Dark Clear Skies · SVBONY
SV305 Pro Colour Astronomy Camera
Sony IMX290 · USB 3.0 · ST4 guiding
Bring lunar landscapes and planetary detail onto your computer with the SVBONY SV305 Pro. Its 1920 × 1080 colour sensor, 2.9µm pixels and USB 3.0 connection support video capture for stacking, while an ST4 port gives the camera a second role in a compatible autoguiding setup.
Capture the Moon and planets in colour
The SV305 Pro suits observers taking their first steps in dedicated astronomy imaging, and imagers wanting a compact camera for lunar and planetary sessions. Record short videos, then select, align and stack the sharper frames to build your finished image. Focus, telescope collimation and atmospheric seeing all affect the result.
- Colour imaging: capture colour data without separate red, green and blue filter sequences.
- Region of interest: record a smaller part of the sensor when a planet occupies only a small area, reducing unnecessary data.
- USB 3.0 transfer: supports fast capture when paired with a suitable USB port and computer.
- Adjustable capture: set exposure and gain in supported software to suit the target and conditions.
The correct model: F9198B
This is the original SV305 Pro colour camera with the Sony IMX290 sensor and an IR650 infrared-cut protective window. The built-in window is relevant when choosing filters: this version is intended for visible-light imaging, so choose a suitable alternative camera if infrared-pass imaging is your priority.
The SV305 Pro AR, SV305M Pro monochrome and newer SV305C Pro IMX662 are separate models.
ST4 guiding when you need it
Use the six-pin ST4 socket with a compatible mount and guiding software such as PHD2. A computer measures the guide star and issues corrections; the camera does not guide the mount by itself. When the SV305 Pro is used for guiding, a separate camera records your main astronomical images.
Getting connected
- Check the telescope connection. Use the supplied 1.25-inch extension/nosepiece with a suitable focuser or adapter. Your telescope must be able to reach focus with the camera fitted.
- Install supported software. SharpCap is a Windows capture option. AstroDMx Capture also lists support for the SV305 Pro; choose the correct release for your operating system.
- Connect by USB. Use a suitable USB 3.0 port for high-speed capture, select the camera in the application and adjust focus, exposure and gain.
- Capture and process. Record your sequence and use suitable stacking software to produce the final image.
Download the current camera drivers from SVBONY’s software and driver page. Software support depends on the application and operating-system version. This camera uses a computer connection; it is not a standalone smartphone camera.
Technical specifications
| Specification | SV305 Pro — F9198B |
|---|---|
| Sensor | Sony IMX290 colour CMOS |
| Sensor format | 1/2.8-inch |
| Resolution | 1920 × 1080 pixels — approximately 2.1 megapixels |
| Pixel size | 2.9 × 2.9µm |
| Sensor dimensions | Approximately 5.6 × 3.2mm |
| Shutter | Electronic rolling shutter |
| Analogue-to-digital conversion | 12-bit |
| Full-frame speed | Manufacturer rating: up to 120fps at 1920 × 1080. Actual speed depends on exposure, capture format, USB bandwidth and computer performance. |
| Region of interest | Supported |
| Protective window | IR650 infrared-cut window |
| Computer connection | USB 3.0 |
| Guiding connection | Six-pin ST4 socket |
| Telescope fitting | 1.25-inch via supplied extension/nosepiece |
What’s included
- SVBONY SV305 Pro colour camera — F9198B
- USB 3.0 cable
- Six-pin ST4 guiding cable
- 1.25-inch extension tube/nosepiece
- C-lens adapter
- 1.25-inch dust cover
- Cleaning cloth and user manual
A telescope, mount and computer are required separately. Any additional filters, Barlow lens, guide scope or stacking software should be chosen for your own setup.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a colour or monochrome camera?
F9198B is the colour SV305 Pro. The monochrome version is the separate SV305M Pro, SKU F9198D.
Why can RAW captures look black and white?
RAW colour-camera data needs debayering to reconstruct colour. Enable the appropriate colour preview in your capture application, or debayer the files during processing.
Will it fit my telescope?
The supplied 1.25-inch connection suits a compatible focuser or adapter, but reaching focus also depends on the telescope and optical accessories. Ask Dark Clear Skies if you would like help checking a particular combination.
Can I use it for deep-sky imaging?
Lunar and planetary imaging are its main applications. Brighter deep-sky targets can be explored with suitable tracking and exposure settings, but consider the small sensor and built-in IR-cut window when planning your imaging system.
