Product Description

The Mars-M II is one of the most anticipated monochrome planetary cameras from Player One Astronomy. Built around the Sony IMX462 1/2.8” monochrome sensor, this new generation camera has been awaited by planetary imagers for over two years. Featuring a 2.9µm pixel size, a 12ke full well depth, and a 2.1MP resolution (1944 × 1096), the Mars-M II delivers outstanding sensitivity across visible, UV, and near-infrared wavelengths. The sensor’s 6.46mm diagonal ensures excellent performance for high-resolution lunar, solar, and planetary imaging.

Super AR Plus Window

The Mars-M II uses Player One’s enhanced Super AR Plus window, providing exceptional transmission from 310nm to 1100nm. This advanced coating dramatically improves performance in both ultraviolet and near-infrared imaging, making the camera ideal for specialised planetary and solar work.

Features

Player One planetary cameras follow a unique naming system inspired by the Solar System. Cameras named after smaller planets use smaller sensors—so the Mars series corresponds to 1/2.8-inch sensors. Each model name is engraved on the camera body for easy identification.

Cutting-Edge Hexagonal Design

The Mars-M II features Player One’s signature hexagonal body with precision-machined chamfered edges. The bold red and black anodised finish, combined with a fine frosting process, gives the camera a premium high-end appearance. The design is engineered for durability while maintaining a stylish, modern aesthetic.

2nd Generation Sensor Tilt Plate

The improved 2nd-generation tilt plate includes a high-density shading pad to prevent light leakage from the sides. This system makes it easy to fine-tune the sensor angle—particularly valuable for solar imaging where Newton rings can otherwise appear.

256MB DDR3 Cache

Player One was the first manufacturer to introduce DDR3 buffer memory into their entire planetary camera line. The 256MB buffer on the Mars-M II improves data stability, eliminates frame drops, and significantly reduces read noise. This also allows high performance even when connected via USB 2.0.

DPS Technology

The Mars-M II includes DPS (Dead Pixel Suppression) technology, analysing numerous dark frames to identify and map fixed abnormal pixels. During imaging, these pixels are automatically replaced with median values based on surrounding active pixels—resulting in cleaner, higher-quality data.

Overvoltage and Overcurrent Protection

The built-in safety circuits protect the camera and connected equipment from electrical faults, ensuring long-term reliability during imaging sessions.

Data Port & High-Speed Capture

When connected via USB 3.0, the Mars-M II can achieve up to 136 FPS in RAW8 and 64 FPS in RAW16 at full resolution. For best performance during video recording, Player One recommends using a fast SSD to avoid bottlenecks during high-speed capture.

Performance

Readout Noise

All published readout noise measurements are obtained from real testing. Users can easily verify results with the Sensor Analysis tool in Sharpcap 4. The Mars-M II reaches an extremely low 0.73e read noise at gain 350 and 0.7e at gain 400.

Tutorial: https://player-one-astronomy.com/service/manuals/

HCG Mode

At gain ≥80, the Mars-M II automatically enables HCG mode, significantly reducing read noise while maintaining high dynamic range.

QE Curve

The Sony IMX462 mono sensor offers exceptional sensitivity, peaking around 650–700nm and maintaining strong response well into the infrared. The absolute QE reaches approximately 91%.

Mechanical Drawing

Users' Work