PlaneWave CDK 14" Fused Silica

The CDK (Corrected Dall-Kirkham) Optical Design is an innovative solution for unsurpassed astroimaging quality at an affordable price. The CDK telescope design provides excellent imaging with large format CCD cameras while remaining superb for visual use. The CDK design far exceeds the off-axis performance of most commercial telescope designs including the Ritchey-Chrétien design.

FUSED SILICA

Fused Silica is a synthetic amorphous silica glass of the highest purity and one of the most transparent glasses made.

The optical and thermal properties of fused silica are superior to other types of glass due to its purity. Its transmission and homogeneity exceed those of crystalline quartz without the problems of temperature instability inherent in the crystalline form.

Fused Silica has a coefficient of thermal six times lower than Borosilicate glass, which means that as fused silica cools down, it preserves its shape to a high degree of accuracy. This translates into consistent optical performance and unchanging focus over temperature changes.

With high melting temperature (~1,600 degrees Celsius), a very low coefficient of thermal expansion and resistance to thermal shock, fused silica is the material of choice for professional observatories as well as various scientific applications.

This no-compromise design is unique in making the optical alignment forgiving and collimation very easy. This guarantees the user the best possible performance from the telescope. The end result at the image plane of the CDK design is no off-axis coma, no off-axis astigmatism, perfectly flat field (no off-axis defocus). The CDK design will give you pinpoint stars from the center to the corner of the field of view.

More about our Optical Design

Features:

PlaneWave CDK 14" Fused Silica Specifications

OPTICAL SYSTEM

SECONDARY MIRROR

PRIMARY MIRROR

LENS GROUP

STANDARD FEATURES

SHIPPING

NOTE: This product has a lengthy lead time. Please contact education@bintel.com.au for further information.

CDK20’s Key Features

Large Aperture and Moderate Focal Ratio

The CDK20 f/6.8 features a significant 508 mm aperture and an f/6.8 focal ratio. This combination provides excellent light-gathering capabilities and a wide field of view, enhancing its ability to capture detailed images of deep-sky objects for astrophotography and research purposes.

Advanced Optical Design

Equipped with a state-of-the-art Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical system, the CDK20 offers unmatched image clarity. It eliminates off-axis coma and astigmatism and provides a perfectly flat field, ensuring images are crisp and detailed across the entire field of view, requiring minimal post-processing.

Robust Mechanical Structure

Built with a carbon fiber optical tube, the CDK20 is both durable and lightweight. Its design minimizes thermal expansion, ensuring minimal focus shift with temperature changes, which is ideal for extended observing sessions under diverse environmental conditions.

High-Performance Mirrors and Coatings

Utilizing fused silica mirrors, the CDK20 maintains precise optical alignment and exceptional surface accuracy, even during temperature fluctuations. The high-quality coatings improve light transmission and reduce stray light, optimizing the telescope's performance for specialized observational tasks.

Thermal Management

The CDK20 has cooling fans and a Delta-T ready system to achieve thermal equilibrium swiftly. These features help reduce air turbulence within the tube, thus minimizing image distortion and maintaining consistent imaging quality.

Integrated Dew Control

The telescope includes advanced dew prevention technology with heater pads controlled by PlaneWave’s software. This ensures optical surfaces remain free from condensation in humid conditions, thus maintaining clear and consistent imaging performance.

Application-Specific Benefits

Astrophotography

With its large image circle and exceptional field flatness, the CDK20 allows astrophotographers to capture expansive and breathtaking views of the cosmos with incredible detail and clarity.

Astronomy Research

The stable and precise imaging capabilities of the CDK20 make it an invaluable asset for academic institutions and observatories engaged in sophisticated astronomical research, including deep-sky surveys and detailed photometric studies.

Visual Observations

The CDK20 excels in visual observation, providing bright and clear views ideal for star parties and serious visual astronomy. Its large aperture and superior optical quality deliver stunning views of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, making every viewing session a memorable experience. Here's the updated article adapted for the CDK17 based on the features and specifications from the provided product page:

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

The CDK20 also lends itself to Space Situational Awareness and Space Domain Awareness applications. Its capability to provide detailed observations can be essential for tracking and monitoring satellites and other space debris, contributing valuable data for space traffic management and safety initiatives.

