The new EOS 60Da Digital SLR Camera was launched by Canon U.S.A., Inc. on the 3^rd of April, 2012. This beauty has been the aptly optimized for the demands of astrophotography and comes long after the EOS 20Da was launched in 2006. This is now thus the most optimized model for both hobbyist astrophotographers who like to capture the colors of the night sky and also for serious professionals who use astrophotography as a research tool. The bright cosmic phenomenon like the nebulae and red-hydrogen emission are precisely captured by the low-noise sensor and a modified infrared filter.

According to Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A., this gadget is born out of the company’s desire to cater to the demands of every variety of customers, in this case, the ones in specialized fields. While it is nearly impossible to capture the celestial phenomenon with normal conventional cameras, this device allows for precise and accurate study.

The new Canon EOS 60Da comes with a power packed 18 – MP CMOS (APS-C) sensor producing high contrast sharp imagery of the space. This is a major change over its predecessor, the Canon EOS 20Da that came with an 8.2 – MP sensor. The specialized infrared blocking filter allows hydrogen-alpha light sensitivity that is three times from that of a normal DSLR. Thus a 20 percent greater transmittance of H α wavelength (hydrogen alpha line) is produced, thereby forming precise and distinct image of the brilliant reddish nebulae.

Advanced features

The modified 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen of the Canon EOS 60Da comes with 1,040,000 dots for a more precise focusing. The third-party T-ring adapter and the swivel Vari-angle screen LCD allows easy mount on a telescope and subsequent adjustments. For research and educational purposes, the camera is provided with a AVC-DC400ST Stereo AV Video Cable that can be connected onto the T.V. or the computer for live view of the dynamic night sky. To enhance the stability of the shutter release, the Canon EOS 60Da is provided with Silent Shooting enhancement. This is especially required when the camera is mounted upon a super-telephoto EF lens.

With a low noise sensor, photographers have the advantage of experimenting with higher ISO numbers. The ISO in the Canon EOS 60Da can be increased up to 12800. Another noteworthy feature is its nine-point autofocusing control.

Accessories

All of Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses and other EOS accessories are compatible with the EOS 60Da. The gadget comes along with a RA-E3 Remote Controller Adapter that allows connectivity to TC-80N3 remote and other Canon Timer Remote Controls. This is especially required to capture long exposure shots with negligible shake when mounted upon a telescope. An attached adapted kit allows connection with a battery-powered inverter or an AC wall outlet that is ideally suited for long exposure shots taken both at home and in the field.

This specialized gadget is available with authorized dealers and will be up for sale by the end of this month. The price is estimated to be $1,499.00.