IanKingimaging

The Atik Horizon is the first Atik CMOS Camera. It houses a 16MP sensor with exceptionally low read noise and incredibly fast read speeds. With our signature Atik blend of form and function, the Atik Horizon provides a sensitive, high megapixel sensor at a competitive price point. This makes it a great option if you’re looking to upgrade from DSLR, or have system that would benefit from shorter exposure times.

With extensive experience in both hardware and software design, the Atik Horizon turns ATIK's expertise to the world of deep-sky optimised CMOS cameras. Already known for our low-noise electronics, the Horizon has our lowest read noise yet – just ~1e- at high gain settings. The 3.8µm pixel size is an excellent match for shorter focal lengths and camera lenses; great news if you’re looking for a wide field of view.

Mechanically, the Horizon is based on ATIK's estblished 4-Series cameras, known for their power and adaptability. With a cyclindrical case measuring 74mm in diameter and 130mm in length, it’s compatible with HyperStar systems from 8″. The slight size increase on the 4-Series is to house a huge cooling delta of -40°C below ambient. This keeps thermal noise under control, wherever in the world you image from.

Advanced Hardware Deserves Advanced Software

The Atik Horizon is natively compatible with our Infinity live stacking software to give you incredible views of the night sky in a near
real-time environment. Not only is this great for video astronomers and public outreach, it also makes getting into astrophotography a breeze. Our on-the-fly image processing gets you up and running quickly, minimising the learning curve many people experience. However, our advanced functions ensure you are always in control as you steer your way through the night sky.

Live continuous stacking
Flexible histogram control, including auto-stretch functions
Live YouTube broadcast integration
Interactive session replay
Focus assist and monitoring tools
Save to FITs, PNG, JPG and TIFF formats
The Horizon is also fully compatible with our renowned Artemis Capture imaging software that gives you full control over your imaging. We also supply a full ASCOM driver so you’re free to use it with your preferred astroimaging software.

Amp Glow Control

From the outset, the Horizon has benefited from a built-in 256mb DDR3 image buffer to remove amp glow and other artifacts caused by data transfer over USB2, all while preventing issues with dropped frames. This makes for a seamless and fast imaging experience, whether you’re taking advantage of the flexibility and low cable weight of USB2, or the fast speeds of USB3.

ATIK's experience of working with demanding scientific applications has given then an advanced understanding of sealing techniques. This understanding allows ATIK to create a condensation free environment, and means your desiccant lasts much longer between recharges. The Horizon uses the same quartz fused cover glass as the Atik 383L+ camera to prevent condensation forming on the outside of the glass when the camera’s cooled. This added level of performance and reliability means you can spend less time maintaining your equipment, and more time imaging with it.

What's in the box?

Camera body with 2" adaptor
USB 3.0 cable
USB 2.0 cable
1.8 metre battery power connector
CD-ROM with drivers, software and user's manual (PDF)
Quickstart Guide (paper)
Cable post
Spare desiccant and desiccant port tool