Optical Systems

Secondary Mirror

Lens Group

Primary Mirror

Capturing the most stunning astrophotographs possible is something our team is passionate about. From design to manufacture, our goal with the Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) 20″ telescope was centered around performance and ease of use. The Planewave CDK20 f/7.7 OTA is an incredible breakthrough in telescope technology and produces no off-axis coma and no off-axis astigmatism. Additionally, the CDK20 provides a perfectly flat field so your astrophotographs will have stunning clarity from corner to corner of the image without field curvature degrading the photos. Offering the simplicity of single-mirror collimation, the stray light control of advanced baffles, structural performance created through finite element analysis (FEA), and decades of telescope design experience, the CDK20 is an exceptional diffraction-limited telescope. CDK20 users can experience pinpoint stars edge-to-edge and a 45 x 45 arcminute field of view when using large 16803 size camera sensors. When equipment fades into the background and simply performs, the astrophotography experience becomes even more fun and rewarding!

CDK24’s Key Features

Large Aperture and Moderate Focal Ratio

The CDK24 features a substantial 610 mm aperture and a moderate f/6.5 focal ratio. This setup enhances its capability to capture deep-sky objects with remarkable detail, providing excellent light-gathering efficiency and a broad field of view for research and imaging.

Advanced Optical Design

Equipped with a state-of-the-art Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical system, the CDK24 offers exceptional image clarity. Its design eliminates off-axis coma and astigmatism and delivers a perfectly flat field, ensuring images are sharp and detailed across the entire field of view with minimal post-processing adjustments.

Robust Mechanical Structure

Constructed with a carbon fiber optical tube, the CDK24 is lightweight and durable. Its thermal expansion coefficient ensures minimal focus shift as temperatures change, making it ideal for prolonged observing sessions under varying environmental conditions.

High-Performance Mirrors and Coatings

Utilizing fused silica mirrors, the CDK24 maintains precise optical alignment and surface accuracy, even with temperature fluctuations. Its high-quality coatings enhance light transmission and reduce stray light, optimizing performance for specialized observational tasks.

Thermal Management

The CDK24 is equipped with cooling fans and a Delta-T ready system to achieve thermal equilibrium swiftly. These features help to minimize air turbulence within the tube, thus reducing image distortion and maintaining consistent imaging quality.

Integrated Dew Control

The telescope incorporates advanced dew prevention technology with heater pads controlled by PlaneWave’s software. This ensures that optical surfaces remain clear of condensation during humid conditions, thus maintaining clear and consistent imaging performance.

Application-Specific Benefits

Astrophotography

With its large image circle and exquisite field flatness, the CDK24 allows astrophotographers to capture expansive and breathtaking views of the cosmos with incredible detail and clarity.

Astronomy Research

The precise and stable imaging capabilities of the CDK24 make it an invaluable tool for academic institutions and observatories engaged in complex astronomical research, including deep-sky surveys and detailed photometric studies.

Visual Observations

The CDK24 excels in visual observation, offering bright and crisp views ideal for star parties and serious visual astronomy. The telescope's large aperture and superior optical quality provide stunning views of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, making every viewing session a remarkable experience.

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

The CDK24 also lend itself to applications in Space Situational Awareness and Space Domain Awareness. Its capability to provide detailed observations can be essential for tracking and monitoring satellites and other space debris, contributing valuable data for space traffic management and safety initiatives.

Optical Systems

Secondary Mirror

Lens Group

Primary Mirror

The CDK400 Observatory System from PlaneWave Instruments is designed for the sophisticated astrophotographer and dedicated astronomy researcher. This premium package combines the high-performing CDK17 optical tube with the advanced L-500 direct-drive mount to provide a superior observational platform that excels in a range of applications, from detailed celestial research to high-end astrophotography.

