.0/ /3.5 d A&M152W SUPER-APO Fans x3 A&M-TMB triplet / Astreya quad 152mm 8.0/ /3.5 A&M180 SUPER-APO - A&M-TMB / Astreya triplet 180mm 7.0/ /3.5 A&M180W Fans x3 Fans x3 A&M-TMB / Astreya triplet 180mm 7.0/ /3.5 10

12 A&M Ritchey-Chretien Catadioptics These professional telescopes feature advanced optical designs with outstanding engineering while offering exceptional performance and unmatched value for money. Aperture sizes range between 250mm and 400mm (10" to 16"). These fine instruments are manufactured to exceptional quality standards and incorporate the highest quality optics from Macron, Star Instruments, Astrosib and LK- 5. All CNC aluminium and stainless steel construction. A focuser is optional. 10 f f8.0 / 12.5 f f8.0 / 14.5 f f f8.0 Macsutov Cassegrain MC-250 Catadioptic The A&M MC-250 is built from a carbon fiber truss tube. Each 10 f12.5 OTA is CNC machined to the highest tolerances and is computer optimised for lightweight operation with structural rigidity. The primary mirror support system, secondary mirror support system, spider as well as internal baffles, front & rear rings and all small parts are fully CNC machined from aluminium, stainless steel or brass. The primary mirror support cell has absolutely no mirror-shift or mirror-flop. The fixed primary mirror also has axial and radial support and the unused outer portion of the primary mirror is masked. Includes 2 Feather Touch focuser. A&M Schmidt Camera DSC-200/250 Unique Digital Schmidt Camera design, ideal for astrophotography due to the very high brightness and large, true point, corrected field. Primary mirror diameter: 250mm, f/2.5. Each OTA and all its components are CNC machined to the highest tolerances and is computer optimized for lightweight operation with structural rigidity. Aluminium, stainless steel or brass throughout. The OTA is entirely realized in carbon fibre for maximum lightness and to stabilize the focus position thanks to the thermal expansion characteristics of this material. The primary mirror support cell has absolutely no mirror-shift or mirror-flop and has both axial and radial support. The primary mirror support and rear assembly are designed to provide excellent ventilation and removal of internal residual heat. Air circulation is accomplished via three axial fans. Included is an external on/off and speed control for the fans. Three adjustable rear assembly openings provide thermal convention adjustments to the primary mirror. Three point collimation of the primary mirror, each can be locked into place once collimation is achieved. High precision electric focuser based on Robofocus electronics. The support of the CCD at camera focus is a true mechanics masterpiece. Supports Starlight Xpress H9, M25C, etc. Please contact us for more details. 11

13 Also available from Opticstar. Imaging Source The Imaging Source develops and manufactures hardware and software for text and image processing applications, primarily used in industry, medicine and science. Other communities have come to show interest in these cameras. In particular, amateur astronomers have started realizing the advantages of these CCD cameras. Starlight Xpress Starlight Xpress is a British manufacturer of astronomical CCD cameras. The company designs and builds good quality, low cost, cooled CCD cameras. The new SXVF camera range has got the capability to autoguide with the addition of the dedicated SXV-Autoguider camera that connects directly to the primary imaging camera. Artemis A new CCD camera from Artemis that features the Kodak KAI sensor. Artemis cameras are known for their low prices and no frills approach, offering the amateur astronomer value for money. KAPPA Video Cameras KAPPA manufactures high-end CCD cameras including Video, RS 422, Fire Wire, Camera Link, and LVDS. Kappa serves the needs of specialized market segments all over the world including solutions for security, medicine, machine vision, surgical endoscopy, microscopy, X-ray applications and astronomy. DTA Long Exposure Cameras for Sciences DTA designs and manufactures its own line of scientific grade cooled CCD cameras, advanced customized devices, software and digital imaging systems. DTA also manufactures a range of high quality accessories including their range of highly specified RPF filter-wheels with filter positioning speeds of under 50ms. Watec Watec Co. Ltd., has become the leader in miniaturization, currently producing the smallest CCD cameras in the industry. The firm continues to shrink CCD cameras while improving quality. All Watec cameras are manufactured in Japan. Mintron Mintron is the world leading CCD camera manufacturer in Taiwan since All production processes are qualified with ISO-9001 since 1997 & ISO since Most of its products have CE, UL/CSA, FCC approval respectively. 12

