ZWO ASI183MC Pro Cooled Color Astronomy Camera

All Pro cameras (with cooler) need to be connected to an external 11-14v power supply to image.  You can also use ASIAIR to power the cameras.

Even when the cooler is not being used the power supply must be used for the camera to be recognized.

ASI183MM Pro (mono)

ASI183MC Pro (color)

ASI183MM Pro uses Sony’s IMX183CQJ-J sensor. With a high QE-value and low provides excellent image quality at an affordable price. Some of the features include:

• 20-megapixel sensor with 2.4 μm pixel size. – able to capture 19 frames/s frame rate in 12-bit mode with high detail.
• Very low 6e- readout noise – bringing out more details in your images with improved dynamic range.
• Full-well capacity of 15ke– – reduces the risk of oversaturated stars in longer exposures.

▶IMX183CLK-J/CQJ-J

This back-illuminated, rolling shutter-type CMOS sensor has a diagonal of 15.86 mm and approximately 20.2 megapixels.

▶High-Speed and High-Picture-Quality Rolling Shutter-Type Back-Illuminated CMOS Image Sensors

Designed for astrophotography, the Sony IMX183CLK-J (monochrome) and IMX183CQJ-J (color) sensors use high-sensitivity back-illuminated structures with high resolution 2.4 μm square pixels.  The optical size is 1 inch.

DDR Memory Buffer

The ASI183 Pro camera includes a DDR3 memory buffer to help improve data transfer reliability. Additionally, the use of a memory buffer minimizes amp-glow, which is caused by the slow transfer speeds when the camera is used with a USB 2.0 port.

DDR memory buffer is the main difference between ASI “Cool” and “Pro” cameras.

Astrophotography Performance

The ASI183 cameras has an impressive list of characteristics suited for astrophotography including a large full well capacity of 15000e-, small pixel size, 1.6e read noise @ 30dB, and 12stops dynamic range @ Gain=0. The ASI183 cameras also utilize firmware features to minimize amplifier glow for maximum performance in astrophotography.

Reliable Mechanics

ASI183 Pro has same mechanics as ASI1600 Pro. There are four screws that seal the sensor chamber. Our camera design has been extensively tested and is very stable even in demanding environments.

Even when used in environments with higher humidity, ASI183 Pro will still work fine without dew problems.

High Speed

Fast FPS and high-speed readout come in handy for many applications in astrophotography such as in

• solar and lunar imaging,
• as well as for live viewing or electronically assisted astronomy (EAA)
• real-time focusing,
• true lucky imaging of double stars and other small objects,
• planetary imaging of the major planets in the solar system, and much more.

Notice: After receiving user feedback, it has been brought to our attention that this IMX183 sensor has grid pattern noise when doing Ha solar imaging. To alleviate this issue, please take flat frames for calibration (out of focus or add a Barlow lens to take flat frames). We recommend our ASI1600/ASI174 mono camera for Ha solar imaging.

10Bit ADC
5496×3672    19fps
3840×2160    41.04fps
1920×1080    80.10fps
1280×720      117.30fps
12bit ADC    
5496×3672    19fps
3840×2160    36.12fps
1920×1080    70.48fps
1280×720      103.23fps

High QE

Sony’s back-illuminated Exmor R technology, giving it excellent Deep Sky performance. ASI183 QE peak reaches a respectable 84%. In Ha channel, QE is still over 60%.

Having high QE means that more of the light that enters your telescope and reaches the sensor is actually used. With 84% peak Q.E. and no less than ~50% within the visible spectrum, the ASI183 will utilize a high percentage of the light that reaches it, improving your signal quality.

ASI183MM Pro (mono)

ASI183MC Pro (color)

Dark Current

The dark current of the ASI183 is extremely low, based on our test results.

Dark frame sample @ Highest dynamic range settings(gain=0), 300s, -10°C, bin1. Please check the dark frame to make sure you are fully know the performance.

USB 3.0 Port & USB2.0 HUB

USB 3.0 Port: Provide 5Gb bandwidth to make it possible for ASI183 Pro to run at 19 fps (12bit, normal mode) or 19 fps (10bit, high speed mode)  at full resolution(20.18Mega).

USB 2.0 HUB: can connect with various accessories, such as filter wheel, guide camera and electronic focuser, so you can better manage your cables. The ASI183 Pro includes two short 0.5m USB 2.0 cables. The integrated USB 2.0 hub is powered by the external power source if you connect one.