Key Features of the CDK400 Observatory System

CDK17 Optical Tube Assembly

• Aperture and Focal Length: Features a 17-inch aperture and a 2939 mm focal length at an f/6.8 focal ratio, optimizing it for deep-sky imaging with excellent depth and clarity.
• Advanced Optical Design: Utilizes a Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical design, delivering a field free of off-axis coma and astigmatism and achieving a perfectly flat field across a 70 mm image circle, resulting in critically sharp images across the entire viewing area.
• High-Quality Construction: Made with lightweight yet robust carbon fiber, reducing thermal expansion and allowing for rapid thermal equilibration, which helps maintain precise optical alignment under fluctuating temperatures.
• Superior Mirrors and Coatings: Equipped with high-stability fused silica mirrors known for minimal thermal expansion, paired with high-performance coatings that maximize light throughput while minimizing stray light for optimal imaging quality.
• Thermal Management: Features an advanced cooling system with strategically placed fans that promote rapid thermal stabilization, essential for maintaining consistent high-quality imaging and minimizing focus shifts caused by temperature changes.

L-500 Direct Drive Mount

• Direct Drive Motors: Employs state-of-the-art direct-drive motors on each axis, ensuring smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope with zero backlash and zero periodic error, perfect for precise tracking and swift repositioning of celestial objects.
• High-Resolution Encoders: Outfitted with high-resolution optical encoders on both axes, providing exacting positioning and movement, crucial for top-tier astrophotography and detailed astronomical studies.
• Azimuth Dovetail Balance System: Incorporates a finely adjustable balance system that improves the stability and performance of the setup in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, essential for prolonged accurate tracking and reducing stress on the mount during extended observations.
• Rapid Target Acquisition: Achieves impressive slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, allowing for quick and efficient targeting of celestial bodies and satellites, vital for dynamic observations and responsive astrophotography.

Application-Specific Advantages

Astrophotography

The CDK400 stands out as a formidable system for astrophotographers, offering unmatched tracking accuracy and image stability which facilitate capturing spectacular celestial images with detailed resolution and vibrant colors.

Astronomy Research

Researchers will appreciate the CDK400 for its consistent performance and precise data collection capabilities. It serves as a robust platform for sophisticated photometry, spectroscopy, and minor planet tracking, offering a solid foundation for scientific discovery and exploration.

Visual Observations

For enthusiasts of visual astronomy, the CDK400 delivers vibrant and detailed views of the universe. Its significant aperture and high-quality optical components ensure exceptional viewing of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, enriching every observational experience.

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

With its swift and precise repositioning capabilities, the L-500 mount in the CDK400 system is capable of tracking satellites and space debris. However, it's important to note that while the L-series mounts are highly effective for astrophotography and research applications, they might not meet the optimal performance standards required for dedicated SSA/SDA operations. For those needs, we recommend exploring our T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal, specifically engineered to exceed the demanding requirements for SSA/SDA applications, ensuring superior tracking and responsiveness in monitoring and cataloging space objects.

Mount System 

Control System

Optical Systems

Mechanical Structure

Motion control

System Performance 

Included items

The CDK300 Observatory System from PlaneWave Instruments, an elite configuration designed specifically for the astrophotography enthusiast and serious astronomy researcher. This system combines the precision-engineered CDK12.5 optical tube assembly with the robust L-350 direct-drive mount, offering an unparalleled observational experience that excels in a wide array of applications from detailed celestial studies to advanced astrophotography.

Key Features of the CDK300 Observatory System

CDK12.5 Optical Tube Assembly

• Aperture and Focal Length: Features a 12.5-inch aperture and a 2541 mm focal length at an f/8 focal ratio, perfect for capturing deep-sky objects with exceptional depth of field and clarity.
• Advanced Optical Design: Utilizes a Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical design, eliminating off-axis coma and astigmatism while achieving a perfectly flat field across a 52 mm image circle, ensuring sharp and detailed images across the entire field.
• High-Quality Construction: The optical tube is constructed from lightweight and sturdy carbon fiber, reducing thermal expansion and allowing rapid cooling, which maintains optical alignment in varying temperatures.
• Superior Mirrors and Coatings: Equipped with rock-solid fused silica mirrors known for their low thermal expansion, along with high-quality coatings that maximize light transmission and minimize stray light.
• Thermal Management: Incorporates a sophisticated cooling system featuring three rear cooling fans and four boundary layer fans. This setup rapidly achieves thermal equilibrium, essential for maintaining consistent imaging quality during long exposure astrophotography and reducing thermal-induced focus shifts.

