Nikon India Announces the High-Definition D-SLR D810A for Astrophotographers

Nikon India introduces the Nikon D810A camera, a D-SLR1 designed with an array of features built specifically for the most dedicated astrophotography hobbyists. Often requiring custom equipment and hours of persistence, stunning images of the night sky are within reach with the D810A, a pinnacle of bespoke imaging technology.

The D810A can capture astronomical subjects that emit the H-alpha wavelengths of light such as nebulae and other distant galaxies in red, allowing astrophotographers to see them just as imagined. Helping even the most skilled photographers, are features such as longer exposures in low-light conditions with minimal noise, and a live view preview function which assists with planning the best shots. In addition, 36.3 megapixels ensure superior image quality in ultra-high definition.

On the announcement, Mr. Hiroshi Takashina, Managing Director, Nikon India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Nikon is always up for a challenge and empowering astrophotographers with a dedicated camera of unprecedented image quality was one intriguing task. We are thrilled to announce the launch of Nikon D810A, a class-leading, high-definition D-SLR that will bring astrophotographers one step closer to capturing the majestic vastness and beauty of space while offering them a new perspective in stunning detail.”

“The Nikon D810A has been designed keeping in mind the obstacles that astrophotographers face; it is a result of an amalgamation of advanced imaging technology and suite of outstanding features. Nikon D810A is a 36.3 megapixels camera crafted with unique ability to capture subjects with H-alpha wavelengths, ensuring rich vibrant capture for images of the cosmos that are true to the eye”, said Mr. Sajjan Kumar, Vice President – Imaging Division, Nikon India Pvt. Ltd.

The D810A is designed to deliver superior image quality. At the core of full FX performance, images with rich tonality and high resolution are guaranteed with the 36.3-megapixel Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor built without an optical low-pass filter. Also ensuring unrivalled image quality is the EXPEED 4 image-processing engine, which improves noise reduction performance at high sensitivities, as well as upgraded depth and clarity in gradation rendering. Made for capturing the night sky, the ISO sensitivity ranges from ISO 200 to 12800 and can be decreased to Lo 1 (ISO 100 equivalent), or increased up to Hi 2 (ISO 51200 equivalent) to suit a variety of environments.

With the special long exposure Manual mode, shutter speed can be set up to 900 seconds, making the D810A a light capturing powerhouse, able to shoot in the darkest of conditions. Be it the Milky Way or a meteor shower, users will find it a breeze to shoot in low-light conditions. The D810A offers an intelligent solution to this with the live view preview function which displays a brighter, clearer preview image when the shutter speed is set at 30 seconds or longer, enabling easier focusing and framing adjustment, while minimizing misaligned focus on the desired subject.

The D810A is especially adept at capturing crisp, clear images of the moon’s surface or landscape photos with minimal blur, when using telephoto lenses. An electronic front-curtain shutter can be enabled to reduce internal mechanical vibration, by eliminating the movement of the conventional front curtain of a mechanical shutter. Vibration from mirror movement is also reduced with mirror-up shooting, increasing image clarity.

A variety of accessories to support the enthusiasm for the craft is also available, making astrophotography easier and more enjoyable. From a remote cord for remote shutter release, battery pack for longer battery life and uninterrupted captures, to a GPS unit which enables the recording of latitude, longitude, altitude, and Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) where photos were taken, these equipment are ready to assist an astrophotographer’s exploration of the galaxy. The new Picture Control system is also supported by the D810A and users can utilize the free Capture NX-D software application to process and adjust RAW images for full-scale photofinishing.

The Nikon D810A will be available by late May 2015.