RC20’s Key Features
Large Aperture and Ritchey-Chrétien Optics
The RC20 features a purely reflective Ritchey-Chrétien optical system, which includes high-quality mirrors with enhanced coatings. This setup minimizes chromatic aberration and ensures excellent light throughput, providing superb image fidelity and contrast. This optical design shines when making observations, primarily on-axis, and wide-field imaging is not a concern.
Mechanical Structure
Constructed from lightweight yet durable materials, including a dual carbon-fiber truss design, the 20-inch Ritchey-Chrétien ensures structural integrity and reduces the overall weight. This makes it easier to handle and mount on various telescope mounts.
Thermal Management
Equipped with three cooling fans at the back of the telescope, the RC20 achieves thermal equilibrium quickly. This feature helps to reduce air turbulence inside the telescope tube, minimizing thermal distortions and maintaining optimal imaging conditions.
Application-Specific Benefits
Astrophotography
The large aperture and precision optics of the 20-Inch Ritchey-Chrétien enable astrophotographers to capture detailed and crisp images of celestial phenomena, making it an excellent tool for capturing faint galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.
Astronomy Research
With its reliable performance and detailed imaging capabilities, the 20-inch Ritchey-Chrétien is a valuable asset for universities and research observatories that engage in complex studies such as stellar classification, photometric research, and other scientific investigations.
Optical Systems
Aperture | 508 mm (20") |
Focal Length | 3556 mm (140") |
Focal Ratio | f/7 |
Central Obstruction | 39% of the Primary Mirror Diameter |
Back Focus from Racked in Focuser | 147 mm (5.8") |
Weight | 63.5 kg (140 lbs) |
OTA Length | 1194 mm (47") |
Upper Cage | Carbon Fiber Truss |
Lower Cage | Carbon Fiber Truss with Carbon Fiber Light Shroud |
Secondary Mirro
Diameter | 191mm (7.5") |
Material | Fused silica |
Shape | Hyperbolic |
Coating | Enhanced Aluminum – 96% |
Primary Mirror
Optical Diameter | 508 mm (20") |
Outer Diameter | 521 mm (20.5") |
Shape | Hyperbolic |
Material | Enhanced Aluminum – 96% |
Coating | Fused Silica |
Included Items | Heating Elements for Dew Prevention - The heating pads on the primary and secondary mirror require the 600195 Delta-T controller sold separately |
OTA Cover - To protect the primary mirror and inside of the optical tube | |
Flashdrive - Contains software and instructions for collimation and spacing the primary to secondary mirror | |
Wrench Set (5812A35) - Standard hex wrenches (European orders only) |