ZWO ASI2600MC AIR All-In-One Smart Astrophotography Camera
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- Capture stunning detail with the ASI2600MC's 26MP color APS-C sensor and 3.76µm pixels
- Zero amp glow ensures clean, artifact-free deep sky images
- Includes built-in autoguiding sensor—no need for a separate guide camera
- Store hours of data on 256GB of fast, onboard eMMC storage
- 2GB DDR4 memory handles real-time processing with ease
- Process images fast with one-button image stacking and auto-calibration
- Intelligent live stacking helps you see results while you shoot
- Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz) and Bluetooth for easy wireless control
- High-speed data transfer via USB-C and four USB 2.0 ports
- Power multiple devices with three 12V DC ports (10A each)
- Seamless compatibility with ZWO accessories
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air - Convenience Without Compromise
Meet the ASI2600MC Air—ZWO’s fan-favorite color camera just got smarter. It uses the same high-performance 26MP APS-C sensor from the ASI2600MC Pro, but now it has a powerful ASIAIR computer built right in. That means you can run your entire setup—mount, camera, filter wheel, and more—wirelessly from your phone or tablet. No cables. No control box. No fuss.
The ASI2600MC Air is a One-Shot Color (OSC) camera. So you can capture full-color deep sky images without needing separate narrowband or color filters or complex post-processing. It's perfect for beginners who want simplicity, and experienced imagers who want to get high-quality images faster!
It features the same built-in guide sensor as the ASI2600MC Duo, so you don’t need a separate guide camera. Since it’s made to work perfectly with ZWO accessories, setup is quick and hassle-free.
If you're ready to ditch the clutter and image from anywhere, the ASI2600MC Air is your new go-to.
ZWO ASI2600MC Air: Review, Results, and User Experience
In this video, Agena Astro affiliate Cuiv The Lazy Geek covers all of the amazing features of ZWO ASI2600MC Air and its incredible all-in-one design.
ZWO ASI2600MC Air Highlights
A Sensor Made to Perform
The ASI2600MC Air keeps everything that made the original ASI2600 series a favourite. You’ll get crisp, detailed images thanks to its 26 megapixel APS-C sensor with 3.76um pixels, zero amp glow, and a full 16-bit analog-to-digital converter. Its famed Sony IMX571 CMOS sensor offers extremely low read noise, a peak quantum efficiency of 80%, and rock-solid performance night after night.
Multiple Interfaces
The 2600MC Air is fully loaded with connection options! With four USB 2.0 ports for all your accessories, three female DC 12V plugs totaling at 10A of input/output power; and USB Type-C port for fast file transfers—you can focus on capturing stunning images without worrying about connectivity issues.
Storage for Multi-night Sessions
ZWO’s never built a camera with on-board storage - until now. Since the ASI2600MC Air has a full computer inside you get 256gb of high-speed eMMC storage. So you can capture data over multiple nights before needing to transfer to your main computer. Plus, with 2GB of DDR memory, it has the real-time processing power needed to run the built-in ASIAir smoothly!
The Perfect Solution for All Types of Astrophotography
Galaxies
Messier 63 - The Sunflower Galaxy
Taken by R. Michael Gehrisch using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air, TS-Optics 200mm/8" ONTC f/4 Newtonian (carbon tube), Rainbow Astro RST-135E mount, and the Optolong L-Pro (2”) light pollution filter. Total exposure time of 18 hours 10 minutes (218×300″).
Nebulae
Messier 78 (NGC 2068) - Off the waist of Orion
Taken by R. Jay GaBany using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air, ZWO FF107 107mm f/7 Petzval Refractor, ZWO AM5 mount, and the ZWO Duo-Band filter (2”). Total exposure time of 18 hours and 10 minutes (218×300″).
Star Clusters
Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan - ATLAS
Taken by Nikolay Kondrashov using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air and a Celestron RASA 8" on Nov 2, 2024. Nikolay used an Optolong L-Pro 2” filter and a ZWO AM5 mount. Total exposure time of 1 hour (20×180″).
Technical Specs of the ASI2600MC Camera
The ASI2600MM Pro delivers exceptional technical performance . With its impressive 91% quantum efficiency (QE), this sensor converts 91 out of every 100 incoming photons into usable data. This capability significantly reduces imaging duration for capturing targets. The advantage is quite noticeable when photographing dim objects such as distant galaxies and planetary nebulae.
The camera's 3.76um pixel design works excellently across various focal lengths and maintains outstanding dynamic range performance, while its impressive 50Ke full well capacity enables extended exposure sessions without compromise.
