These webcams use a Sony ICX098BQ CCD image sensor chip. They have superb sensitivity (<1 lux) in low light conditions. This combination of low light sensitivity and high quality electronics makes these excellent webcams for lunar and planetary astrophotography. Converting them for astronomical use with a telescope is a simple job of unscrewing the lens and replacing it with a 'standard' 1.25" adaptor (priced usually ~£10). There are drivers for Win XP, VISTA, 7 & MAC.