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OM System OM-3 Astro Camera Body
Just launched!
Product Code: 4010958A
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With a modified infrared cut filter, Starry Sky AF and dedicated astrophotography profiles, the OM System OM-3 Astro Camera Body is tailored specifically for night sky photography and deep-sky imaging.
Pre-order today for first available UK stock. First deliveries from Mar.
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We Love
- Dedicated astro camera for capture of red nebulae through enhanced Hα sensitivity
- In-camera stacking reduces the need for specific astrophotography software
- Starry Sky AF removes guesswork from night-time focusing
- Weather sealing supports long overnight photography sessions in exposed locations
- Body mount filter compatibility works with wide-angle and fisheye lenses
OM System OM-3 Astro Camera Body Summary
The OM System OM-3 Astro Camera Body is a dedicated astrophotography camera based on the OM-3, with optical characteristics adjusted specifically for night sky and deep-sky imaging. Its defining change is a modified infrared cut filter that allows near-total transmission of Hα wavelengths, enabling direct capture of red nebulae that standard digital cameras largely suppress.
This model complements the standard OM-3 as a specialist variant with altered filter behaviour giving images a strong red bias, which makes the camera unsuitable for general daylight photography.
A 20 MP stacked BSI Live MOS sensor and TruePic X processor handle high-sensitivity shooting with controlled noise, while computational features such as High Res Shot stacking, Starry Sky AF and Live Composite support scenic nightscapes and tracked deep-sky astrophotography. Weather sealing to IP53 allows use in cold, damp overnight conditions, making this body well suited to long astrophotography sessions.
Overview of key differences
Compared with the standard OM-3, the Astro camera replaces the conventional IR-cut filter with one tailored to astrophotography. This increases transmission of Hα wavelengths to approximately 100%, allowing emission nebulae to be recorded with visible red colour rather than appearing muted or colourless.
Colour profile presets are also configured differently, with custom modes for nebula imaging and starry landscapes, which enables consistent colour output without extensive post-processing. The sensor, processor, stabilisation system and body construction are the same as the regular OM-3 camera, which means handling, controls and weather resistance are unchanged.
OM System OM-3 Astro Key Features
- Modified IR-cut filter enabling near-total Hα wavelength transmission
- 20 MP stacked BSI Live MOS sensor with TruePic X processing
- High Res Shot stacking for 50 MP composite images
- Starry Sky AF with autofocus detection optimised for pinpoint light sources
- Live Composite mode with live preview for star trails and long exposures
- Five-axis Sync IS stabilisation supporting multi-frame night shooting
- IP53-rated sealing for cold, damp environments
- Preset custom modes with dedicated astrophotography profiles
When mounted on a tripod or equatorial mount, the OM-3 Astro operates like a conventional OM-3 in terms of balance and control layout. Menu and physical dials are unchanged, with custom modes allow quick switching between tracked deep-sky imaging and static starry landscapes. In addition to tripod and mount-based shooting, the OM-3 Astro also supports handheld night sky photography for exposures, aided by in-body stabilisation and night-focused shooting modes.
OM System OM-3 Astro Camera Body in More Detail
Image output and spectral response
The defining characteristic of the OM-3 Astro is its modified infrared cut filter positioned in front of the sensor. This filter allows Hα wavelengths, which are commonly emitted by nebulae, to pass through almost unattenuated.
Typically nebulae appear faint or colourless on standard cameras, whereas the OM-3 Astro can record images with visible red structure directly in-camera. This spectral behaviour introduces a pronounced red cast in non-astronomical scenes, which is why the body is not suitable for everyday photography.
The 20 MP stacked BSI Live MOS sensor supports high-sensitivity shooting with colour separation at elevated ISO values. Combined with TruePic X processing, faint stars and nebula detail remain distinct without aggressive noise reduction smearing fine structure.
High Res Shot stacking for astrophotography
High Res Shot on the OM-3 Astro uses multi-frame stacking to produce a composite image of approximately 50 million pixels from 12 captured frames. When used on a tripod, the camera aligns frames to correct for apparent star movement caused by Earth’s rotation.
When paired with an equatorial mount, the same process corrects minor tracking errors. This mirrors common astronomical stacking workflows while producing a single composite file in-camera, reducing post-processing requirements.
Night shooting tools
Starry Sky AF enables autofocus acquisition on small point light sources, removing the need for repeated manual focus checks. Live Composite creates long exposures incrementally while displaying progress on screen, allowing star trails to be monitored without overexposing brighter areas. Night View mode brightens the live display without affecting exposure, making composition and levelling practical in very dark environments.
