Gear Database

QHY5III485C

QHY

QHY5III485C is a compact guide and planetary camera for keeping long-exposure rigs locked onto a star.

camera midrange
QHY5III485C

Best Current Offer

Cloud Break Optics logo
Cloud Break Optics
In stock
$319.00

Specifications

Overview

Camera type
Color planetary / guide camera

Sensor

Sensor
Sony IMX485 CMOS / 1/1.2-inch
Megapixels
8.29 MP
Resolution
3840 x 2160 (8.29 MP)
Pixel size
2.9 um
Color / mono
Color

Use

Primary use
Planetary, lunar, all-sky, and guiding

Specifications

Interface
USB3.0
Weight
90 g
ADC
12-bit
Sensor size
1/1.2inch

Sensor / electronics

Sensor
Sony IMX485
Pixel size
2.9 um
Resolution
3864 x 2180

Astrophotography Fit

Best for off-axis guiding or guide scopes where a larger, more sensitive sensor improves star selection.

QHY5III485C is a small astronomy camera that can guide, and in many cases double as a lunar or planetary camera. Mono sensors are usually preferred for guiding sensitivity; color guide cameras make more sense when planetary use is also part of the plan.

For long focal length telescopes, sensor size matters because an off-axis guider sees a small, off-center slice of the field. For short refractors, a modest guide scope and a smaller guide camera are often enough.

Best paired with

  • Off-axis guiders on SCTs, RCs, and longer refractors
  • Mounts running PHD2, ASIAIR guiding, or similar software
  • Rigid threaded guide paths with repeatable focus

Not recommended for

  • Using as the primary camera for large deep-sky targets
  • Loose finder-shoe guide scopes on long focal length rigs
  • Expecting guiding to fix poor polar alignment, flexure, or mount overload

Where To Buy

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Retailer Price Availability View Offer
Cloud Break Optics logo
Cloud Break Optics
Cloud Break Optics
$319.00
In stock
Updated 5/11/2026
View Offer - $319.00