All-in-One Control with Built-In ASIAIR
The ASI2600MC Air doesn’t just capture incredible images—it also runs your entire imaging session, thanks to a fully integrated ASIAIR smart computer built into the camera body. This onboard system replaces the need for a separate ASIAIR controller or external mini PC, streamlining your gear and minimizing cable clutter.
With the ASIAIR built in, you can wirelessly control every aspect of your setup from your tablet or smartphone using the ASIAIR app. The ASIAIR software supports key imaging modes such as:
- Preview Mode for quick framing and focus
- Autorun Mode for capturing calibrated image sequences using flats, darks, and bias frames
- Live Stacking Mode for real-time stacked previews of deep-sky targets
- Plan Mode for scheduling mosaics or multi-target sessions in a single night.
File management is handled automatically on the 256GB of fast onboard eMMC storage, with support for FITS, RAW, and JPEG formats.
Enjoy the Beauty of the Night Sky Anywhere
Sony CMOS Sensor with STARVIS Technology & Backside-Illumination (BSI) for Improved Performance
ZWO's implementation of Sony's BSI CMOS sensor architecture improves light gathering while minimizing noise through its innovative design that places electronic components beneath the silicon substrate instead of above it. This configuration allows photons to travel directly to the photodiode without obstruction, unlike conventional CCD sensors, where these layers are arranged in reverse order.
The BSI design also accelerates data transfer rates, which is especially valuable for handling the large flow of data coming from the new high-resolution sensors like the IMX571 or even more so with ZWO's full-frame camera lineup, such as the ASI6200MM, ASI6200MC, and ASI2400MC.
Reduced Noise with Two-stage TEC Cooling
The ASI2600MM Pro uses an advanced dual-stage thermoelectric (TEC) cooling mechanism that lowers sensor temperature by 63°F (35°C) below the surrounding environmental conditions. This cooling approach combines with ZWO's dark current reduction technology to deliver exceptional noise control.
Operating at 32°F (0°C), the camera generates merely 0.0022 electrons of thermal noise per pixel each second. This ensures that during 5-minute exposures, the total thermal interference (0.7e) stays beneath the system's baseline readout noise. At -4°F (-20°C), thermal current drops to a level so low it becomes irrelevant to final image quality and processing.
Impressive Dynamic Range From a Native 16-bit ADC
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air shines with outstanding image quality, powered by a 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and state-of-the-art color CMOS technology. Unlike the claims of legacy CCD cameras, the ASI2600MC Air truly unlocks a wide dynamic range and faithfully reproduces subtle tones and contrast variations.
Faint wisps of nebulae and vibrant star fields alike are brought to life in single exposures, making this camera a fantastic choice for capturing the variety and depth of the night sky. Whether you're chasing the delicate glow of distant galaxies or a mysterious dark nebula of some kind, the 16-bit ADC will make your images stand out.
Increased Versatility with Dual Gain Modes
The IMX571 sensor used in all ASI2600 models features a smart dual-gain architecture, which automatically balances low noise and high dynamic range depending on your exposure settings. By setting the gain to 100, you’ll quickly notice less read noise and a better dynamic range, making it easier to pull out faint details without unnecessary noise getting in the way. This setting also bumps up sensitivity, helping capture those subtle features in your deep sky images.
For most imaging sessions, ZWO recommends sticking with gain 100 to get the best results. The only times you might want to adjust it are when photographing extra bright targets or using very short exposures—then, tweaking the gain lower or higher can come in handy.
Quicker and Easier Post-Processing with Zero Amp Glow
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air eliminates amp glow—a common issue in older CMOS and CCD sensors where stray infrared light would create unwanted artifacts in your images. With advanced engineering and modern sensor design, including back-illuminated (BSI) architecture, onboard DDR4 RAM, and high-speed readout, the ASI2600MC Air delivers clean, high-quality data right out of the box. No extra processing tricks needed—just reliable, low-noise performance every time.
How to Connect the ASI2600MC Air for the Recommended 55mm Back Focus
ASI2600MC Air Structual Diagram
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the power and setup requirements?
The ASI2600MC Air requires an external 11–14V power source to operate, even if the cooler isn’t active. This can be an external power supply or the power outputs from an ASIAir. This design ensures the cooling system and all internal electronics work reliably.