Stabilisation and weather sealing
5-axis Sync IS supports stabilised multi-frame capture when High Res Shot is used in static setups. While astrophotography typically relies on tripods or mounts, stabilisation assists when shooting wider nightscapes or foreground elements before or after astronomical sequences.
IP53-rated sealing protects the body from condensation, light rain and freezing temperatures during overnight photography, reducing the need for additional protection in typical UK conditions.
Body mount filter compatibility
The OM-3 Astro supports internal body mount filters fitted between the lens mount and sensor. Compatible options include the BMF-LPC01 Light Pollution Suppression Filter, which reduces artificial light contamination near the horizon, and the BMF-SE01 Soft Filter, which enlarges and emphasises bright stars for a more expressive rendering. Only one body mount filter can be used at a time.
Frequently asked questions
Is the OM-3 Astro suitable for everyday photography?
No. The modified IR-cut filter produces a strong red colour bias, making it unsuitable for general daylight or portrait photography without heavy correction.
What makes the OM-3 Astro different from the standard OM-3?
The Astro version uses a modified infrared cut filter that allows Hα wavelengths to pass through, enabling direct capture of red nebulae.
Does the camera support tracked astrophotography setups?
Yes. The body can be mounted on an equatorial mount or telescope adapter using Micro Four Thirds-compatible accessories.
How does High Res Shot work for night sky imaging?
It combines 12 frames into a single approximately 50 MP image, correcting star movement on a tripod or tracking errors on an equatorial mount.
Can it autofocus on stars?
Yes. Starry Sky AF detects and focuses on small point light sources such as stars.
Are body mount filters required?
No. Filters are optional and sold separately and extend creative control but are not required for basic astrophotography.
Is the OM-3 Astro weather sealed?
Yes. The body is rated to IP53 for dust, splash and freeze resistance.
To find out more, including more about mount options and settings read our blog post How is the OM-3 Astro Camera Different?
OM System OM-3 Astro Sample images
Sample OM-3 Astro with M.Zuiko Digital ED 12mm F/2. Camera settings: Exposure 10 seconds. f/2.0. ISO 12800
Sample 03 OM-3 Astro with OM-System M.Zuiko Digital ED 75mm F/1.8. Camera settings: Exposure 40 seconds. f/2.8. ISO 3200
Sample OM-3 Astro with M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F/4 IS PRO. Camera settings: Exposure 60 seconds. f/4.0. ISO 6400
What’s in the box
- OM-3 Astro camera body
- Battery
- Body cap
- USB cable
- Shoulder strap
- Instruction manual
- Warranty card
OM System OM-3 Astro Camera Specifications
|
Sensor |
20 MP stacked BSI Live MOS sensor |
|
Image processor |
TruePic X |
|
Lens mount |
Micro Four Thirds |
|
Image stabilisation |
5-axis Sync IS for approx. centre 6.5 steps, corner 5.5 steps |
|
High resolution mode |
Multi-frame High Res Shot producing approximately 50 MP images |
|
Autofocus |
Starry Sky AF and contrast-based AF system |
|
Viewfinder |
2.36 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder |
|
Rear display |
3.0-inch vari-angle monitor, Approx. 1620k dots (3:2) Tilting Capability |
|
Weather sealing |
IP53 dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof |
|
Wireless connectivity |
WiFi and Bluetooth |
|
Memory |
SD, SDHC (UHS-I / II), SDXC(UHS-I / II) |
|
Battery |
BLX-1 Li-ion battery |
|
Dimensions |
Approx. 139.3ｍｍ (W) x 88.9ｍｍ (H) x 45.8ｍm (D) |
|
Weight (g) |
496g (with 1x bundled battery and 1 memory card, without eyecup) |
|
Operating Environment |
-10℃ ~ +40℃ (when in operation), -20 ~ +60℃ (when stored) |
|
Humidity |
30%~90% (when in operation), 10%~90% (when stored) |
Thinking of choosing finance?
Finance is a great way to spread the cost of your purchase. To make it easy we have teamed up with Omni, one of the UK’s leading finance specialists, so that you can apply for and complete a loan application quickly, easily and informatively.
Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd which is a credit provider/ lender regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority whose finance options are best suited for you and your purchase.
Simply add the items you love to your basket. Once you are at the checkout select the finance option that suits you and choose Omni. The quick application form is simple and should take no more than a couple of minutes to complete and you will receive a decision instantly. Easy!
