NEW astrophotography camera | ZWO ASI533MC Pro

A new dedicated astrophotography camera, the ZWO ASI533 MC Pro.
Full Post: astrobackyard.com/zwo-asi533m...
Order Online: bit.ly/3J11fLP
In this video, I test out the new ZWO ASI533 MC Pro color camera for astrophotography in the backyard.
I show you how I set up the spacing with my Sky-Watcher Esprit 100 telescope and Starizona APEX 0.65X reducer/flattener.
The final image includes just 13 x 4-minutes of exposure time. Expect a lot more information about the ZWO ASI533 in the near future!
Affiliate Links:
Some of the links in my video descriptions are affiliate links, which means at no extra cost to you, I will make a small commission if you click them and make a qualifying purchase.

[@AstroBackyard]

I'm setting up again with this rig as we speak (another clear November night!). I'll try the ASI533 WITHOUT the reducer next to give you a better idea of the FOV you can expect with a 500-600mm refractor. Thank you guys for watching! Clear skies

[@ChucksAstrophotography]

Clear skies, Trevor - all clouds here.

[@AstroBackyard]

@@ChucksAstrophotography Thanks Chuck!

[@photoggenes7443]

@@ChucksAstrophotography Illinois too.

[@robertbrowning4888]

That is an amazing image for having only 13x4 minute subs. Great work. I love your passion and dedication. Keep it up. Clear skies.

[@AstroBackyard]

@@robertbrowning4888 Thank you! I really wanted to get more integration for a test image but this target ran into my giant Walnut tree by 12:30 😑

[@artlife6210]

your channel is way above and beyond all the other youtubers doing this field of research/hobby, appreciate all your help!

[@AstroBackyard]

The song at the end of this video is "Creator" by "K Solis". Thumbs up if you liked it. I'll do this for every "reveal" track moving forward.

[@brooksreed9609]

AstroBackyard question, I am very new to this, I have a sky watcher 150 doublet, it is too big and heavy for Astro photography? I have the same mount as you in this vid

[@FredSchmitthammer]

As I begin my astrophotography journey, it is appreciated that you show us the professional equipment.

[@sarojrani8181]

How much do you earn?

[@timmbottoni3135]

Really really helpful for me. I'm looking at options for the future and this sounds like its in the running. Thanks for this first look at it.

[@user-pw4iw8gb5v]

Выше всяких похвал !!!!!! Браво 👏, bravo , great 👍!!!!! RUS.

[@jeffmiller1988]

Great review of an upcoming product! As usual you make us (me) jealous haha. Amazed at the image you were able to get of all that surrounding nebulosity with such a short integration time. Nice work, Trevor!

[@hdsinner]

I'm super new to this but it makes 100% perfect sense to setup in the daytime. I work nights am in the middle of doing an engine swap on my car. Working on in it at night is rough. Even in the lit up garage with extra lighting. Just not the same as true daylight. I spend so much time looking for something the shadows.

[@jamiermathlin]

I have the ZWO ASI294 pro, and it is awesome, I have the skywatcher 100 esprit as well, and the results I get are truly stunning, all thanks to you Trevor. I have been following you for many years and I have learnt so much. I use the ASIAIR controller wireless to my laptop and as a result, I now do most of my astrophotography from indoors, which is great on these cold nights. My sincere thanks go to you :-)

[@realmcerono]

Running the exact same setup and love it too :-) I just miss the live stacking when using asiair so I do use teamviewer and two laptops on some occasions.

[@petegeanocyde4069]

Literally just woke up to check the status of the incoming shipment of 294's to high point and saw this lil puppy right underneath the inventory list. Now you got me looking at this.

[@BenPienig]

Wow! Great image, I love the setup!

[@innercityastro7742]

Great video Trevor as usual. I've just bought the esprit 120 cant wait to get it under the stars... will be putting some of your advice to work over the next few months

[@dasimcoes]

Good video Trevor. Your right about zwo having cameras that are so close to each other spec wise. Didn't know this camera existed. Thanks for doing these videos and say hi to Rudy.

[@jimmyfleming3257]

Great Video Trevor!!!! I'm currently doing the soul in HA. I just hoped aboard the mono narrowband train and so far I love it. However, you can't beat OSC with ease of use. Clear skies !! Also, I love the music in your videos.