What sensor and performance characteristics does it offer?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air is equipped with Sony’s back‐illuminated IMX571 APS-C format sensor. This sensor provides a native 16-bit ADC, high dynamic range (up to 14 stops), 26MP resolution with a pixel size of 3.76µm, and a well depth of 50ke. These features help capture the faintest details while keeping read noise to a minimum and reducing amp glow entirely.
How does the two-stage TEC cooling and noise performance work?
The ASI2600MC Air incorporates a two-stage TEC cooling system that can lower the sensor temperature to more than 35°C below ambient. This cooling dramatically reduces dark current noise, and the innovative “zero amp glow” design further minimizes unwanted artifacts during long exposures.
How is the ASI2600MC Air different from the ASI2600MC Pro?
Both models share the same sensor technology and performance benefits, with the main difference being the inclusion of a fully-functional ASIAIR control computer and a second camera sensor for guiding built in! This means fewer cables, easier setup, and a level of integration that has never before been available in an astrophotography setup.
How do I connect my ZWO ASI2600MC Air to the rest of my imaging train while achieving the correct backspacing?
ZWO includes all the necessary spacers and adapters to connect with any system that requires 55mm of backspacing and which uses M54 threads.
What devices can be controlled by the ASI2600MC Air?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air has the same functions and abilities as a standalone ZWO ASIAIR unit. This means it can control any ZWO accessory like the Camera Angle Adjuster (CAA), the EAF or the new EAFN, and the ZWO AM3/AM5/AM5N mounts. With a built-in autoguider, there is no need to connect to an external guide camera, and even some of the newer mounts like the AM5N can be controlled wirelessly via Bluetooth or WiFi.
What measures are in place for robust data transmission?
To address concerns about data reliability, the ZWO ASI2600MC Air uses a USB-C interface to transfer data off the camera and onto an external computer. The camera also has 256GB of NAND flash memory to handle many nights of imaging, as well as 2 GB of RAM to help run everything smoothly on the camera's built-in ASIAIR.
How is dew or icing managed during cold nights of imaging?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air is equipped with a polyimide heater that fits over the protective window of the sensor. This actively helps to reduce dew or icing in the camera, thereby ensuring consistent performance and clear images through long exposures.
Additional Info
Specifications
- Dimensions:
- Camera Body: 90mm × 98mm (3.54" × 3.86")
- Antenna: 94mm (3.70")
- Weight: 1.68 lbs (760g)
- Operating Temperature: -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F)
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
- Operating Humidity: 20% to 90%
- Storage Humidity: 30% to 70%
- RAM: 2GB DDR4
- Storage Space: 256GB eMMC
- Wireless Network: IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, 2.4GHz / 5GHz, Effective Range: 66 ft (20m)
- DC Power: 12V @ 3–10A Input. All three DC ports can be used as input or output. Only one port can accept input at a time.
- USB Hub: USB 2.0 × 4
- Operating System Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac OS
- Adapter Ring: M54 × 0.75
- Back Focus: 12.5mm or 17.5mm (0.49" or 0.69")
- Power Mode: DC 12V – 3A
- Maximum Power Dissipation: 27.6W
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: China
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air - Convenience Without Compromise
Meet the ASI2600MC Air—ZWO’s fan-favorite color camera just got smarter. It uses the same high-performance 26MP APS-C sensor from the ASI2600MC Pro, but now it has a powerful ASIAIR computer built right in. That means you can run your entire setup—mount, camera, filter wheel, and more—wirelessly from your phone or tablet. No cables. No control box. No fuss.
The ASI2600MC Air is a One-Shot Color (OSC) camera. So you can capture full-color deep sky images without needing separate narrowband or color filters or complex post-processing. It's perfect for beginners who want simplicity, and experienced imagers who want to get high-quality images faster!
It features the same built-in guide sensor as the ASI2600MC Duo, so you don’t need a separate guide camera. Since it’s made to work perfectly with ZWO accessories, setup is quick and hassle-free.
If you're ready to ditch the clutter and image from anywhere, the ASI2600MC Air is your new go-to.
ZWO ASI2600MC Air: Review, Results, and User Experience
In this video, Agena Astro affiliate Cuiv The Lazy Geek covers all of the amazing features of ZWO ASI2600MC Air and its incredible all-in-one design.
ZWO ASI2600MC Air Highlights
A Sensor Made to Perform
The ASI2600MC Air keeps everything that made the original ASI2600 series a favourite. You’ll get crisp, detailed images thanks to its 26 megapixel APS-C sensor with 3.76um pixels, zero amp glow, and a full 16-bit analog-to-digital converter. Its famed Sony IMX571 CMOS sensor offers extremely low read noise, a peak quantum efficiency of 80%, and rock-solid performance night after night.
