Orion StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera

The Orion StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera has been designed with performance enhancing features and software that until now have been reserved for much more expensive CCD imagers. Built around the popular Sony interline ICX419AKL color CCD chip, which boasts a 752 x 582 pixel array with sensitive, 8.6 micron by 8.3 micron pixels, the StarShoot G3 is capable of detecting fine details in celestial objects. This bigger, 1/2" format CCD sensor usually isn't available in cameras priced as low as the Orion StarShoot G3, and it provides a much larger imaging field of view than cameras equipped with 1/3" format chips so you can shoot more sky in far less time.

The StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera is the only camera in its price range to feature regulated thermoelectric cooling (TEC). Regulated thermoelectric cooling significantly improves astrophoto quality and reduces noise by enabling accurate dark frame acquisition. This regulated "cooling" feature is usually only found in much pricier cameras, and makes the StarShoot G3 Camera a truly amazing value. The efficient on-board TEC can cool the StarShoot G3 to a brisk 10°C below ambient temperature so that noise is minimized in dark frames and exposures. The StarShoot G3 even features a small, vibration-free fan which assists the TEC to remove warm air swiftly and further optimize imaging results. These cooling features are usually only found on imaging cameras priced up to four times more expensive than the Orion StarShoot G3! 

Seen below is a split-view taken from two different 180 second dark frames displaying the exact same pixel brightness range. As seen with the TEC on, the StarShoot G3's cooling system reduces the number of hot pixels and overall noise in the image.

The Orion StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera is capable of downloading a full frame image in approximately 2 seconds. While that's fast enough on its own, a convenient subframe downloading feature allows for even speedier results if desired. The StarShoot G3 Camera has a wide exposure range so you can take extensive exposures of wispy deep space objects and then capture a quick snapshot of the Moon during the same imaging session.

Complete astrophotography imaging software is included with the StarShoot G3. Orion Camera Studio software makes it easy to control image capture through the camera, save results, process images, and share with family and friends! The included software is compatible with Win7-64, 8, 10 Operating Systems (32 bit, 64 bit). ASCOM drivers are also included for the Orion StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera, allowing use with a number of other popular image processing programs, such as Nebulosity, ImagesPlus, and more.



The versatile Orion StarShoot G3 can also be used as a dedicated autoguider, with a direct ST-4 output conveniently built right into the camera body. Use the StarShoot G3 as a high-performance, low-noise 16-bit CCD autoguider with a high-end CCD imaging camera or DSLR attached to your imaging telescope for especially accurate tracking and precise results. Included ASCOM drivers allow you to use your choice of autoguiding software with the StarShoot G3, such as our recommended favorite software,  PHD Guiding, when using the camera as an autoguider. Autoguiding software is not included with the Orion StarShoot G3 Color Deep Space Imaging Camera.

The Orion StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera comes with a removable 1.25" nosepiece for easy attachment to virtually any telescope focuser. The nosepiece is threaded for use with 1.25" Orion imaging filters so you can easily enhance your images. Removing the 1.25" nosepiece reveals a built-in 2" barrel with standard T-threads for secure coupling of the camera to your imaging telescope and/or astrophotography accessories. 

Measuring just 3.4" in diameter with a depth of 1.85", the compact Orion StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera won't take up much space in your accessory case, and its small size and symmetrical body makes it a great candidate for use with Fastar and Hyperstar imaging systems. The camera weighs just 12 oz. so whether it's used as an imaging camera or autoguider, it will keep your astrophotography setup lean and mean. 

The StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera connects to your computer via its USB 2.0 connection, and a 10' USB cable is included. A 10' auto-lighter power cable is also included to provide 12V DC power to the on-board cooling TEC when needed. The USB 2.0 connection conveniently provides enough power to the camera for non-cooled operation or for use as an autoguider. External power is only required for TEC operation.

The Orion StarShoot G3 Deep Space Color Imaging Camera is our most affordable 16-bit, cooled CCD imaging camera. In fact, it's one of the most affordable feature-packed cameras available to astrophotographers today!