ZWO ASI2600 MC Pro (2025 Version)

ZWO’s ASI2600MC Pro (2025) builds on one of the most popular deep-sky cameras ever made. The updated model features refined thermal design, faster and more stable data transmission, and exceptional image quality driven by the Sony IMX571 sensor. It’s a camera that delivers the kind of detail and consistency astrophotographers demand night after night.

At the heart of the ASI2600MC Pro is Sony’s APS-C format IMX571 sensor, measuring 23.5 × 15.7 mm with a 28.3 mm diagonal. It delivers 6248 × 4176 resolution for a total of 26 megapixels, with each 3.76 μm pixel offering a generous full-well capacity of 73ke⁻. The result is crisp, richly detailed color images and excellent signal handling.

ZWO’s zero amp glow circuitry ensures that even long exposures at high gain stay free from the typical bright corner artifacts found in many CMOS sensors. Combined with the 512MB DDR3 memory buffer and high-speed USB 3.0 interface, the ASI2600MC Pro transfers image data quickly and reliably without dropped frames or lag.

At 0°C, dark current measures just 0.0022 e⁻/s/pix — even over a five-minute exposure, the total dark current noise is only 0.7 e⁻. When cooled to –20°C, this value drops to 0.00012 e⁻/s/pix, producing incredibly clean frames that preserve the finest details.

Thoughtful Mechanical Design

The body itself is precision-machined aluminum, providing durability and effective heat dissipation while keeping total weight to just 1.54 lbs (0.7 kg).

Quantum Efficiency & Sensitivity

With a peak quantum efficiency (QE) of 80%, the ASI2600MC Pro captures light efficiently across the visible spectrum, translating more photons into data. This exceptional sensitivity allows shorter exposures and higher-quality signal even under light-polluted skies.

Connection & Backfocus

The ASI2600MC Pro includes multiple threaded interfaces and adapters to ensure flexible connection to a wide range of telescopes and accessories. Maintaining the standard 55mm backfocus requirement, the camera integrates easily with common reducers, flatteners, and filter systems.

Specifications

• Sensor: Sony IMX571 APS-C CMOS (color)
• Resolution: 6248 × 4176 (26MP)
• Pixel Size: 3.76 μm
• Sensor Size: 23.5 × 15.7 mm (28.3 mm diagonal)
• ADC: 16-bit
• Dynamic Range: 14 stops
• Full Well Capacity: 73ke⁻
• Read Noise: 1.0 e⁻ (HCG mode)
• Cooling: Two-stage TEC, ΔT 30–35°C below ambient
• Dark Current: 0.0022 e⁻/s/pix at 0°C; 0.00012 e⁻/s/pix at –20°C
• QE Peak: 80%
• Interface: USB 3.0 Type-B
• Buffer: 512MB DDR3 memory
• Tilt Adjustment: Yes, 3-point adjustable plate
• Heater: Integrated anti-dew polyimide heater
• Weight: 0.7 kg (1.54 lbs)
• Backfocus Distance: 55 mm
• Cooling Power: Two-stage TEC (12V DC, 3A recommended)

What’s in the Box