Multiple Interfaces
The 2600MC Air is fully loaded with connection options! With four USB 2.0 ports for all your accessories, three female DC 12V plugs totaling at 10A of input/output power; and USB Type-C port for fast file transfers—you can focus on capturing stunning images without worrying about connectivity issues.
Storage for Multi-night Sessions
ZWO’s never built a camera with on-board storage - until now. Since the ASI2600MC Air has a full computer inside you get 256gb of high-speed eMMC storage. So you can capture data over multiple nights before needing to transfer to your main computer. Plus, with 2GB of DDR memory, it has the real-time processing power needed to run the built-in ASIAir smoothly!
The Perfect Solution for All Types of Astrophotography
Galaxies
Messier 63 - The Sunflower Galaxy
Taken by R. Michael Gehrisch using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air, TS-Optics 200mm/8" ONTC f/4 Newtonian (carbon tube), Rainbow Astro RST-135E mount, and the Optolong L-Pro (2”) light pollution filter. Total exposure time of 18 hours 10 minutes (218×300″).
Nebulae
Messier 78 (NGC 2068) - Off the waist of Orion
Taken by R. Jay GaBany using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air, ZWO FF107 107mm f/7 Petzval Refractor, ZWO AM5 mount, and the ZWO Duo-Band filter (2”). Total exposure time of 18 hours and 10 minutes (218×300″).
Star Clusters
Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan - ATLAS
Taken by Nikolay Kondrashov using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air and a Celestron RASA 8" on Nov 2, 2024. Nikolay used an Optolong L-Pro 2” filter and a ZWO AM5 mount. Total exposure time of 1 hour (20×180″).
Technical Specs of the ASI2600MC Camera
The ASI2600MM Pro delivers exceptional technical performance . With its impressive 91% quantum efficiency (QE), this sensor converts 91 out of every 100 incoming photons into usable data. This capability significantly reduces imaging duration for capturing targets. The advantage is quite noticeable when photographing dim objects such as distant galaxies and planetary nebulae.
The camera's 3.76um pixel design works excellently across various focal lengths and maintains outstanding dynamic range performance, while its impressive 50Ke full well capacity enables extended exposure sessions without compromise.
All-in-One Control with Built-In ASIAIR
The ASI2600MC Air doesn’t just capture incredible images—it also runs your entire imaging session, thanks to a fully integrated ASIAIR smart computer built into the camera body. This onboard system replaces the need for a separate ASIAIR controller or external mini PC, streamlining your gear and minimizing cable clutter.
With the ASIAIR built in, you can wirelessly control every aspect of your setup from your tablet or smartphone using the ASIAIR app. The ASIAIR software supports key imaging modes such as:
- Preview Mode for quick framing and focus
- Autorun Mode for capturing calibrated image sequences using flats, darks, and bias frames
- Live Stacking Mode for real-time stacked previews of deep-sky targets
- Plan Mode for scheduling mosaics or multi-target sessions in a single night.
File management is handled automatically on the 256GB of fast onboard eMMC storage, with support for FITS, RAW, and JPEG formats.
Enjoy the Beauty of the Night Sky Anywhere
Sony CMOS Sensor with STARVIS Technology & Backside-Illumination (BSI) for Improved Performance
ZWO's implementation of Sony's BSI CMOS sensor architecture improves light gathering while minimizing noise through its innovative design that places electronic components beneath the silicon substrate instead of above it. This configuration allows photons to travel directly to the photodiode without obstruction, unlike conventional CCD sensors, where these layers are arranged in reverse order.
The BSI design also accelerates data transfer rates, which is especially valuable for handling the large flow of data coming from the new high-resolution sensors like the IMX571 or even more so with ZWO's full-frame camera lineup, such as the ASI6200MM, ASI6200MC, and ASI2400MC.
Reduced Noise with Two-stage TEC Cooling
The ASI2600MM Pro uses an advanced dual-stage thermoelectric (TEC) cooling mechanism that lowers sensor temperature by 63°F (35°C) below the surrounding environmental conditions. This cooling approach combines with ZWO's dark current reduction technology to deliver exceptional noise control.
Operating at 32°F (0°C), the camera generates merely 0.0022 electrons of thermal noise per pixel each second. This ensures that during 5-minute exposures, the total thermal interference (0.7e) stays beneath the system's baseline readout noise. At -4°F (-20°C), thermal current drops to a level so low it becomes irrelevant to final image quality and processing.