[@JeffHorne]

This is amazing. Perfect timing. I just preordered the 2600...my first cooled cam...maybe it’ll be here in the first quarter of 2020 😂

[@Ben_Stewart]

The snow melted!

[@dannyliciousgenendlis9694]

U r totally awesome, I just started in this field. I live in miami florida, not even close to the weather u get. I'm learning a lot about astrophotography watching ur videos. I have so much to learn taking my time. I recently bought the z73 with the flattener, the asi120mm guide scope, ASI224MC plantery camera, the Asiair plus, and other things. The avx Equatorial GoTo Mount. All used, but it's still not cheap. I have not set it up yet, but I am still learning and watching videos. Thank you very much for want u do! Happy New Year!!!

[@scidav87]

Bought one yesterday! Can't wait to learn it

[@Santero68]

Again a very good Video. Thank you 👍 and greatings from Germany

[@capturethephotons2078]

Your name is making huge noise everywhere I go!! I was on Spotify listening to a random astrophotography podcast and your name came up. Just now I was on Chuck's astrophotography and he mentioned your name. You're doing great things for pro-am astrophotography and astronomy and that's just cool.🌌

[@benward9310]

This is awesome, thanks for upload

[@JRizzo-li2dr]

Cant wait to see what you do when you get your hands on the upcoming zwo asi 6200!

[@ScopesNC]

Great video and very informative. The dog is having a good time for sure. The 533 camera is what I have been looking for. Thanks for the review and keep up the nice work. OH and keep playing the background music I think it adds to the videos .

[@wanderingquestions7501]

I’ve been weighting my tripod w/ 25 lbs and it makes the stance substantially more stable in wind.

[@davidhins4307]

Hi Trevor, I would have loved to know more about this camera. How does it compare to the ASI294MC on the same setup? Is there really no amp glow? is the 533 overall better than the 294 because of the smaller pixel? Is is more sensitive ? Would it be a better match for a RASA8 because the pixel size of the 294 is I think a little big for that telescope? We see your final image and it look great I must say, but it would have been great to compare it with an image from the 294 taken the same night.

[@69Solo]

When sirus popped I was like yay hey there friend.

[@bombsaway6340]

Nice review. Bought a 294 recently, weather looks good here in South Texas tonight, so out I go. Clear Skies.

[@andrewkemp8677]

Dude, this channel is amazing

[@AmusedBeachYoga-th7dl]

Now I got it This the powerful message

[@WilliamShaheen]

Coincidentally, after reading the specs on the ZWO site, I ordered one just this morning.

[@oyesbaby9436]

I m from India I love ur super works .. God bless u

[@FreedomToRoam86]

Holy cats that takes a gorgeous pic! I really like the idea of a color sensor, without filter wheel, etc. Count me as SOLD!

[@cajunsushi]

I’m trying to get into astrophotography but many parts are on back order. Just being patient and learning more from people like you. I do enjoy your videos and would like to thank you for your dedication and efforts. Regards C.

[@nathanet100]

Sliding the carrying case over the camera when its mounted but not in use.....brilliant.

[@IgorTravelsTheWorld]

That is amazing!

[@ryezizzle]

i've been saying it now for years, but you HAVe to post your song playlists. too good

[@seanmangan2769]

Very nice picture!

[@ballafasho332]

Dang, after watching this. The telescope set up, the camera configurations, then the software editing to bring it all together. I feel discouraged. I am no where near versed enough to produce this experience for myself. Not sure i can honestly learn all of what’s necessary. Amazing photo at the end!!

[@jefflucas_life]

2:43 Ok, I just fell out of my chair - Trevor has the best toys!

[@Tekytek]

Thanks for this Trevor. I’m waiting for the release and wanted some reviews to check out. I was about to get the 294 until I saw so many warnings about the sensor.

[@Dudleydogg]

Warnings ? so the 533 one is safer bet?

[@PabloRodriguez-ww3cb]

Nice job my friend.

[@ellipirelli1569]

Nice Video, your Gear changes a lot from the beginning Days. Looks like a 5-6K Setup now.

[@thimitri1]

Also about setting up during the day time is allowing your setup to reach ambient temperature....