L-350 Direct Drive Mount

• Direct Drive Motors: Employs state-of-the-art direct-drive motors on each axis, providing smooth, fast, and ultra-quiet movement of the telescope with zero backlash and zero periodic error.
• High-Resolution Encoders: Integrated high-resolution encoders offer precise positioning, essential for capturing high-quality astrophotography and conducting detailed astronomical research.
• Azimuth Dovetail Balance System: Provides precise center of gravity adjustments, enhancing the stability and performance of the system in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, crucial for maintaining accurate tracking and reducing strain on the mount during extended observations.
• Azimuth Dovetail Balance System: Provides precise center of gravity adjustments, enhancing the stability and performance of the system in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, crucial for maintaining accurate tracking and reducing strain on the mount during extended observations.
• Rapid Target Acquisition: Equipped with direct-drive motors capable of slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, enabling quick and efficient targeting of celestial objects and satellites, crucial for dynamic observations and time-sensitive astrophotography.

Application-Specific Advantages

Astrophotography

The CDK300 system is a powerhouse for astrophotographers, providing exceptional tracking accuracy and image stability which allow for capturing breathtaking celestial images with intricate details and vibrant colors.

Astronomy Research

Researchers will find the CDK300 invaluable for its consistent performance and precise data collection capabilities. Ideal for photometry, spectroscopy, and minor planet tracking, it serves as a reliable platform for scientific exploration and discovery.

Visual Observations

For those who enjoy visual astronomy, the CDK300 offers vibrant and detailed views of the cosmos. Its large aperture and high-quality optical components make it perfect for viewing planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, enriching every observational session.

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

With its swift and precise repositioning capabilities, the L-350 mount in the CDK300 system is capable of tracking satellites and space debris. However, it's important to note that while the L-series mounts are highly effective for astrophotography and research applications, they might not meet the optimal performance standards required for dedicated SSA/SDA operations. For those needs, we recommend exploring our T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal, specifically engineered to exceed the demanding requirements for SSA/SDA applications, ensuring superior tracking and responsiveness in monitoring and cataloging space objects.

Mount System

Control System

Optical Systems

Mechanical Structure

Motion Control

Included Items

The CDK350 Observatory System from PlaneWave Instruments is a premium setup designed for the astrophotography aficionado and the dedicated astronomy researcher. This system marries the high-performing CDK14 optical tube assembly with the robust L-350 direct-drive mount, creating an unmatched observational platform that excels across a spectrum of applications, from deep celestial studies to sophisticated astrophotography

Key Features of the CDK350 Observatory System

CDK14 Optical Tube Assembly

• Aperture and Focal Length: Boasts a 14-inch aperture and a 2563 mm focal length at an f/7.2 focal ratio, ideal for capturing wide-field views of the cosmos with incredible depth and clarity.
• Advanced Optical Design: Features a Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical design, providing a field free of off-axis coma and astigmatism while achieving a perfectly flat field across a 70 mm image circle, ensuring critically sharp images throughout the entire field.
• High-Quality Construction: Constructed from lightweight yet durable carbon fiber, minimizing thermal expansion and allowing for rapid thermal equilibration, which helps maintain optical precision in fluctuating temperatures.
• Superior Mirrors and Coatings: Fitted with rock-solid fused silica mirrors known for their minimal thermal expansion, paired with premium coatings that enhance light throughput while minimizing stray light for optimal image quality.
• Thermal Management: Integrates an advanced cooling system with multiple fans that promote rapid thermal stabilization, essential for maintaining consistent high-quality imaging during lengthy exposures and minimizing focus shifts caused by temperature variations.

