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ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera

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ZWO
0607467928276
SKU
ZWO-ASI533MC-P

The ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera offers 9MP resolution, 3.76μm pixels, zero amp glow, 10-stop dynamic range, and efficient cooling for clear, detailed planetary and deep sky imaging with minimal noise.

RRP $1,429.00 RRP TODAYS PRICE $1,199.00

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    An affordable entry-level deep sky camera

     

    The ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera is a great beginner-friendly option for both planetary and deep space imaging. Featuring the advanced Sony IMX533MC square sensor with 9MP resolution (3008×3008) and 3.76μm pixel size, the ZWO 533 delivers exceptional image quality and detail.

    ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera - Specifications

    As part of the ZWO 533 camera series, the ASI 533MC benefits from zero amp glow, a low 1.0e read noise, and high dynamic range, making it an ideal option for long-exposure astrophotography and capturing faint deep-sky objects. Its modern back-illuminated sensor design enhances light sensitivity and reduces noise compared to traditional front-illuminated sensors.

    ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour CMOS Camera Zero Amp Glow

    With built-in TEC cooling, the ASI533MC Pro can achieve a ΔT of 35°C below ambient, helping keep thermal noise under control for consistently clean images during extended imaging sessions. A 256MB DDR3 buffer ensures reliable data transfer during long captures.

    ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour CMOS Camera TEC Cooling

     

    Thanks to innovative circuitry, the ASI533MC Pro completely eliminates amp glow even at high gain settings and long exposures, making it perfect for capturing clean, high-contrast astrophotography images.

    ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour CMOS Camera 3D

    Camera Performance

    QE Graph

    The ZWO ASI533MC Pro delivers peak quantum efficiency of around 80% near 530nm (green light) and maintains high sensitivity across the visible spectrum from 450–650nm. It captures faint astronomical targets with excellent performance for both planetary and deep-sky imaging. Sensitivity tapers off below 400nm and above 750nm, as expected for CMOS sensors, while its modern design eliminates amp glow and keeps noise low.

    ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour CMOS Camera QE Graph

     

     

     

    Full Specifications

    Type Colour
    Sensor Type IMX533
    Sensor Size 11.31x11.31mm
    Pixel Size 3.76 μm
    Read Noise 1.0e
    Resolution 9MP (3008x3008)
    Max Framerate 20 FPS 
    Zero Amp Glow? Yes
    Delta T 35°C below ambient
    Memory Buffer 256MB DDR3
    Shutter Rolling Shutter
    QE Peak 80%
    Full Well 50,000e
    Back Focus 6.5mm
    ADC 14-bit
    Exposure Range 32μs-2000s
    USB 3.0
    Adapter M42 X 0.75
    Weight 700 g

     

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    Camera Connection

    How to achieve a 55m back focus with an astronomy camera and a telescope with either a M42 or M48 thread

    Mechanical Drawing
    ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera Mechanical Drawing

    About ZWO Optical

    Astrophotography has never been easier.

    Established in 2011, ZWO Optical is a fast-growing global astroimaging camera powerhouse based in Suzhou China. They focus on building and innovating ground-breaking CMOS cameras such as the iconic ZWO ASI120MM Monochrome CMOS camera (the first-ever planetary CMOS camera to beat a CCD in the early 2010s). ZWO continues to pioneer new astrophotography technology with revolutionary features to capture exceptional quality of images of space that will last you a lifetime. Today, ZWO cameras are recognised by every passionate astrophotographer and are available in over 25 countries internationally.

    Product Code: ASI533MC-P

    More Information
    Colour / MonochromeColour
    Sensor TypeIMX533
    Sensor Size1"
    Resolution9MP (3008*3008)
    Pixel Size3.76μm
    ADC14bit
    Read Noise1.0-3.8e
    USB3.0/2.0
    FPS20fps
    ShutterRolling Shutter
    QE Peak80%
    Full Well50000e
    Exposure Range32μs-2000s
    Back Focus17.5mm
    PowerUSB
    Cooled?Yes
    Working Temperature-5°C—45°C
    Storage Temperature-20°C—60°C
    Humidity20%—80%
    UsageDeep Sky Imaging
    Camera Weight470g
    Warranty Information2 Years
    Additional Specifications of ProductMax FPS at full resolution: 14Bit ADC 3008×3008 19.88fps 1920×1080 54.11fps 1280×720 79.74fps 640×480 116.55ps 320×240 216.45fps
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    Image Item Qty
    ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera - Body 1
    Cover 1
    1.25" Nosepiece 1
    M42-M48 Adapter 1
    T2-M48 Extender (16.5mm) 1
    T2-1.25" Adapter 1
    T2 Extender (21mm) 1
    Spacer  4
    USB 2.0 Cable (0.5m) 2
    USB 3.0 Cable (2m) 1
    Instruction Manual 1
    Soft carry bag for camera 1

     

    Q1. What is the standard backfocus distance for ZWO cameras?