Impressive Dynamic Range From a Native 16-bit ADC
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air shines with outstanding image quality, powered by a 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and state-of-the-art color CMOS technology. Unlike the claims of legacy CCD cameras, the ASI2600MC Air truly unlocks a wide dynamic range and faithfully reproduces subtle tones and contrast variations.
Faint wisps of nebulae and vibrant star fields alike are brought to life in single exposures, making this camera a fantastic choice for capturing the variety and depth of the night sky. Whether you're chasing the delicate glow of distant galaxies or a mysterious dark nebula of some kind, the 16-bit ADC will make your images stand out.
Increased Versatility with Dual Gain Modes
The IMX571 sensor used in all ASI2600 models features a smart dual-gain architecture, which automatically balances low noise and high dynamic range depending on your exposure settings. By setting the gain to 100, you’ll quickly notice less read noise and a better dynamic range, making it easier to pull out faint details without unnecessary noise getting in the way. This setting also bumps up sensitivity, helping capture those subtle features in your deep sky images.
For most imaging sessions, ZWO recommends sticking with gain 100 to get the best results. The only times you might want to adjust it are when photographing extra bright targets or using very short exposures—then, tweaking the gain lower or higher can come in handy.
Quicker and Easier Post-Processing with Zero Amp Glow
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air eliminates amp glow—a common issue in older CMOS and CCD sensors where stray infrared light would create unwanted artifacts in your images. With advanced engineering and modern sensor design, including back-illuminated (BSI) architecture, onboard DDR4 RAM, and high-speed readout, the ASI2600MC Air delivers clean, high-quality data right out of the box. No extra processing tricks needed—just reliable, low-noise performance every time.
How to Connect the ASI2600MC Air for the Recommended 55mm Back Focus
ASI2600MC Air Structual Diagram
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the power and setup requirements?
The ASI2600MC Air requires an external 11–14V power source to operate, even if the cooler isn’t active. This can be an external power supply or the power outputs from an ASIAir. This design ensures the cooling system and all internal electronics work reliably.
What sensor and performance characteristics does it offer?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air is equipped with Sony’s back‐illuminated IMX571 APS-C format sensor. This sensor provides a native 16-bit ADC, high dynamic range (up to 14 stops), 26MP resolution with a pixel size of 3.76µm, and a well depth of 50ke. These features help capture the faintest details while keeping read noise to a minimum and reducing amp glow entirely.
How does the two-stage TEC cooling and noise performance work?
The ASI2600MC Air incorporates a two-stage TEC cooling system that can lower the sensor temperature to more than 35°C below ambient. This cooling dramatically reduces dark current noise, and the innovative “zero amp glow” design further minimizes unwanted artifacts during long exposures.
How is the ASI2600MC Air different from the ASI2600MC Pro?
Both models share the same sensor technology and performance benefits, with the main difference being the inclusion of a fully-functional ASIAIR control computer and a second camera sensor for guiding built in! This means fewer cables, easier setup, and a level of integration that has never before been available in an astrophotography setup.
How do I connect my ZWO ASI2600MC Air to the rest of my imaging train while achieving the correct backspacing?
ZWO includes all the necessary spacers and adapters to connect with any system that requires 55mm of backspacing and which uses M54 threads.
What devices can be controlled by the ASI2600MC Air?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air has the same functions and abilities as a standalone ZWO ASIAIR unit. This means it can control any ZWO accessory like the Camera Angle Adjuster (CAA), the EAF or the new EAFN, and the ZWO AM3/AM5/AM5N mounts. With a built-in autoguider, there is no need to connect to an external guide camera, and even some of the newer mounts like the AM5N can be controlled wirelessly via Bluetooth or WiFi.
What measures are in place for robust data transmission?
To address concerns about data reliability, the ZWO ASI2600MC Air uses a USB-C interface to transfer data off the camera and onto an external computer. The camera also has 256GB of NAND flash memory to handle many nights of imaging, as well as 2 GB of RAM to help run everything smoothly on the camera's built-in ASIAIR.
How is dew or icing managed during cold nights of imaging?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air is equipped with a polyimide heater that fits over the protective window of the sensor. This actively helps to reduce dew or icing in the camera, thereby ensuring consistent performance and clear images through long exposures.