ASI183MM Pro (mono)

ASI183MC Pro (color)

Cooling System

Thanks to the two stage TEC cooling, ASI183MC Pro can lower the sensor temperature to more than 35 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature, which can greatly reduce dark current generation and sensor noise even during extended exposure times.

*The Delta T 35℃ is tested at 30℃ ambient temperature. It might get down when the cooling system is working for a long time. Also, as the ambient temperature falls, the Delta T would also decrease.

Please notice that the camera needs to be connected to an external 11-14v power supply to implement the cooling function. We recommend you use 12V@3A DC adapter (5.5*2.1mm, center pole positive) or lithium battery with 11-14V to power the camera. If you don’t have one, please click here to buy a 12V power adapter. There are 4 different standards for different countries, please make sure you selected the correct adapter when placing the order.

Connecting Diagram

ASI183MM Pro (mono)

1. M43-T2 adapter  (optional)

2. EOS-T2 adapter  (optional)

3. 2”Filter (optional)

4. 1.25” T-Mount

5. 1.25” Filter (optional)

6. M42-1.25” Filter (optional)

7. T2 extender 11mm

8. M42-M48 extender 16.5mm

9. T2-T2 adapter

10. EFW mini(optional)

11. EOS adapter for EFW(optional)

ASI183MC Pro (color)

1. M43-T2 adapter

2. EOS-T2 adapter

3. 2”Filter (optional)

4. 1.25” T-Mount

5. 1.25” Filter (optional)

6. M42-1.25” adapter (optional)

7. T2 extender 11mm

Mechanical Diagram

What is in the box?

ASI183 Pro box includes all necessary cables, adapters, and manuals.

Spacer thickness: 0.1mm *1+0.2mm *2+0.5mm *1

The best solution of 55mm back focus length

ASI183MM Pro (mono)

ASI183MC Pro (color)

1.1 How can I check the shipping cost for my order?
You can add the items you want to your shopping cart, enter your country/state/city/postal code, and then view the shipping options and costs on the cart page. Before checkout, you can choose your preferred shipping speed/method/carrier.

You can also contact us and send us the item model, quantity, and shipping requirements. We will calculate the accurate shipping cost for you and inform you accordingly.

1.2 How are free shipping items delivered?
Items marked as "Free Shipping" on the product page mean you do not need to pay any shipping fees. This usually applies to buyers from any country (except for certain special countries or regions).

For free shipping items, buyers cannot choose the shipping method. We will select the shipping method based on the destination country.
Typically, we use standard surface shipping methods such as 4PX, EMS, or local postal services.
We may also use UPS, FedEx, DHL, Aramex, etc., depending on the specific order and country. The final choice is at our discretion. Regardless of the shipping method used, we will notify you upon dispatch and provide a tracking number and tracking website.

• Standard tracking website: https://www.17track.net/en
• UPS: https://www.ups.com/
• FedEx: https://www.fedex.com/
• DHL: https://www.dhl.com/

Please note: If you return an item (excluding quality issues or incorrect items), you will be charged for all shipping costs incurred, including delivery, return, and customs fees.

1.3 What if I want to specify a shipping method for a free shipping item?
If you want to specify a particular shipping method (e.g., UPS or DHL) for a free shipping item, please contact us before placing your order. You will need to pay additional shipping fees, and we will ship via your preferred method.

1.4 What if I buy multiple items, some with free shipping and some that require shipping fees?
You can place your order as usual. You only need to pay shipping fees for the non-free shipping items.
If you want to specify a shipping method or have other special requests, please contact us.

1.5 How long does it take to ship my order?
After receiving your order, we need some time to process it.
Orders received before 5:00 PM China time will be shipped within 3 days.
Orders received after 5:00 PM China time will be shipped within 4 days.
Orders placed during Chinese public holidays may be delayed by 1–2 days (due to courier holidays).

1.6 When will I receive my package?
Delivery time varies depending on the shipping method used:

• 4PX, Postal Services, EMS, etc.: about 15–25 days
• UPS: about 7–15 days
• FedEx: about 7–10 days
• DHL: about 5–9 days

These are estimated times. Actual delivery is subject to the carrier's schedule.

If your package tracking has not been updated for a long time, please contact us.
If you haven't received your package after a long period, please contact us.
If there are any other irregularities, please contact us.