L-350 Direct Drive Mount

• Direct Drive Motors: Features sophisticated direct-drive motors on each axis, ensuring smooth, swift, and near-silent movement of the telescope with zero backlash and zero periodic error, perfect for both tracking celestial objects and quick repositioning.
• High-Resolution Encoders: Comes equipped with high-resolution optical encoders on both axes, delivering precise positioning and movement, which is critical for high-quality astrophotography and detailed celestial research.
• Azimuth Dovetail Balance System: Includes a finely adjustable balance system that enhances the stability and performance of the setup in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, critical for sustained accurate tracking and easing the strain on the mount during prolonged observations.
• Rapid Target Acquisition: Boasts direct-drive motors capable of impressive slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, allowing for quick and efficient targeting of celestial objects and satellites, vital for dynamic observations and responsive astrophotography.

Application-Specific Advantages

Astrophotography

The CDK350 is a powerhouse for astrophotographers, offering exceptional tracking accuracy and image stability which facilitate capturing breathtaking celestial images with intricate details and vibrant colors.

Astronomy Research

Researchers will find the CDK350 invaluable for its consistent performance and precise data collection capabilities. It serves as a reliable platform for photometry, spectroscopy, and minor planet tracking, providing a robust foundation for scientific exploration and discovery.

Visual Observations

For enthusiasts of visual astronomy, the CDK350 delivers vibrant and detailed views of the universe. Its substantial aperture and high-quality optical components ensure superb viewing of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, enhancing every observational session.

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

With its swift and precise repositioning capabilities, the L-350 mount in the CDK350 system is capable of tracking satellites and space debris. However, it's important to note that while the L-series mounts are highly effective for astrophotography and research applications, they might not meet the optimal performance standards required for dedicated SSA/SDA operations. For those needs, we recommend exploring our T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal, specifically engineered to exceed the demanding requirements for SSA/SDA applications, ensuring superior tracking and responsiveness in monitoring and cataloging space objects.

Mount System

Control system

Optical Systems

Mechanical Structure

Motion control

Included items 

The CDK450 Observatory System from PlaneWave Instruments is a sophisticated solution designed for the serious astrophotographer and dedicated astronomy researcher. This high-end system combines the powerful CDK17 optical tube with the precise L-550 direct-drive mount, creating an exceptional observational platform that excels in a variety of scientific and imaging applications.

Key Features of the CDK450 Observatory System

CDK17 Optical Tube Assembly

• Advanced Optical Design: Employs a Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical design, achieving a field free of off-axis coma and astigmatism and a perfectly flat field across a 52 mm image circle, resulting in critically sharp images over the entire viewing area.
• High-Quality Construction: Constructed with robust carbon fiber, reducing thermal expansion and enabling quick thermal equilibration, which helps maintain precise optical alignment under fluctuating temperatures.
• Superior Mirrors and Coatings: Equipped with high-stability fused silica mirrors known for minimal thermal expansion, paired with high-performance coatings that maximize light throughput while minimizing stray light for optimal imaging quality.
• Thermal Management: Incorporates an advanced cooling system with strategically placed fans that ensure rapid thermal stabilization, essential for maintaining consistent, high-quality imaging and minimizing focus shifts caused by temperature changes.

CDK17 f/6.8 OTA

• Aperture and Focal Length: Features a 17-inch aperture, a shorter 3454 mm focal length at a faster f/6.8 focal ratio, and a shorter back focus of 262 mm.

L-550 Direct Drive Mount

• Direct Drive Motors: Features state-of-the-art direct-drive motors on each axis, providing smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope with zero backlash and zero periodic error, perfect for precise tracking and rapid repositioning of celestial objects.
• High-Resolution Encoders: Outfitted with high-resolution optical encoders on both axes, offering precise positioning and movement, which is crucial for elite astrophotography and detailed astronomical studies.
• Azimuth Dovetail Balance System: Includes a finely adjustable balance system that enhances the stability and performance of the setup in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, essential for prolonged accurate tracking and reducing stress on the mount during extended observations.
• Rapid Target Acquisition: Capable of impressive slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, allowing for quick and efficient targeting of celestial bodies and satellites, vital for dynamic observations and responsive astrophotography.