- 1x Camera body
- 1x 1.5m DC male-female extension cable
- 2x power cord (1m)
- 2x USB 2.0 cable (0.5m)
- 1x 16.5mm M54M-M54F adapter
- 1x 21mm M54M-M54F extender
- 1x M54M-M48F ring
- 1x cable strap (1m)
- 1x M2.5 hex wrench (2mm)
- 1x antenna
- Quick guide
Please note: the camera needs to be connected to an external DC 12V @3A~5A power supply adapter for use (connector 5.5*2.1mm, center pole positive). If you don’t have one, we recommend the ZWO 12V 5A AC to DC Adapter for Pro/Cooled Cameras.
You can also use a lithium battery with 11-14V outputs to power the camera. But be aware that power supplies outside of this range might cause irreversible damages to your camera.
- Capture stunning detail with the ASI2600MC's 26MP color APS-C sensor and 3.76µm pixels
- Zero amp glow ensures clean, artifact-free deep sky images
- Includes built-in autoguiding sensor—no need for a separate guide camera
- Store hours of data on 256GB of fast, onboard eMMC storage
- 2GB DDR4 memory handles real-time processing with ease
- Process images fast with one-button image stacking and auto-calibration
- Intelligent live stacking helps you see results while you shoot
- Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz) and Bluetooth for easy wireless control
- High-speed data transfer via USB-C and four USB 2.0 ports
- Power multiple devices with three 12V DC ports (10A each)
- Seamless compatibility with ZWO accessories
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air - Convenience Without Compromise
Meet the ASI2600MC Air—ZWO’s fan-favorite color camera just got smarter. It uses the same high-performance 26MP APS-C sensor from the ASI2600MC Pro, but now it has a powerful ASIAIR computer built right in. That means you can run your entire setup—mount, camera, filter wheel, and more—wirelessly from your phone or tablet. No cables. No control box. No fuss.
The ASI2600MC Air is a One-Shot Color (OSC) camera. So you can capture full-color deep sky images without needing separate narrowband or color filters or complex post-processing. It's perfect for beginners who want simplicity, and experienced imagers who want to get high-quality images faster!
It features the same built-in guide sensor as the ASI2600MC Duo, so you don’t need a separate guide camera. Since it’s made to work perfectly with ZWO accessories, setup is quick and hassle-free.
If you're ready to ditch the clutter and image from anywhere, the ASI2600MC Air is your new go-to.
ZWO ASI2600MC Air: Review, Results, and User Experience
In this video, Agena Astro affiliate Cuiv The Lazy Geek covers all of the amazing features of ZWO ASI2600MC Air and its incredible all-in-one design.
ZWO ASI2600MC Air Highlights
A Sensor Made to Perform
The ASI2600MC Air keeps everything that made the original ASI2600 series a favourite. You’ll get crisp, detailed images thanks to its 26 megapixel APS-C sensor with 3.76um pixels, zero amp glow, and a full 16-bit analog-to-digital converter. Its famed Sony IMX571 CMOS sensor offers extremely low read noise, a peak quantum efficiency of 80%, and rock-solid performance night after night.
Multiple Interfaces
The 2600MC Air is fully loaded with connection options! With four USB 2.0 ports for all your accessories, three female DC 12V plugs totaling at 10A of input/output power; and USB Type-C port for fast file transfers—you can focus on capturing stunning images without worrying about connectivity issues.
Storage for Multi-night Sessions
ZWO’s never built a camera with on-board storage - until now. Since the ASI2600MC Air has a full computer inside you get 256gb of high-speed eMMC storage. So you can capture data over multiple nights before needing to transfer to your main computer. Plus, with 2GB of DDR memory, it has the real-time processing power needed to run the built-in ASIAir smoothly!
The Perfect Solution for All Types of Astrophotography
Galaxies
Messier 63 - The Sunflower Galaxy
Taken by R. Michael Gehrisch using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air, TS-Optics 200mm/8" ONTC f/4 Newtonian (carbon tube), Rainbow Astro RST-135E mount, and the Optolong L-Pro (2”) light pollution filter. Total exposure time of 18 hours 10 minutes (218×300″).
Nebulae
Messier 78 (NGC 2068) - Off the waist of Orion
Taken by R. Jay GaBany using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air, ZWO FF107 107mm f/7 Petzval Refractor, ZWO AM5 mount, and the ZWO Duo-Band filter (2”). Total exposure time of 18 hours and 10 minutes (218×300″).
Star Clusters
Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan - ATLAS
Taken by Nikolay Kondrashov using a ZWO ASI2600MC Air and a Celestron RASA 8" on Nov 2, 2024. Nikolay used an Optolong L-Pro 2” filter and a ZWO AM5 mount. Total exposure time of 1 hour (20×180″).