Please note:
After we ship your package, it may take 2–3 days for tracking information to become available.
Based on our experience, packages shipped to South America and Central Asia typically take longer.
Shipping around public holidays may result in delays due to carrier workload.

If delays occur, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding. We share the same desire as our customers—we hope every package is delivered quickly and safely.

If you want a faster and more secure delivery, we strongly recommend choosing UPS, FedEx, or DHL.

1.7 What does it mean when tracking shows "Label Created" but the order hasn't shipped yet?
When we provide a tracking number, your package has already left our warehouse.
However, the tracking status may show "Label Created" or "Awaiting Package" because the package is still en route to the courier's sorting facility.
Due to China's vast geography, transit between cities can span over 1,000 km, so it takes time.
It may also be undergoing export customs clearance. Your package should be delivered soon.

If your tracking status doesn’t update for a long time, please contact us.

1.8 What if my package needs special delivery instructions or other requests?
If your shipment requires an invoice to be attached, special packaging, delayed dispatch, or other requests, please contact us.
We will do our best to accommodate your needs and provide the best service possible.

1.9 About receiving the package
Whether you sign for the package personally or through a representative, it is considered as acceptance of the package, the quantity, and the included items.
To protect your rights, we strongly recommend recording a video while opening the package and verifying it against the order and packing list.

1.10 I don’t live in China. Can I have my order shipped to a Chinese address?
Yes, you can. Just place your order and provide a Chinese recipient address.
For orders shipped within China, we do not charge any shipping fees. If your item shows a shipping fee, please contact us to have the fee waived.

You are responsible for all applicable taxes and fees that may be imposed by your country or region, including but not limited to import duties, value-added tax (VAT), customs handling fees, and other similar charges.

These import duties, VAT, and customs fees are not included in our product prices or shipping charges.
We have no control over, and cannot predict, these charges or how they will be collected—whether they will be charged at the time of delivery or through other means.

Customs policies vary greatly by country. Some countries (such as Brazil, India, etc.) strictly enforce high duties and additional taxes.

It is your responsibility to check with your local customs office before purchase to determine what additional costs may apply.

Customs fees are usually charged by your local courier or postal service, often at the time of delivery or pick-up. The shipping carrier (especially UPS) may also charge brokerage or clearance fees for handling customs on your behalf. These are not unpaid shipping charges and must be fully covered by you.

If the package is returned, held, or destroyed due to the buyer’s refusal or failure to pay customs duties, any resulting costs will be borne entirely by the buyer. These costs will be deducted from your refund.

1.1 What is your return policy?
I ordered the wrong item/size, or I changed my mind—can I return it?
I received the item but decided I don’t like it—can I return it?
I received the item but found it’s not suitable for me, or I found a better option—can I return it?

In the above cases, we accept returns within 30 days of receiving the item, provided that the product is in brand new and unused condition.

• Buyers must apply for a return and send the product back to us within 30 days of receipt.
• You are responsible for all return shipping costs.
• We will deduct the original shipping cost incurred to deliver the item to you.
• We will deduct 4% for credit card or PayPal transaction fees.
• If you choose to receive a store credit instead of a refund, we will waive this 4% fee.
• If the returned item shows signs of use, a handling fee may be charged.

If the returned item is damaged, missing parts, or shows excessive wear, we reserve the right to reject the return and no refund will be issued.

1.2 Where should I send the return?
Please contact us for the correct return shipping address. (The return address may not be located in Mainland China.)
Please ensure the item is properly packaged and that the original product packaging is not damaged.

Important: Do NOT return the product to the sender’s address shown on the parcel. You must contact us first to obtain the correct return address. Unauthorized returns may be lost or undeliverable—any such loss will be fully borne by the buyer.

1.3 Can I return or exchange the item after 30 days?
For any reason, we do not accept returns or exchanges after 30 days.
30 days is considered a very reasonable and standard return period for online purchases.

1.4 What if I received a wrong or defective item?
Please contact us within 3 days of receiving the item and provide photo evidence or a clear description of the issue. We will promptly send a replacement item.

If you return the item to us:

• Please use the least expensive shipping method.
• We will reimburse part of the shipping fee from your original order as compensation.

If you’re unable to return the item or don’t know how to ship it, please contact us—we may provide a free return shipping label.

1.5 How will I receive my refund? How long does it take?
We will process the refund within 7 days of receiving your returned item.
Refunds are usually issued via the original payment method.
Processing the refund involves internal verification and approval by management, so we appreciate your understanding and patience.