Player One MARS-M Mono (SKU: POA-MARS-M ) is the first generation of the ultra-sensitive Mars series planetary camera. It uses the Sony IMX462 mono sensor (1/2.8″ format, 1936 × 1096 px) made with STARVIS technology, which combines very low readout noise with exceptional sensitivity in the near-infrared. The 2.9 µm pixel ensures correct sampling at focal lengths of 2000–5000 mm, while the fast USB-C 3.0 interface and 256 MB DDR-III buffer enable smooth recording up to 120 fps in full RAW-10 resolution. The PCS passive radiator maintains a stable sensor temperature even during long lucky-imaging bursts.

Key Features of MARS-M Mono

• Sony IMX462 MONO sensor – 1936 × 1096 px (2.12 MP), pixel 2.9 µm
• STARVIS technology – QE ≈ 88%, no amp-glow at all
• recording speed up to 120 fps (RAW-10) in full frame, 380 fps at ROI 640 × 480
• full well ≈ 11 ke-, read noise < 1 e- in HCG mode – high dynamic range
• 256 MB DDR-III buffer – records without dropped frames
• Super AR Plus window – high transmission 350–1000 nm, minimal reflections
• PCS system (radiator) + optional ACS active module
• USB-C 3.0 interface (400 MiB/s) + ST-4 port for autoguider
• Threads: M42 × 0.75 internal + 1.25″ nose – 12.5 mm back-focus; compatible with SFT tilter and FD MINI drawer

Technical specification

• matrix: Sony IMX462 mono, CMOS, rolling-shutter
• format / diagonal: 1/2.8″ (6.46 mm) – area 5.6 × 3.2 mm
• resolution: 1936 × 1096 px (2.12 MP)
• pixel size: 2.9 µm
• ADC converter: 12 bit / 10 bit (RAW)
• full well: ≈ 11 ke- (gain 0)
• reading noise: 0.7 – 2.8 e- (HCG → LG)
• max. FPS: 120 fps @ RAW-10 (1936 × 1096), 380 fps @ 640 × 480
• exposure range: 32 µs – 2000 s
• memory buffer: 256 MB DDR-III
• back-focus (with 1.25″ nose): 12.5 mm
• dimensions / weight: Ø 66 mm × 32 mm / 150 g
• cooling: PCS passive; compatible ACS module (active)
• Power supply: 5V DC from USB-C (≤ 0.45A)
• systems: Windows 7/10/11 (ASCOM), macOS, Linux (INDI)

Mars-M is an agile mono camera for enthusiasts of high-resolution planetary and solar photography. High infrared sensitivity allows effective use of IR-pass 685/850 nm filters, which improves sharpness in difficult seeing . Thanks to its low weight and compact design, it will also work great as a precise guider in OAG Mini systems.