Skip to main content

Ultra-large sensor tracks faint meteors and more

An ultra-large-scale, ultra-high-sensitivity CMOS sensor developed by Canon has enabled video recording of meteors with an equivalent apparent magnitude of 10. Apparent magnitude is a measure of a star's brightness as seen by an observer on Earth. The brighter the celestial body appears, the lower the value of its apparent magnitude. The darkest star visible to the naked eye has an apparent magnitude of approximately 6.

The sensor, with a chip size measuring 202 x 205mm, has the world's largest surface area for a CMOS sensor (as at 12 September 2011). It has been installed in the Schmidt telescope at the University of Tokyo's Kiso Observatory.

The ultra-large-scale, ultra-high-sensitivity CMOS sensor is among the largest that can be produced from a 300mm (12-inch) wafer. The sensor is approximately 40 times the size of Canon's largest commercial CMOS sensor – the  21.1 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor used in the EOS-1Ds Mark III and EOS 5D Mark II cameras. It makes possible video recording in dark conditions with as little as 0.3 lux (the level of brightness during a full moon).

Detecting faint meteors with apparent magnitudes greater than 7 has proven difficult using conventional observation technologies, with sightings of meteors with an equivalent apparent magnitude of 10 limited to only ten per year. However, video recorded using the new CMOS sensor, combined with the Schmidt telescope (which enables observation across a wide field-of-view), yielded a one-minute segment during which more meteors with an equivalent apparent magnitude of 10 could be detected than could previously be identified during the span of a year.

Statistical analysis of the video data could lead to an increased understanding of the influence that meteors may have exerted on the development of life on Earth.

Additionally, because the combination of the CMOS sensor and Schmidt telescope facilitates the highly efficient investigation of objects traveling at high speeds across the sky, it makes possible the detection of an increased number of celestial phenomena in addition to meteors, such as space debris
and heavenly bodies moving in the solar system. The technology is expected to contribute to improved measuring accuracy in determining the position and speed of these objects.


Popular posts from this blog

Canon announces EOS R100 camera and RF 28mm f2.8 pancake lens

Canon’s newest entry-level EOS R System mirrorless camera has been designed to effortlessly capture special moments and is small enough to carry on any family adventure. Canon also demonstrates its commitment to expanding the advanced range of RF prime lenses with the launch of the RF 28mm f2.8 STM – the smallest and lightest RF lens yet. EOS R100 A family-friendly, user-friendly and budget-friendly camera for capturing family moments and trips, the EOS R100 is a small APS-C mirrorless camera. It's a highly portable option for beginners looking to improve image and video quality that’s beyond the capabilities of their smartphone. Simplicity is the name of the game with the EOS R100, with features hand-picked to provide optimal handling and usability. There’s a built-in Feature guide and graphic-style menu to get to grips with this camera, as well as a bundle of features to enhance your creativity and images, such as Creative Assist and Creative Filters. The EOS R100 has a

Firmware updates for EOS-1D X Mark III, R3, R5, R6 Mark II and R8

Firmware updates have been introduced for five Canon EOS cameras.  EOS-1D X Mark III: firmware version 1.8.0 1. Adds the ability to register the focus position in the preset functions of the CR-A100 Camera Remote Application. When used with the Robotic Camera System CR-S700R, it helps the user to focus on the intended subject distance when shooting. 2. Adds the ability to erase voice memos added to images and to add voice memos to protected images. 3. Adds enhanced security when transferring images via FTPS transfer. 4. Fixes minor issues. Info and downloads EOS R3: firmware version 1.5.1 1. Adds the ability to register the focus position in the preset functions of the CR-A100 Camera Remote Application. When used with the Robotic Camera System CR-S700R, it helps the user to focus on the intended subject distance when shooting. 2. Adds the ability to erase voice memos added to images and to add voice memos to protected images. 3. Adds the ability to check the time in the viewfinder by

EOS R3 and R5 firmware sets new standards

Canon Europe today announces firmware updates for the EOS R3 and EOS R5 in response to feedback and requests from users. For the EOS R3, firmware version 1.4.0 means capturing fast-moving subjects is easier than ever before with Panning Assist, while firmware v1.8.1 for the EOS R5 offers enhanced resolution. Canon also announces new features coming to its Mobile File Transfer app, making it even more user-friendly and adaptable to workflows. With the Panning Assist function, image stabilisation and subject blur correction can be applied during exposure. This improves the number of successful panning shots a photographer can capture, while using shutter speeds up to two stops slower than previously possible, with the ability to retain sharp details. It’s not just lightning-fast motorsport shots that this upgrade supports. EOS R3 users can now pre-register up to ten people so that their faces can be detected and tracked based on a priority set in the camera. This is especially useful whe