[@lucas_tibd]

Thank for your inspiring work Trevor ! Hope to see you in a star party in France one day !

[@AstroBackyard]

Thank you Lucas, that would be an amazing trip! :)

[@AstroForumSpace]

Great stuff Trevor. The only thing is...I miss the shed or your old home ☺️. Love the picture.

[@Sebreem]

I congratulate you on your success as an amateur astronomer and your channel that inspires all of us but damn, I miss your relatable shows versus the product reviews. Connecting other appreciators of the universe with your common man approach is so inclusive of all us mutual admirers of creation. Just my thoughts. I really do appreciate your relatable authenticity, and if the product plugging is helping you and yours, no bad feelings. Just my puny two cents and reminiscing of the binging of Astrobackyard of days past. Wishing you the best and thanking you for sharing your vast knowledge.

[@olegsastrophotography1771]

Hello from UKRAINE!!! Nice man!!

[@AmatureAstronomer]

Thinking of buying one.

[@mwales2112]

My 533 came in and the first object I imaged was the Orion Nebula and I'm just amazed at the final product.... It was strange not hearing mirror slap as my T3i did every shot..

[@pduffy421]

0:01 Amazing gear man :O

[@cryptojihadi265]

Damn! That capture of the Horsehead was amazing. Especially with the limited data. You just sold me on that camera. Now I just have to wait for my scope to arrive! Lol About 10 mos. Gonna be a LONNNNNG wait!

[@DeereX748]

I just ordered this camera a couple of weeks ago. If I can get results anywhere close to the Horsehead image you showed, it will be money well spent. I'll be using a William Optic GT81 at f/5.9 (native) or f/4.7 with the field flattener-reducer. Now, for some decent skies in my Bortle 4 area.

[@Wolfie6020]

Thanks for a great review and it looks like another winner from ZWO. I have the 294 and 183 Pro cameras already so probably no need for this one too.

[@bobbeanbags]

Wolfie6020 did u get it? I’m trying to decide between the 533 and 294. :-)

[@Wolfie6020]

@@bobbeanbags No I didn't get the 533. I am happy with the 294 and 183 though.

[@youyoo3408]

ty cant wait to try new things ..also maybe try a smartphone adapter on cheaper telescopes

[@desmondellis657]

Great vid, as always, Trevor. Keep up the good work!

[@edappi8172]

Hello Trevor, Not sure Mrs AstroBackyard would be to keen to hear you say " this is what you live for " - it's been nice seeing your videos over time, I hope you get out of the hospital soon!

[@ChucksAstrophotography]

I’m going to be looking for an OSC camera in the spring. I may consider this, I first heard about it a few days ago. Nice Horsehead!

[@EFRollercoaster]

There are 2 more ZWO cameras on the way. The ASI 2600 MC Pro and the ASI 6200 MM/MC Pro, booth with the same type of backlit CMOS sensor. But I think the 533 is amazing because it is very well priced.

[@LogansChristmasLights]

Pretty impressive shot for such a small number of exposures. Love my 294mcpro by the way.

[@AstroLaVista]

You did well to get out once you were cosied up with couple of beers in you. It just goes to demonstrate the value of clear dark sky when you're not on a school night! ;) I'm trying my hardest not to be jealous as I needed to sell everything to move house. I've had no scope or mount for a while now, just a 5D classic and tripod which I've been having fun with in the meantime. It's actually been quite fun to go back to basics, but I really want a scope and mount back! lol p.s that is one stunning Horse Head and Flame neb, with plenty of detail and texture in the wall. Looks super clean too!

[@KB2AT]

Sweet image. Would love to see comparison with this and 183MC Pro

[@keplergso8369]

Thanks for your video. I left astronomy 2 years ago, I had an ES 400/1800, now I want to practice again, but for the 'assisted visual' (very fast astrophotography), I go and buy this ZWO 533, with a 200/1000 on HEQ5 Pro or EQ6-R, with ASIAir system. I'd like to specialize myself in the small planetary nebulæ, but I know, it is a difficult challenge, with auto-guidance I'm afraid. And it is no more 'assisted visual'... Jacques, from France

[@shadowchaser6362]

So, I see that you have relocated to a different home! Any plans to build an observatory in your back yard? Great job on the videos! Keep-em coming!

