ZWO has changed the game again. The ASI2600MM Air is here. And it’s not just a camera, it’s an ecosystem in a box. Astrophotographers, from beginners to experts, will find this tool incredibly useful. It packs power, convenience, and intelligence into one sleek device. Let’s take a deep dive into everything this new product offers.
A quick introduction
The ASI2600MM Air is a monochrome astronomy camera. But it’s also a smart controller. It merges ZWO’s flagship imaging technology with the brains of an ASIAIR. You no longer need a separate controller, storage device, and camera. This single unit does it all. ZWO designed it for deep-sky imaging. But it works well for live stacking, planetary shots, and even Electronically Assisted Astronomy (EAA).
The sensor: Sony IMX571 at the core
At its heart lies the Sony IMX571 CMOS sensor. This is a 26-megapixel sensor with 6248×4176 resolution. It offers a 3.76 μm pixel size, perfect for detailed imaging across various telescope focal lengths.
Some key highlights:
- Back-illuminated sensor: Better low-light performance.
- 14-bit ADC: Smooth tonal gradation and wide dynamic range.
- Full well capacity: Up to 50,000 e⁻ (expandable to 73,000 e⁻ in extended full well mode).
- Quantum efficiency (QE): Around 80% peak QE for maximum photon collection.
- Read noise: As low as 0.9e⁻, great for faint targets.
This is the same sensor found in the popular ASI2600MM Pro. But here, it’s merged with a smart core.
Built-in guide camera
That’s right. This camera has two sensors. In addition to the main IMX571 sensor, it also features a built-in guiding sensor: the SC2210 mono sensor.
Specifications of the guide sensor:
- 1920×1080 resolution
- 4μm pixel size
- High sensitivity with a peak QE of 92%
- Ultra-low read noise of 0.6e⁻
This means you no longer need a separate guide scope and camera. The integrated guide camera works directly with your setup. It simplifies your rig and saves power and cabling.
Smart control via ASIAIR OS
The ASI2600MM Air isn’t just a camera. It runs the ASIAIR operating system. This is the same software that powers the popular ASIAIR Plus.
This gives you:
- Wireless control via smartphone, tablet, or PC.
- Support for guiding, plate solving, live stacking, polar alignment, and more.
- Access to ZWO’s clean and responsive app interface.
- No need to carry a laptop into the field.
You can control your entire imaging session from your phone.
Powerful internal storage and RAM
The ASI2600MM Air includes a 256GB onboard eMMC drive. It reads and writes fast (138MB/s and 112MB/s, respectively). This storage can hold several hours of raw data. Plus, it comes with 2GB of DDR4 RAM for fast processing. This allows smooth operation of the ASIAIR OS even while imaging and guiding. And if you need more space? Plug in an external USB drive up to 1 TB.
Connection options
The camera supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi. This gives you a stable and fast connection for wireless control. Bluetooth also enables initial pairing and simple device management. It improves connection reliability in busy environments.
ZWO has also included multiple physical port options:
- 3×12V DC output ports: Power your mount, dew heaters, or other devices.
- 1×12V DC input: Supply the camera itself.
- 4×USB 2.0 ports: Connect filter wheels, EAF, or other accessories.
- 1×USB-C port: Fast data transfer and future compatibility.
Cooling and dew prevention
Long exposures generate heat. But the ASI2600MM Air features a two-stage TEC cooling system. It cools the sensor by up to 35°C below ambient. This greatly reduces thermal noise.
A built-in polyimide heater prevents dew from forming on the sensor window. Your imaging session stays smooth, even in humid conditions.
Price and availability
The ASI2600MM Air is available via ZWO and authorized retailers worldwide for $2,499.
The ASI2600MM Air is more than just a camera. It is a complete imaging solution that combines professional-grade imaging with wireless automation. Not only does it reduce setup time and cable clutter, but it also simplifies your imaging workflow. This is the future of astrophotography: integrated, intelligent, and incredibly powerful. If you’re looking to upgrade your imaging rig or start fresh with something compact and complete, the ASI2600MM Air is a top contender. It brings professional performance in a beginner-friendly package.
Clear skies!
