SBIG AO-X Adaptive Optics

SBIG AO-X Adaptive Optics

$2,299.00 USD

The next-generation of adaptive optics for our SBIG large-format cameras.  Requires a StarChaser SC-3 guide camera (or an older self-guiding system).

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SKU: AO-X
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Product Description

The SBIG AO-X is a large aperture AO designed to be compatible with all large format SBIG cameras.  It requires an off-axis guide camera behind the AO; typically the  StarChaser SC-3 is used.

The AO-X is compatible with the Aluma AC4040 and Aluma AC2020 cameras, when used with a StarChaser SC-3.

AO-X is also compatible with older STX-16803, STXL-16200, STXL-11000, and STXL-6303 cameras.  Guiding can be performed via a StarChaser SC-3, or through older guide systems including STX Guider, FW8G-STXL self-guided filter wheels, the built-in guide sensor on some STX cameras, or a Remote Guide Head with an off-axis guider behind the AO-X.

Note:  When using with StarChaser with AO, you will need a StarChaser to AO-X/AO-8T Adapter Cable.  The necessary adapter cable is included in our StarChaser SC-3 / AO-X Bundle.

AO Results

The images below are actual star images showing the effect of image wander corrected at 1 Hz and 10 Hz:

ao_mov_1hz1 Hz Corrections

ao_mov_10hz 10 Hz Corrections

And the resulting size of the star image in a long exposure:

aox-1hz-corrected1 Hz Corrections

aox-10hz-corrected10 Hz Corrections

Other data gathered by Brad Wallis of JPL (Brad Wallis and Benoit Schillings developed the prototype for the original AO-7) show the the effect of rapid corrections on poor seeing.  At 1 Hz the larger, slower component is reduced, but the amplitude of the jitter remains about the same:

ao_1hz

However, at a 5Hz correction rate, the faster jitter is reduced:

ao_5hz

And at a 10 Hz correction rate, significant improvement is seen:

ao_10hz

The improvement in stellar profiles can also be seen at corrections above 1 Hz.  First by looking at the non-AO guided image:

aox_img2

And comparing the non-AO guided image to the AO guided image there is again significant improvement in the FWHM of the star profile:

ao_img2

Telescope mounts cannot correct faster than about once per second.  The 10Hz rate of the AO-X will clearly result in improved resolution under the right conditions.

Download Product Data Sheet

Additional Information

Power

Supplied through Camera’s I2C Port

OS Compatibility

Windows 32 and 64 bit OS, Mac

Computer Interface

I2C

Dimensions

6 x 7 x 1.2 in.

Weight

2.2 lbs (1 kg)

Specification Sheet

Technical specifications for the AO-X.

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User’s Manual

Installation and operation instructions for your AO-X adaptive optics unit.

Download

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