[@danwray5626]

The 294MC Pro is actually a 4/3 sensor not APSC. I've been considering that myself.

[@michaelthunquest3341]

good call - I noticed that too.

[@joryodom4923]

Rudy likes to party! 🤘

[@seanmolony-redstickastro238]

So what's your favorite of the three in light polluted skies? I might have to wait on that ASI 2600 coming in January. Their first 16bit camera with 80% QE

[@an35tares]

I have a scope 200/1000 mm CN8 with the mount avx advanced ! Canon Sl2 also

[@hangerbird]

Nice review. Ever thought of try some solar work and doing reviews on filters, photography tips, etc.?

[@panagiotisbraimakis9982]

Hi! thanks for the videos, you are doing a great job! I am wondering while seeing your setup, why are you using the FR after the focuser and not before ? so instead of Scope -> Focuser -> FR -> camera use Scope -> FR -> Focuser -> camera ? I have a CST 9.25 with the same camera and a the Celestron FR f/6.3 with a TS Monorail Focuser and i m not sure what the setup should be. Thanks!!! Keep up posting us videos

[@caracolr1]

Hi Trevor another great video. I know that this video is for the Asi533 but i need to question what do think about the reducer?? I have the same telescope and im looking for a reducer. Thanks clear skies.

[@astronomicaltalk5708]

Would be neat to compare images side by side so the different in resolution can be seen (would also be good to compare with a DSLR image too).

[@jasondain8713]

Thanks for the great video. That is quite a setup you have. You mentioned that the focal length is about 300mm in your video. Is that a 35mm equivalent focal length? Just trying to figure out what focal length I should be shooting on a DSLR with my first tracker. Thanks

[@damonjbrodie]

I think it would be useful to show and compare the images of the same target with each of the cameras you discussed in the video.

[@leonarddaneman810]

It seems to be very similar to the SONY 20 mgpxl sensor used in Olympus OMD cameras, most recently the OMD-EIII.

[@bonairecloudynightsobserva2297]

Excellent, it's a very interesting new camera. My only concern is the price. Astrophotography is a expansive hobby, wish you come back more to the essence of it, than only advertising new stuff.

[@kevindobbins5040]

What filter drawer are you using?Thanks

[@vyperpilot]

Great video. Thanks! A friend of mine gave me his 553 but no extenders. Can you tell me what extender I should get so as to be able to attach to my scope? (1.25 is fine). Ive dug around on line with no luck. Thanks!

[@deadeye8]

Is this a veritasium's second channel or are you his brotha?

[@Calzune]

I have a skywatcher evostar 72ed (420 f. ) I'm hoping for more reviews soon so I can decide what cam to get :)

[@Bradl0y]

Great video love the music. O can you please send some nice weather to the UK have not see the sun or starts for some time.

[@N4GW]

Great video. So how did you like it compared to the 294. The square chip is interesting, but the smaller pixels may give more detail

[@ErtyCraftern]

do you still use the William optics z61?

[@darrenbuchan3957]

Great video Trevor ! I was wandering if you think this camera would work well with the Redcat 51 ? Thank you for any help !

[@toddnoseworthy1447]

Which filter drawer did you use? Been thinking about getting one or a filter wheel.

[@peterwebster2555]

Wow I hadn't seen that this had been released anywhere, only that ASI ZWO were going to release some larger format cameras. Your 52 mins of B33 looks very impressive, will you be reviewing the benefits/drawbacks of this camera in upcoming videos, I wonder for example how the reduced refractor would compare to the RASA 8 you had recently?! BTW the conversation about being cloudy outside and getting comfortable inside with a few beers has happened to me a few times, as good as beer is, I hate myself if I've missed an opportunity to collect photons, clear skies!

[@davidheflin5847]

Interesting. I'm actually considering the 533. I wonder how it would do on my 6" RC and my C11?

[@nicholasp8978]

Excellent review once more Trevor ...thank you very much !!!!!!! I can see the square sensor/framing there , and there was a beautiful result ,but how would you rate this against the Zwo Asi 294MC Pro ?? meaning as a result....did you see any special differences that makes this new camera worth buying ??? Personally i didn't see something different.....as far as collecting data...... Its nice though that ZWO is bringing new equipment and trying to do the best for astrophotography.... Once more ,excellent review always waiting for the next one's !!!!!!!!!