Application-Specific Advantages

Astrophotography

The CDK450 is a formidable system for astrophotographers, offering unmatched tracking accuracy and image stability, which facilitate capturing spectacular celestial images with detailed resolution and vibrant colors. The L-550 carries a greater payload capacity – perfect for holding a second telescope on the outside hub.

Astronomy Research

Researchers will find the CDK450 invaluable for its consistent performance and precise data collection capabilities. It serves as a robust platform for sophisticated photometry, spectroscopy, and minor planet tracking, offering a solid foundation for scientific discovery and exploration.

Visual Observations

For enthusiasts of visual astronomy, the CDK450 provides vibrant and detailed views of the universe. Its significant aperture and high-quality optical components ensure exceptional viewing of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, enriching every observational experience.

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

With its swift and precise repositioning capabilities, the L-550 mount in the CDK450 system is capable of tracking satellites and space debris. However, it's important to note that while the L-series mounts are highly effective for astrophotography and research applications, they might not meet the optimal performance standards required for dedicated SSA/SDA operations. For those needs, we recommend exploring our T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal, specifically engineered to exceed the demanding requirements for SSA/SDA applications, ensuring superior tracking and responsiveness in monitoring and cataloging space objects.

Mount system 

Control system

Optical systems

Motion control 

System Performance 

Included Items

The CDK500 Observatory System from PlaneWave Instruments is a sophisticated solution designed for the serious astrophotographer and dedicated astronomy researcher. This high-end system combines the powerful CDK20 optical tube with the precise L-500 direct-drive mount, creating an exceptional observational platform that excels in a variety of scientific and imaging applications.

Key Features of the CDK500 Observatory System

CDK20 Optical Tube Assembly

• Advanced Optical Design: Employs a Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical design, achieving a field free of off-axis coma and astigmatism and a perfectly flat field across a 52 mm image circle, resulting in critically sharp images over the entire viewing area.
• High-Quality Construction: Constructed with robust carbon fiber, reducing thermal expansion and enabling quick thermal equilibration, which helps maintain precise optical alignment under fluctuating temperatures.
• Superior Mirrors and Coatings: Equipped with high-stability fused silica mirrors known for minimal thermal expansion, paired with high-performance coatings that maximize light throughput while minimizing stray light for optimal imaging quality.
• Thermal Management: Incorporates an advanced cooling system with strategically placed fans that ensure rapid thermal stabilization, essential for maintaining consistent, high-quality imaging and minimizing focus shifts caused by temperature changes.

CDK20 f/6.8 OTA

• Aperture and Focal Length: Features a 20-inch aperture, a shorter 3454 mm focal length at a faster f/6.8 focal ratio, and a shorter back focus of 223 mm.

CDK20 f/7.7 OTA

• Aperture and Focal Length: Features a 20-inch aperture, a longer 3947mm focal length at an f/7.7 focal ratio, and a longer 269.24 mm back focus.

L-500 Direct Drive Mount

• Direct Drive Motors: Features state-of-the-art direct-drive motors on each axis, providing smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope with zero backlash and zero periodic error, perfect for precise tracking and rapid repositioning of celestial objects.
• High-Resolution Encoders: Outfitted with high-resolution optical encoders on both axes, offering precise positioning and movement, which is crucial for elite astrophotography and detailed astronomical studies.
• Azimuth Dovetail Balance System: Includes a finely adjustable balance system that enhances the stability and performance of the setup in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, essential for prolonged accurate tracking and reducing stress on the mount during extended observations.
• Rapid Target Acquisition: Capable of impressive slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, allowing for quick and efficient targeting of celestial bodies and satellites, vital for dynamic observations and responsive astrophotography.

Application-Specific Advantages

Astrophotography

The CDK500 is a formidable system for astrophotographers, offering unmatched tracking accuracy and image stability, which facilitate capturing spectacular celestial images with detailed resolution and vibrant colors.