Use our finance calculator to check the impact of various loan values, terms and interest rates on the total amount you need to pay and the monthly repayments.
Representative example:
Buy a £1,200.00 camera and pay a 10% deposit of £120. You'll borrow £1,080 over 24 months with an annual interest rate of 14.9% (fixed) with a first payment of £52.04 followed by 23 monthly repayments of £51.83. The total amount payable will be £1,244.13 14.9% APR Representative.
Finance available See options |
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Check your eligibility
To be considered for finance, you will need to meet all of the following criteria:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Are in regular full or part-time employment (minimum 1 hour per week or £10,000 income per annum), unless you are retired and receiving a private or company pension, or you are in receipt of disability living allowance
- Are a permanent UK resident and have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
- Have a UK bank account capable of accepting Direct Debits
- Have a good credit history with no late payments, Debt Relief Orders, County Court Judgments or bankruptcies.
Please note that, due to calculations, your monthly repayment may differ very slightly from what you were expecting. Please check your monthly repayment figure before proceeding
Missed or late payments will result in fees and additional interest on your loan and can also affect your credit file and your ability to obtain credit in the future.
Credit is subject to status, UK only, 18+
Park Cameras Limited is a credit broker, not a lender and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 680161). We do not charge you for credit broking services. We will introduce you exclusively to finance products provided by Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd.
Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd which is a credit provider/ lender regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Reference Number: 720279. For more information please go to www.omnicapitalretailfinance.co.uk/contact/customer or visit www.omnicapitalretailfinance.co.uk.
Find out more about paying with finance here and Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd terms here
Our Verdict
The OM System OM-3 Astro is a specialist tool for astrophotographers who want to capture nebulae and night sky detail that standard cameras cannot without modification. The altered spectral response changes image output, which makes it unsuitable for everyday photography but highly effective for astro.
By combining enhanced Hα transmission with High Res Shot stacking, Starry Sky AF and Live Composite, the camera supports both tracked deep-sky work and wide nightscapes. Handling, controls and durability are consistent with the regular OM-3, which helps keep field operation familiar to existing Om System users.
This is a purpose-made camera for astrophotography straight out of the camera.
If you are upgrading from another Micro Four Thirds body or selling any unwanted equipment, Park Cameras offers a trade-in service to offset the cost of moving to the Astro model.
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Condition guide
Our used products are subject to wear and tear in comparison to brand new products. This also applies to accessories that are supplied with the camera including batteries which may have a lower optimum performance level/life expectancy.
- Like New – The equipment is in a condition as if you have just bought it from the manufacturer. The item is still considered to be ‘Like New’ even without the original packaging and accessories. The product has been fully tested and is in perfect working order. Lenses are optically clear. There may be light dust present that will not effect the imagery.
- Excellent – The equipment should be close to being ‘Like New’ but there may be some small cosmetic blemishes that lower its grade. The product has been fully tested and is in perfect excellent order.
- Cameras – Should have no marks on the LCD screen
- Lenses – Should have no marks on the elements and optically clear. There may be light dust present that will not effect the imagery.
- Very Good – The equipment may have some slight cosmetic wear to the paintwork and cosmetic blemishes with only light signs of use and the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – The LCD screen may have small signs of wear that does not affect its display
- Lenses – The mount of the lens will start to show signs of wear
- Good – The equipment is showing more obvious signs of cosmetic wear and blemishes, but the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – LCD screen may have scratches or wear that is starting to affect the display.
- Lenses – May have slight dust inside that does not affect images. The mount shows signs of use.
- Well Used – The equipment will show significant signs of wear. The paintwork will be coming away in large areas exposing the metal work, but the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – LCD screen is heavily worn either by de-lamination or has scratches to it. Rubber grips are starting to come away from the body.
- Lenses – The lens has dust inside that may affect images. The rubber zoom/focus ring is coming away from the barrel of the lens.
*All of our used items are listed with the accessories that are included. If they are not listed, then they will not be supplied at the point of purchase.
Peace of mind with our 6 month warranty
This product has been thoroughly tested by our team of photographers and we are happy to give a 6 month warranty as a result. The number of tests depends on the individual product but we are confident in this product having tested all the major functions. Anything that isn’t as you would expect, we then make a note of and show this in the condition notes on the page.
So you can be confident you are buying a great piece of kit that’s been looked after by a fellow photographer and seen many extraordinary sights, tested by our team of photographers and now looking forward to being set free to capture more great images!