[@MattWatsonAus]

Hi Trevor. One thing that is not clear from your video is whether you dispensed with the Skywatcher dedicated field flattener to use the new focal length reducer? Also, which adapters did you use to achieve the correct focal length? Would be good to demonstrate the items in your optical train, as they are assembled. Just a thought, after going to the trouble of putting a video together demonstrating your kit.

[@RaysAstrophotography]

That is pretty small pixel camera! Smaller than 183 looks like! You are saying no ampglow? That's a pretty good price then! Great video Trevor!

[@MrMetalhead0124]

how many thing do you have plugged into your laptop and are you using Stellarium as your go to system? Auto-guider/camera/mount controlled by the laptop? my setup consists of a losmandy g-11 with gemini 2 , zwo 120 as the auto-guider, canon 60DA for the camera and Stellarium from the laptop to handle the mount, and auto-guider. just inquiring to see if a laptop can handle three things being used at the same time!

[@dr.hans-ulrichkummer6601]

Thank You Trevor; great video as always. Recently I bought the ZWOAsi183MC Pro cooled Color Camera. Real testing was not possible due to bad wheather conditions here in Heidelberg/Germany; I would like to ask You about Your experience with the new Asi533 color camera when it comes to processing the color pictures. I guess that the original File Format is FIT in greyscale; do you process it with DeepSKyStacker to get the color picture and does this work fine? Whats about AmpGlow; do You have to take extra measures against it or is it eliminated during the „standard“ processing with DeepSkyStacker? Greetings from Germany and always clear skies!

[@mrtambourineman6107]

Thats some good going there A.B. - heard your name a lot since i started this hobby - all good i promise!! Ha 😂

[@JayMan0581]

I’m shooting the WO SpaceCat 51 with Nikon D850 stock with L-eNhanced 2” how long should I be doing my lights and what’s the most desirable ISO for Horsehead/Flame?

[@TheMje1963]

Evening Trevor, I've had the Starizona reducer on order since they told me about it. Can't wait to get my hands on it. I have the same mount & scope you have. You seem to have one of the filter sliders, Is that one of the Starizona slider & holders? I have been thinking of getting one of them. For us newbies can you elaborate on what spacers you are using and such. I'm still using a DSLR, but have the ASI294MC Pro on order. I'd imagine there are quite a bit of us newbies that watch your videos and blogs + facebook. Thanks

[@specialized415]

Beautiful image trevor.. absolutely gorgeous 👍🏻 It’s been nothing but clouds here in mid france for weeks.. hopefully things will clear up soon 🤞🏻 When you’re shooting at home, do you still use a battery to run power to your mount, or just plug in a 12v adapter from mains power? Give roody a big daft cuddle from me please mate - clear skies ✌🏻👊🏻

[@billvinson7859]

Hi Trevor, that is a lot of gear to set up every time you go out. Have you thought to building or buying an observatory? I am thinking of buying the upcoming Canon EOS Ra. What are your thoughts on this camera? I already have the Canon 60Da and still plan on using it for many years to come. Take care. Thanks for your great videos.

[@brent1801]

how flat are the corners with the Starizona reducer ? do you notice any loss of sharpness from the reducer ?

[@tiquiciagamescr106]

Genius

[@astrobert1254]

Hi, great video! Thanks a lot! Im thinking about getting this camera but I am only mobile by foot so I have to carry my stuff. Mobile 12V batteries are either super heavy or only low in capacity and I wonder if you can confirm that the cooling at 20% produces already d-20C and only draws 0.5 A as it is shown in the graph in the manual? Since this would allow me to get a way smaller battery than one that can support the recommended 12V/3A! CS Robert

[@amlesser1]

Right on, Trevor! My ASI533MC Pro shipped yesterday and should be in Calgary next week... exciting times! Quick question, which filter slider are you using in this video? Cheers!

[@fmrc69]

Where did you get the info that 533MC backspacing is 58mm? ZWO website states 55mm. Even if you add 1mm for the addition of the filter that's only 56mm. Please explain as I'm considering this camera given the Black Friday sale