Technical Specs of the ASI2600MC Camera
The ASI2600MM Pro delivers exceptional technical performance . With its impressive 91% quantum efficiency (QE), this sensor converts 91 out of every 100 incoming photons into usable data. This capability significantly reduces imaging duration for capturing targets. The advantage is quite noticeable when photographing dim objects such as distant galaxies and planetary nebulae.
The camera's 3.76um pixel design works excellently across various focal lengths and maintains outstanding dynamic range performance, while its impressive 50Ke full well capacity enables extended exposure sessions without compromise.
All-in-One Control with Built-In ASIAIR
The ASI2600MC Air doesn’t just capture incredible images—it also runs your entire imaging session, thanks to a fully integrated ASIAIR smart computer built into the camera body. This onboard system replaces the need for a separate ASIAIR controller or external mini PC, streamlining your gear and minimizing cable clutter.
With the ASIAIR built in, you can wirelessly control every aspect of your setup from your tablet or smartphone using the ASIAIR app. The ASIAIR software supports key imaging modes such as:
- Preview Mode for quick framing and focus
- Autorun Mode for capturing calibrated image sequences using flats, darks, and bias frames
- Live Stacking Mode for real-time stacked previews of deep-sky targets
- Plan Mode for scheduling mosaics or multi-target sessions in a single night.
File management is handled automatically on the 256GB of fast onboard eMMC storage, with support for FITS, RAW, and JPEG formats.
Enjoy the Beauty of the Night Sky Anywhere
Sony CMOS Sensor with STARVIS Technology & Backside-Illumination (BSI) for Improved Performance
ZWO's implementation of Sony's BSI CMOS sensor architecture improves light gathering while minimizing noise through its innovative design that places electronic components beneath the silicon substrate instead of above it. This configuration allows photons to travel directly to the photodiode without obstruction, unlike conventional CCD sensors, where these layers are arranged in reverse order.
The BSI design also accelerates data transfer rates, which is especially valuable for handling the large flow of data coming from the new high-resolution sensors like the IMX571 or even more so with ZWO's full-frame camera lineup, such as the ASI6200MM, ASI6200MC, and ASI2400MC.
Reduced Noise with Two-stage TEC Cooling
The ASI2600MM Pro uses an advanced dual-stage thermoelectric (TEC) cooling mechanism that lowers sensor temperature by 63°F (35°C) below the surrounding environmental conditions. This cooling approach combines with ZWO's dark current reduction technology to deliver exceptional noise control.
Operating at 32°F (0°C), the camera generates merely 0.0022 electrons of thermal noise per pixel each second. This ensures that during 5-minute exposures, the total thermal interference (0.7e) stays beneath the system's baseline readout noise. At -4°F (-20°C), thermal current drops to a level so low it becomes irrelevant to final image quality and processing.
Impressive Dynamic Range From a Native 16-bit ADC
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air shines with outstanding image quality, powered by a 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and state-of-the-art color CMOS technology. Unlike the claims of legacy CCD cameras, the ASI2600MC Air truly unlocks a wide dynamic range and faithfully reproduces subtle tones and contrast variations.
Faint wisps of nebulae and vibrant star fields alike are brought to life in single exposures, making this camera a fantastic choice for capturing the variety and depth of the night sky. Whether you're chasing the delicate glow of distant galaxies or a mysterious dark nebula of some kind, the 16-bit ADC will make your images stand out.
Increased Versatility with Dual Gain Modes
The IMX571 sensor used in all ASI2600 models features a smart dual-gain architecture, which automatically balances low noise and high dynamic range depending on your exposure settings. By setting the gain to 100, you’ll quickly notice less read noise and a better dynamic range, making it easier to pull out faint details without unnecessary noise getting in the way. This setting also bumps up sensitivity, helping capture those subtle features in your deep sky images.
For most imaging sessions, ZWO recommends sticking with gain 100 to get the best results. The only times you might want to adjust it are when photographing extra bright targets or using very short exposures—then, tweaking the gain lower or higher can come in handy.
Quicker and Easier Post-Processing with Zero Amp Glow
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air eliminates amp glow—a common issue in older CMOS and CCD sensors where stray infrared light would create unwanted artifacts in your images. With advanced engineering and modern sensor design, including back-illuminated (BSI) architecture, onboard DDR4 RAM, and high-speed readout, the ASI2600MC Air delivers clean, high-quality data right out of the box. No extra processing tricks needed—just reliable, low-noise performance every time.
