Player One ZEUS 455M PRO (IMX455) USB3.0 Mono Cooled Camera

DSO cooled camera line is the most advanced product line in Player One history.

We start the project from 2021, through a lot of modify and rebuild we made this final version.

It brings our newest technology and design to everyone, we are very proud to introduce this camera line.

Power supply is not include in camera package,Please use a power adapter with a minimum rating of 5A.

high quality 12V 5A power supply link: https://player-one-astronomy.com/product/12v-5a-power-supply-dc5-5-x-2-1mm/

Drivers and softwares download: http://player-one-astronomy.com/service/software/

Manuals download: http://player-one-astronomy.com/service/manuals/

ZEUS 455M KIT setup tutorial (Demostrate with Poseidon-M PRO KIT):

Product Description

ZEUS 455M Pro cooled camera is developed by Player One Astronomy, it’s design for advanced DSO imaging. it adopts Sony IMX455ALK-Kfull-frame format monochrome sensor. The 3.76um pixel size accommodates a well depth of 71.6Ke with a total of 61MP  (the resolution is 9576*6388), and the diagonal is 43.3mm.

New Cutting-edge Design

Polygon like regular hexagon is very Player One, the DSO cooled cameras we want to make it more beautiful and practical. After a lot of trying,  we fix the final style, which uses a scientific and technological octagon to construct the main body line and 4 sides are cambered surface, supplemented by round chamfers to achieve both rigidity and flexibility. The front piece is round to avoid diffraction on RASA. The camera body is a vibrant red, accentuated with classic black trim.The sandblasted coating on the outer surface makes the camera look luxurious and cool, while inside this is a solid scientific instrument.

Rear Adjustment 4 Point Sensor Tilt Plate

When taking deepsky objects, using sensor tilt plate can get a much smaller field curvature of the telescope. We adopts rear Adjustment and 4 point tilt plate, it has a lot advantages in usage.

4 Point adjustment is easier to know which corner is needed to adjust. The built-in high-density sponge shading pad can block the light from the side slits without any side leakage.

For understand 4 point adjustment method, we made a example for users:

Deep Cooling

Player One cooled camera series use 2 Stage TEC Cooling unit, after improved the structure design to reject the heat back to camera chamber, Zeus Camera Delta-T can reach about 35℃.

512MB DDR3 Cache

As an improvement, DDR3 cache in cooled cameras are increased to 512MB. It helps stabilize and secure data transmission, it effectively avoids frame dropping and greatly reduces readout noise.

With the DDR3 cache, the camera does not have high demands on computing needs any longer, it will still has excellent performance even if it is connected to a USB 2.0 port.

STARVIS Technology

ZEUS 455M Pro cooled camera based on Sony STARVIS technology, it is back-illuminated pixel technology used in CMOS image sensors.

Full-Frame Format

ZEUS 455M Pro cooled camera has full-frame format (36mm*24mm), it is very suitable for professional DSO imaging.

Native 16bit ADC

IMX455 has native 16-bit on-chip ADC. Native 16bit ADC (65536 levels) provide higher sample resolution than 12bit (4096 levels) or 14bit (16384 levels). When we do non-linear transformation, 16bit data can endure very strong transform and also could bring much better light and dark transition, furthermore 16bit can make the color more vivid.

Non-Amp-Glow

ZEUS 455M Pro cooled camera is a Non-Amp-Glow camera too!

300s, gain=0, offset=5, dark frame at -5℃ of ZEUS 455M Pro cooled camera: DOWNLOAD

Preview of Dark frame: Exposure=300s, gain=0, offset=5, temp=-5℃   STF auto-Stretch in Pixinsight 1.86

Non-Amp-Glow can give us very clean background, much easier to get high quaility images.

Type-C Data port and Power port

Back piece of cooled camera has 2 Type-C data port and 12V DC 5.5×2.1mm power port.