    All ZWO cameras have a standard backfocus of 55mm. This matches the optical design of most flatteners and reducers. Always check your reducer/flattener manual to confirm the required distance.

     

    Q2. How do I achieve 55mm backfocus with a ZWO cooled camera?

    Start with the camera sensor to flange distance, typically 17.5mm, then add spacers and accessories to reach 55mm total. For example: 17.5mm (camera), 21mm (M42 extension ring) or filter drawer, 16.5mm (M42-M48 adapter or OAG). This gives a total of 55mm.



    Q3. How do I calculate backfocus when using a ZWO filter wheel?

    ZWO’s 5 Position 1.25"/31mm/36mm filter wheels and filter drawers add 20mm-21mm of backfocus.
    For a typical setup: 17.5mm (camera), 20mm (filter wheel), 16.5mm (M42 extension or adapter) for a Total = 54–55mm. 

     

    Q4. How do I set backfocus when using a ZWO OAG (Off-Axis Guider)?

    The ZWO OAG adds about 16.5mm of backfocus. A sample setup might look like: 17.5mm (camera) + 16.5mm (OAG) +21mm (extension ring) Total = 55mm.

    Note: The OAG prism needs to be aligned with the sensor for proper guiding.



    Q5. How do filters affect backfocus with ZWO cameras?
    Filters, especially in a filter drawer or wheel, shift focus slightly—typically 1/3 the thickness of the filter. For a 2mm thick filter, this means reducing the backfocus by about 0.66mm. ZWO already accounts for this in their 55mm recommendation, assuming standard filters are used.

     

    Q6. What if my stars look distorted at the edges—could it be a backfocus issue?
    Yes, coma, elongated stars, or blurry edges are common signs of incorrect backfocus. Double-check each spacer’s thickness, make sure components are properly threaded, and measure the total optical path to ensure it equals the required backfocus.



    Q7. Do ZWO planetary and guide cameras require a backfocus setup?
    No, uncooled ZWO planetary or guide cameras (e.g. ASI178MM, ASI662MC, ASI174MM Mini) are usually connected directly via 1.25" nosepiece and don’t require backfocus spacing unless used with optics (e.g. OAG or Barlow). They are focused by adjusting position in the focuser or OAG helical focuser.

     

    Q8. What software can I use with my ASI camera?

    The ASI Caemra range is compatible with a wide range of astrophotography software. You can use:

    ZWO ASIAIR for a mobile-friendly, all-in-one imaging solution (requires ASIAIR Plus sold separtely), ZWO’s native Windows/Mac drivers with ASIStudio, third-party software such as NINA, SharpCap, APT, Sequence Generator Pro, and FireCapture, using ZWO’s ASCOM and native SDK drivers. 

    Make sure your software is updated to the latest version to ensure full support for this full-frame camera.

     

    Q9. Does the ZWO ASI Cameras  work with ASIAIR?

    Yes, ASI cameras is fully supported by ASIAIR. You can control cooling (for cooled cameras), gain, offset, exposures, filters (if connected via EFW), and guiding through the ASIAIR mobile app. Be sure to keep ASIAIR firmware and the app itself updated for best compatibility.

     

    Q10. What is the recommended gain and offset setting for the ASI cooled cameras?

    This varies by target and sky conditions, but ZWO recommends:

    Gain 100 for optimal dynamic range and low read noise
    Gain 0 for maximum dynamic range in bright targets or longer exposures

    Offset typically ranges from 30–50 but should be adjusted depending on your software and histogram.

     

    Q11. Can I use my ASI Camera with a DSLR lens?

    Yes, you may be able to use your ASI Camera with DSLR lenses using appropriate ZWO lens adapters (e.g. M54 to Canon EF/Nikon F). You will need to ensure proper backfocus and may need a manual or electronic lens controller for aperture/focus adjustments.

     

    Q12. My software doesn't recognise my camera – what should I do?

    Try the following:

    • Install the latest ZWO native and ASCOM drivers.
    • Check your USB 3.0 cable and port; use a powered hub if needed.
    • Test connectivity with an alternative app like ASIStudio.
    • Update your software or firmware (e.g. ASIAIR, NINA).