How to Connect the ASI2600MC Air for the Recommended 55mm Back Focus
ASI2600MC Air Structual Diagram
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the power and setup requirements?
The ASI2600MC Air requires an external 11–14V power source to operate, even if the cooler isn’t active. This can be an external power supply or the power outputs from an ASIAir. This design ensures the cooling system and all internal electronics work reliably.
What sensor and performance characteristics does it offer?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air is equipped with Sony’s back‐illuminated IMX571 APS-C format sensor. This sensor provides a native 16-bit ADC, high dynamic range (up to 14 stops), 26MP resolution with a pixel size of 3.76µm, and a well depth of 50ke. These features help capture the faintest details while keeping read noise to a minimum and reducing amp glow entirely.
How does the two-stage TEC cooling and noise performance work?
The ASI2600MC Air incorporates a two-stage TEC cooling system that can lower the sensor temperature to more than 35°C below ambient. This cooling dramatically reduces dark current noise, and the innovative “zero amp glow” design further minimizes unwanted artifacts during long exposures.
How is the ASI2600MC Air different from the ASI2600MC Pro?
Both models share the same sensor technology and performance benefits, with the main difference being the inclusion of a fully-functional ASIAIR control computer and a second camera sensor for guiding built in! This means fewer cables, easier setup, and a level of integration that has never before been available in an astrophotography setup.
How do I connect my ZWO ASI2600MC Air to the rest of my imaging train while achieving the correct backspacing?
ZWO includes all the necessary spacers and adapters to connect with any system that requires 55mm of backspacing and which uses M54 threads.
What devices can be controlled by the ASI2600MC Air?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air has the same functions and abilities as a standalone ZWO ASIAIR unit. This means it can control any ZWO accessory like the Camera Angle Adjuster (CAA), the EAF or the new EAFN, and the ZWO AM3/AM5/AM5N mounts. With a built-in autoguider, there is no need to connect to an external guide camera, and even some of the newer mounts like the AM5N can be controlled wirelessly via Bluetooth or WiFi.
What measures are in place for robust data transmission?
To address concerns about data reliability, the ZWO ASI2600MC Air uses a USB-C interface to transfer data off the camera and onto an external computer. The camera also has 256GB of NAND flash memory to handle many nights of imaging, as well as 2 GB of RAM to help run everything smoothly on the camera's built-in ASIAIR.
How is dew or icing managed during cold nights of imaging?
The ZWO ASI2600MC Air is equipped with a polyimide heater that fits over the protective window of the sensor. This actively helps to reduce dew or icing in the camera, thereby ensuring consistent performance and clear images through long exposures.
Additional Info
Specifications
- Dimensions:
- Camera Body: 90mm × 98mm (3.54" × 3.86")
- Antenna: 94mm (3.70")
- Weight: 1.68 lbs (760g)
- Operating Temperature: -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F)
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
- Operating Humidity: 20% to 90%
- Storage Humidity: 30% to 70%
- RAM: 2GB DDR4
- Storage Space: 256GB eMMC
- Wireless Network: IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, 2.4GHz / 5GHz, Effective Range: 66 ft (20m)
- DC Power: 12V @ 3–10A Input. All three DC ports can be used as input or output. Only one port can accept input at a time.
- USB Hub: USB 2.0 × 4
- Operating System Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac OS
- Adapter Ring: M54 × 0.75
- Back Focus: 12.5mm or 17.5mm (0.49" or 0.69")
- Power Mode: DC 12V – 3A
- Maximum Power Dissipation: 27.6W
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: China
| Product Status | new |
|---|---|
| Free Shipping Graphic | Free Contiguous US Shipping |
| Hide Found a better Shipped Price on Frontend? | No |
- 1x Camera body
- 1x 1.5m DC male-female extension cable
- 2x power cord (1m)
- 2x USB 2.0 cable (0.5m)
- 1x 16.5mm M54M-M54F adapter
- 1x 21mm M54M-M54F extender
- 1x M54M-M48F ring
- 1x cable strap (1m)
- 1x M2.5 hex wrench (2mm)
- 1x antenna
- Quick guide
Please note: the camera needs to be connected to an external DC 12V @3A~5A power supply adapter for use (connector 5.5*2.1mm, center pole positive). If you don’t have one, we recommend the ZWO 12V 5A AC to DC Adapter for Pro/Cooled Cameras.
You can also use a lithium battery with 11-14V outputs to power the camera. But be aware that power supplies outside of this range might cause irreversible damages to your camera.
ZWO ASI2600MC AIR All-In-One Smart Astrophotography Camera