The SBIG Aluma AC455 stands at the forefront of Advanced Scientific CMOS cameras, specifically engineered for astronomical imaging systems. Combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional reliability, this camera is designed to help you maximize the performance of your telescope, enabling you to capture stunning celestial images with unparalleled clarity.

To overcome common challenges associated with USB 3.0 connections—such as limited cable lengths, unstable drivers, and electrical interference—this innovative design features a robust 10 Gigabit Ethernet interface. This advanced connection not only ensures lightning-fast data transfer speeds but also provides a stable and reliable link to your computer, enhancing your imaging experience.

With the Aluma AC455, you can trust that your astronomical observations will be supported by a camera that prioritizes both performance and dependability, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: exploring the wonders of the universe.

• High-Resolution Imaging.  The Aluma AC455 features a 61-megapixel sensor with an ultra-low read noise of 2.1 e-, delivering exceptional dynamic range and sensitivity for detailed astrophotography.
• Advanced Cooling System. Equipped with a powerful two-stage thermoelectric cooling system, the camera maintains optimal operating temperatures, facilitating long-exposure imaging while preventing noise and ensuring image quality.
• User-Friendly Calibration. The camera allows for easy dark frame subtraction using an SBIG filter wheel as a dark frame shutter, which simplifies sensor calibration, especially in remote setups.
• Comprehensive Software Support. The Aluma AC455 includes MaxIm LT software for complete camera control and image processing, with optional upgrades to MaxIm DL Pro for enhanced features. It also supports ASCOM drivers for compatibility with various astronomy applications.

The Aluma AC455 features an SFP+ Fiber Ethernet interface, a cutting-edge choice that enhances connectivity for astronomical imaging. This technology is not only widely supported but also readily available, allowing users to leverage long-distance connections without the limitations of traditional USB interfaces. While USB 3.0 typically supports cable lengths of only 3 meters (10 feet), the SFP+ interface enables cable runs of up to 300 meters (1,000 feet), offering remarkable flexibility for telescope setups.

SFP+ fiber cables are lightweight, durable, and highly flexible, making installation straightforward even on large telescopes where traditional cabling might pose challenges. This design consideration ensures that astronomers can position their equipment as needed without being constrained by cable lengths or physical limitations.

The Aluma AC455's 61-megapixel sensor efficiently reads out data into the internal DDR3 frame buffer in just 0.25 seconds. Coupled with the fiber Ethernet interface, the camera transmits images in the same short timeframe. As a result, high-performance computers can achieve frame rates of up to 2 frames per second, significantly enhancing the user experience during imaging sessions.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of SFP+ fiber Ethernet technology, a detailed primer is available in Appendix F of the Aluma AC455 User Manual, providing valuable insights into the benefits and functionalities of this advanced interface.  See the Support, Downloads & More tab for a downloadable copy of the manual.

Achieving high-quality long-exposure images necessitates robust cooling and precise temperature regulation. The Aluma AC455 excels in this regard, featuring a powerful two-stage thermoelectric cooling system. This technology is derived from the highly reliable thermoelectric systems first introduced in SBIG's renowned STX series cameras.

SBIG has pioneered the integration of a high-tech user-replaceable cartridge that includes a ceramic filter and molecular sieve desiccant. Unlike many competing cameras that require factory service when their chamber desiccant saturates, the Aluma AC455 allows users to easily recharge the desiccant. This design eliminates the need for costly service and avoids associated downtime and shipping expenses, making it especially beneficial for users in high-humidity environments.

The desiccant cartridge is conveniently accessible via a small door on the side of the camera, allowing for removal and replacement without the need to dismount the camera from the telescope. SBIG recommends recharging the desiccant every two years, or annually in high-humidity locations. This practice not only prevents downtime but also ensures that the sensor remains uncontaminated and protected from moisture-related corrosion.

The Aluma AC455 is equipped with SmartCooling technology, which automatically adjusts fan speeds based on cooling requirements. This feature minimizes acoustic noise when cooling demands are low while maintaining thermal stability and reliability during high-power operation. Additionally, SmartCooling safeguards the camera against potential damage by monitoring heat sink temperatures and cooler power draw, ensuring they stay within safe limits.

To further enhance cooling efficiency, critical electronics are housed in a separate heat sink with its own fan, reducing any impact on sensor cooling performance. 

All functionalities of the Aluma AC455, including its advanced cooling system, are powered by a single 12VDC 8A power supply, streamlining setup and operation for users. This thoughtful engineering ensures that the camera remains dependable and efficient, providing outstanding performance for astrophotography enthusiasts.

The SONY IMX455 sensor is equipped with an electronic rolling shutter, eliminating the need for a mechanical shutter in typical operations. This advancement not only simplifies the camera's design but also enhances its reliability by reducing the number of moving parts that can wear out over time.

To streamline the process of dark frame subtraction, the Aluma AC455 offers a unique solution by utilizing an SBIG filter wheel as a dark frame shutter. Users can easily install an opaque “filter” (included with the camera) into a designated slot within the filter wheel. When dark frames are required for calibration, the camera automatically engages this opaque filter, effectively serving as a dark frame shutter. 

This capability significantly simplifies sensor calibration, particularly in remote or robotic imaging setups where manual intervention is limited. By allowing for automated dark frame acquisition, the Aluma AC455 ensures consistent and accurate results, reducing the potential for noise and enhancing the quality of long-exposure images.

The design reflects SBIG’s commitment to providing innovative solutions that enhance usability and efficiency, making it easier for astronomers to achieve precise calibrations without interrupting their observation sessions. Whether in a professional observatory or a personal backyard setup, the Aluma AC455's integration of the electronic shutter and filter wheel provides a seamless experience for astrophotographers.

All SBIG cameras feature a convenient auxiliary control port, also known as the I2C AUX port, which facilitates control of the filter wheel and offers optional external trigger interfaces. In contrast to earlier SBIG models, the AUX port is no longer used for AO-X control; this function is now managed by the optional SBIG StarChaser off-axis guiding camera, streamlining the setup.

Each SBIG camera includes MaxIm LT software, a $249 value, providing a specialized version of the renowned MaxIm DL software for Windows. MaxIm LT delivers comprehensive control over the camera, filter wheel, and autoguider, along with advanced image processing capabilities. For those seeking enhanced features, an upgrade to MaxIm DL Pro is available, offering complete observatory integration and expanded processing and analysis tools.

An industry-standard ASCOM driver is also provided, enabling seamless control of the camera through popular Windows-based astronomy applications. Additionally, Mac and Linux drivers can be made available upon request, ensuring compatibility for a wide range of users.

User Supplied (sources outlined in the user manual):

• OM3 or OM4 fiber optic cable with LC connectors on each end.
• A pair of SFP+ transceivers with LC connectors, one for each end of the cable.
• An SFP+ port on your computer.  If your computer does not have one, then you can use a Thunderbolt port, PCIe card, or a format converter to regular copper wire Ethernet.  The following options are available:
  • Thunderbolt 3 or 4 to SFP+ adapter.
  • PCIe SFP+ card.
  • Format converter box for SFP+ fiber and RJ45 copper.