Main data port support USB3.0 protocol, the camera can run 6.5fps under RAW8 mode. Type-C port is easier to plug in when assemble the imaging equipment in night.

When recording images, since the actual writing speed will be affected by the writing speed of the hard disk itself, when the hard disk writing speed is slow, the recording may not reach the theoretical speed. It is recommended that you use a high-quality solid state drive to record data to give full play to the performance of the camera.

The camera has 12V DC5.5*2.1mm port to provide enough power to TEC cooling system. If you don’t need to power up cooling, only need to connect the main Type-C port, the camera will works as a uncooled camera.

Standard Cable Usage

Cooling System and Anti-Dew Heater

In ASCOM window, we provide 3 adjustable parameters: Target temperature, Fan Speed and Anti-Dew power.

Standard Delta-T: 35℃ (±2℃) , when ambient temp 30℃, fan speed 100%, dew heater 10%.

Recommend Delta-T settings: 30℃ below ambient, fan speed 70%, dew heater 10%, power consumption 40- 60%.

The rotation speed of cooling fan is also adjustable, the default value is 70% speed.

Dew problem is the biggest enemy in astro imaging, the camera integrated anti-dew heater in front of the camera. The heat power is adjustable.

Overvoltage and overcurrent protection mechanism

Player One cameras produced by us ensures the safety of your camera and other equipment through overvoltage and overcurrent protection mechanisms.

Performance

Dual Sampling Mode

ZEUS series has dual sampling mode. Normal mode and Low Noise mode, they has different advantages in imaging.

1. Normal mode has faster FPS, it is more suitable for planetary imaging.

2. Low Noise mode (LRN) mode has lower readout noise and higher dynamic range. it is more suitable for DSO imaging.

At gain=0, the camera has 14.2 stops dynamic range and 71.6Ke full well capacity, readout noise is 4.2e.

HCG open at gain=125, the camera has 13.5 stops dynamic range and 16.7Ke full well, readout noise drop to only 1.5e.

Frame rate

ZEUS 455M Pro cooled camera can run 6.5FPS under RAW8 mode, 3.2FPS under RAW16 mode.

Extended Full well

ZEUS 455M Pro cooled camera has 71.6Ke full well.

Readout Noise

Regarding readout noise, we promise that all values are obtained from actual tests.  And for users, you could use Sharpcap 4 for testing. SC4 has a function called Sensor Analysis, provide a very simple way to test readout noise.

If you are interested in readout noise testing, you may try it yourself, which is very simple.

Dark Current

The dark current is only 0.00014 e/s/pix at -20℃, and 0.00154e/s/pix at 0℃. In entire curve, dark current is almost like a straght a line, which can prove that ZEUS camera has very good quality.

QE Curve

Mechanical Drawing

BFL Solutions

Notice: Some BFL solution is 56mm (Compensate light path differences which caused by filters)

Package List

Highlight

SH2-115 by Univers-Astro

Imaging Telescopes Or Lenses: Askar FRA600
Imaging Cameras: Player One Zeus-M Pro
Mounts: Pegasus Astro NYX-101

IC1396 by Univers-Astro

Imaging Telescopes Or Lenses: Askar FRA600
Imaging Cameras: Player One Zeus-M Pro
Mounts: Pegasus Astro NYX-101

SH2-115 HOO by Le Mouellic Guillaume

Imaging Telescopes Or Lenses: Askar FRA600Imaging Cameras: Player One Zeus-M ProMounts: Pegasus Astro NYX-101

NGC 2264 by Space Cadet Academy

Imaging Telescopes Or Lenses: Takahashi FSQ-106EDX4
Imaging Cameras: Player One Zeus-M ProMounts: ZWO AM5

M51 in RGBHa by Philippe Oros

Imaging Telescopes Or Lenses: CFF Telescopes Refractor 200mmf/6.5
Imaging Cameras: Player One Zeus-M ProMounts: Astro-Physics 1100GTO-AE

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.