ToupTek ATR2600C Cooled Colour Astronomy Camera UK
The ToupTek ATR2600C is a cooled one-shot-colour deep-sky camera built around the Sony IMX571C APS-C sensor. It combines 26MP resolution, 3.76µm pixels, 16-bit output and regulated two-stage TEC cooling for dedicated astrophotography.
ToupTek ATR2600C Cooled Colour Astronomy Camera
The ToupTek ATR2600C combines a Sony IMX571C sensor with regulated cooling for dedicated astrophotography. Its APS-C format and 3.76 µm pixels provide a distinct option when matching your camera to your telescope.
Choosing the ATR2600C
The APS-C format gives generous framing for nebulae, galaxy groups and star fields. Pair it with optics that provide a suitably corrected image circle, and choose filters and adapters that keep the corners illuminated. The larger files also make storage capacity and a reliable capture computer worth planning in advance.
Capture colour data without changing between separate red, green and blue filters. Select any additional light-pollution or narrowband filter to suit your target, optics and processing workflow.
Key specifications
| Model | ATR2600C |
|---|---|
| Sensor | Sony IMX571C CMOS |
| Imaging type | Colour |
| Optical format | APS-C |
| Resolution | 6224 × 4168 pixels |
| Approximate image size | 26 megapixels |
| Pixel size | 3.76 µm |
| ADC / output | 16-bit |
| Buffer | 512MB DDR3 |
| Cooling | Two-stage TEC; up to 42°C below ambient |
| Maximum exposure | 3,600 seconds |
| Window heater | Four adjustable levels; approximately 5W |
| Power | 12V DC, 3A; regulated supply required |
| Computer connection | USB 3.0; USB 2.0 compatible |
| Camera thread | M42 × 0.75 |
| Back focus | 17.5mm |
| Camera-only weight | 577g |
Cooling and calibration
Regulated cooling helps reduce thermal noise during long exposures. The quoted cooling difference is relative to ambient temperature; achievable performance depends on conditions and operating mode. Choose a temperature your setup can hold consistently through the session.
ToupTek specifies a zero amp-glow design. The window heater helps control condensation. Calibration remains part of a good imaging workflow, including flats to correct uneven illumination and dust shadows.
Planning your imaging setup
Provide a stable external 12V supply and connect the camera to a suitable capture computer or supported astronomy controller. Install the current ToupTek software and drivers before your first session. Check application support for your operating system and camera model.
Calculate spacing from your telescope or corrector to the sensor before adding a filter wheel, drawer or off-axis guider. The complete optical path matters: each adapter and accessory contributes to the distance. Secure cables so they cannot pull on the camera as the mount moves.
Standard package
The manufacturer's standard-package illustration below identifies the camera and supplied accessories. Telescope, mount, filter wheel and imaging filters shown in connection examples are separate equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Is the ATR2600C a colour or monochrome camera?
It is a one-shot colour camera. Its colour filter array records colour information in each exposure; debayering converts the raw data into a colour image.
Do I still need calibration frames?
Yes. Use flats for dust shadows and uneven illumination, and suitable dark and bias or dark-flat frames for your capture workflow. Match calibration settings to your light frames.
How do I check whether it suits my telescope?
Compare the sensor size and pixel size with your focal length, target dimensions and typical seeing. Also check the optical connection, required spacing, filter aperture and focuser load.
Does the camera replace a tracking mount?
No. Deep-sky exposures still require suitable tracking. Guiding, accurate polar alignment and stable focus may be needed depending on your focal length and exposure length.
Build your ToupTek imaging system
Browse the ToupTek deep-sky camera range and ToupTek control & imaging accessories, including compatible controllers and imaging hardware.