14 Astroart AstroArt is a complete software package for image processing, photometry, astrometry, CCD control and image stacking for CCD and film images. It allows the user to control multiple CCD cameras simultaneously and it includes auto-guiding functionality. All major CCD cameras, webcams and DSLRs are supported by AstroArt. Focusing, auto-guiding, imaging and scripting become easy and quick. AstroArt is also an open system with plugin support. All programmers of C/C++, Visual Basic, Delphi can create new filters using the free development kit. PRICE: Advanced filters with preview facility Astrometry and photometry with integrated star atlas Image stacking with sub-pixel correction High quality 96-bit colour image processing Controls most CCD cameras on the market including: Opticstar DS335C & ICE, Opticstar DS145C ICE, Opticstar PL130M, FLI MaxCam, FLI IMG, YR Trifid II, Meade DSI/Pro, webcams, etc. Can control multiple cameras simultaneously For Windows 95/98/Me/2000/XP Supported by Shoestring Auto-Guider GPUSB/GP-NT connectivity kit Multilingual support: French, German, Spanish, Czech, Hungarian, Dutch and English Printed 140 page manual Mira Mira from Mirametrics Inc. is a flexible, modular software system consisting of several world-class software applications, a variety of special-purpose extension modules, and an image processing extension language. Mirametrics is known for integrating the best algorithms into the most usable human-engineered interfaces. Mirametrics products and development services leverage Mirametrics diverse expertise, a large store of intellectual property, and 17 years in the business. Mira MX Integrates advanced image processing, visualization, and quantitative tools into a superior user interface to give accurate results and help you develop new insights into your data. Used in materials science, nanotechnology, reconnaissance, biotech, radiography, and R&D. PRICE: 1,200 Mira Pro For Astronomy & space science. Provides research grade calibration, data reduction, visualization, and measurement tools in a highly integrated, easy to use extensive collection of imaging classes and libraries is provided. PRICE: 465 Mira AP Designed especially for college astronomy classes, student research, and amateur astronomers doing science. Mira AP has professional grade tools and gives publication quality results. PRICE: 254 Mira AL For education and public outreach Mira AL allows educators and students to do real science on a tight budget. Mira AL is also an excellent solution for amateur astronomers. PRICE: 87 13

15 Introduction Opticstar Ltd is the Premier Supplier of CCD Imaging solutions for astronomy in the UK and offers a large range of premium single shot imagers, video cameras and accessories. Opticstar carefully selects its range of products to offer the customer the highest quality and best value. The Opticstar websites are designed to be your single point of call whether you are a professional or amateur astronomer. The Opticstar website boasts hundreds of pages of product descriptions, downloadable technical information and authorative up-to-date information that will aid you to make the right decision. This catalogue only contains a small number of products and a fraction of the information that you will find at and at Customer Enquiries We will be delighted to discuss your requirements and offer professional advice on the purchase of equipment fully backed by world-wide industry leaders. We accept and ship orders from, and to all European territories, North America, Australia, New Zealand, Japan etc. Orders To place an order on-line using a credit or debit card please use Opticstar's official secure on-line shop at or if you wish to order an Opticstar branded item outside the European Union. Alternatively contact us directly or one of our authorised dealers to place an order. We accept banker transfers/drafts, credit/debit cards, personal cheques and postal orders. All purchases ordered by cheque are dispatched after the cheque has been cleared by the customer's bank. Please allow up to 5 working days for this. All payments must be made in pounds sterling paid to Opticstar Ltd. Dealer Enquiries Dealer enquiries for all relevant European territories including United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland should be forwarded to Opticstar Ltd. All information and prices in this catalogue are correct at the time of going to press, prices include 17.5%. OPTICSTAR Opticstar Ltd Vantage House, 26A Northenden Road, Sale, Cheshire, M33 3BR, United Kingdom. Tel: +44(0) Web: info@opticstar.com 14

16 OPTICSTAR Opticstar Ltd Vantage House, 26A Northenden Road, Sale, Cheshire, M33 3BR, United Kingdom. Tel: +44(0) Web: info@opticstar.com 15