The ATIK Horizon II Monochrome CMOS Astronomy Camera:
The Horizon II is the follow up to the first Atik CMOS Camera developed for deep sky astrophotography. It maintains the core elements of the initial horizon such as its 16MP CMOS sensor with a 21.9 mm diagonal, its evolution is revealed in the variety offerings. Now with three modes – Normal, PowerSave, and Fast – the Horizon II can produce the highest quality images in PowerSave mode and boasts an increased frame rate in Fast mode. This makes Horizon II one of the most versatile cameras you can buy; suitable for deep sky, planetary or EAA imaging.
It houses a 16MP sensor with exceptionally low read noise and incredibly fast read speeds. With our signature Atik blend of form and function, the Atik Horizon II provides a sensitive, high megapixel sensor at a competitive price point. This makes it a great option if you're looking to upgrade from DSLR, or have system that would benefit from shorter exposure times.
New Horizon II Modes
PowerSave Mode: Allows for the highest quality images to be taken.
Fast Mode: Takes advantage of the on-board DDR memory to return a constant stream of images. Fast mode increases the frame rate of the Horizon II to 8fps. This can increase to 100fps through the use of sub-framing, and reaching 300fps when used with Dusk.
With extensive experience in both hardware and software design, the Atik Horizon II continues its development in the world of deep-sky optimized CMOS cameras.
Mechanically, the Horizon II is based on Atik's established 4-Series cameras, known for their power and adaptability. With a cylindrical case measuring 74 mm in diameter and 130 mm in length, it's compatible with HyperStar systems from 8-inch. The slight size increase on the 4-Series is to house a huge cooling delta of -40°C below ambient. This keeps thermal noise under control, wherever in the world you image from.
Advanced Hardware Deserves Advanced Software
The Atik Horizon II is natively compatible with their Infinity live stacking software to give you incredible views of the night sky in a near real-time environment. Not only is this great for video astronomers and public outreach, it also makes getting into astrophotography a breeze. The on-the-fly image processing gets you up and running quickly, minimizing the learning curve many people experience. However, these advanced functions ensure you are always in control as you steer your way through the night sky.
- Live continuous stacking
- Flexible histogram control, including auto-stretch functions
- Live YouTube broadcast integration
- Interactive session replay
- Focus assist and monitoring tools
- Save to FITs, PNG, JPG and TIFF formats
Horizon II Software Packages
The Horizon II is also fully compatible with their renowned Artemis Capture and Dusk imaging software that gives you full control over your imaging. Also supplied is a full ASCOM driver so you're free to use it with your preferred astroimaging software. When used with Dusk, the Horizon II can not only be used as a cooled deep sky imaging camera but can also be used for high speed planetary imaging with frame rates reaching 300 frames per second using the ROI function.
Amp Glow Control
From the outset, the Horizon II has benefited from a built-in 256 mb DDR3 B-Type image bufferto remove amp glow and other artifacts caused by data transfer over USB2, all while preventing issues with dropped frames. This makes for a seamless and fast imaging experience, whether you're taking advantage of the flexibility and low cable weight of USB2, or the fast speeds of USB3 B-Type connector.
Atik's experience of working with demanding scientific applications has given them an advanced understanding of sealing techniques. This understanding allows them create a condensation free environment, and means your desiccant lasts much longer between recharges. They use the same quartz fused cover glass as their Atik 383L+ camera to prevent condensation forming on the outside of the glass when the camera's cooled. This added level of performance and reliability means you can spend less time maintaining your equipment, and more time imaging with it.