Astronomy Research

Researchers will find the CDK500 invaluable for its consistent performance and precise data collection capabilities. It serves as a robust platform for sophisticated photometry, spectroscopy, and minor planet tracking, offering a solid foundation for scientific discovery and exploration.

Visual Observations

For enthusiasts of visual astronomy, the CDK500 provides vibrant and detailed views of the universe. Its significant aperture and high-quality optical components ensure exceptional viewing of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, enriching every observational experience.

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

With its swift and precise repositioning capabilities, the L-500 mount in the CDK500 system is capable of tracking satellites and space debris. However, it's important to note that while the L-series mounts are highly effective for astrophotography and research applications, they might not meet the optimal performance standards required for dedicated SSA/SDA operations. For those needs, we recommend exploring our T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal, specifically engineered to exceed the demanding requirements for SSA/SDA applications, ensuring superior tracking and responsiveness in monitoring and cataloging space objects.

Mount systems

Control systems

Optical systems

Mechanical structure 

Motion control

System Performance 

Induced items

Counterweight kit for CDK12.5 attaches to the dovetail bar for critical balance in Declination.

• The Delta T controller is an optional accessory for dew prevention on CDK14 through CDK24 OTAs and the CDK700 system.
• CDK12.5 to CDK24 and CDK700 telescopes come with primary and secondary mirror dew heating pads (CDK700 adds tertiary mirror heating), which are ready to accept the Delta T controller.
• Controlled via PWI3 software for CDK12.5 through CDK24 OTAs (PWI2 for the CDK700).

With Delta T you can:

• Have Full Control of Primary and Secondary Heater using PlaneWave Interface (PWI3) Software.
• Monitor current temperature of primary mirror, secondary mirror and surrounding ambient temperature.
• Automatically maintains mirror temperature set point as outside temperature changes.
• Displays real time graph of all temperature sensors.

Through years of dreaming of the perfect telescope for wide-field imaging, our pursuit of innovation has finally been honored with PlaneWave’s revolutionary DeltaRho 350 f/3 telescope. The DeltaRho 350 is designed for unsurpassed wide-field imaging and ease of use in the field. Since the primary mirror is fixed in place, collimation is quickly achieved by adjusting the tip and tilt of the secondary mirror. With the Delta Rho 350, your astrophotography experience will be second to none!

• Corrected Cassegrain focus optical design
• Aperture – 350 mm
• Focal length – 1050 mm
• Focal Ratio – f/3
• 60mm Image Circle > 3 degrees
• Fixed Primary Mirror
• Collimation performed via 3 tip/tilt screws at the secondary mirror
• Backfocus of 5.651” (143.535 mm) from mounting surface (without focuser and rotator). This distance includes refraction from filters.
• Backfocus of 2.525″ (64.135 mm) with Series-5 focuser and Series-5 Rotator installed (with focuser at midpoint of travel range).
• Built-in primary and secondary dew heaters with temperature sensors
• *L-350 mount seen in product photo is sold separately

Capturing the most stunning astrophotographs possible is something our team is passionate about. From design to manufacture, our goal with the DeltaRho 350 was centered around creating a game-changing wide-field telescope. The DeltaRho 350 is a Cassegrain optical design which means the imaging train is secured at the back of the telescope and does not block the light path compared to prime focus designs, which severely limit users’ ability to operate with filterwheels or large cameras.

The DeltaRho 350 is an incredible breakthrough in telescope technology and ease of use. Operating at f/3 and 1050 mm focal length, the DeltaRho is a wide-field telescope that is sure to revolutionize your astrophotography!

Additionally, the DeltaRho 350 provides a perfectly flat field so your astrophotographs will have stunning clarity from corner to corner of the image without field curvature degrading the photos. Offering the simplicity of single-mirror collimation, the stray light control of advanced baffles, structural performance created through finite element analysis (FEA), and decades of telescope design experience, the DeltaRho 350 is an exceptional telescope. DeltaRho 350 users can experience pinpoint stars edge-to-edge and a 170 x 170 arcminute field of view when using large 16803/4040 size camera sensors. This field of view is nearly 3 times as large as our CDK14! When equipment fades into the background and simply performs, the astrophotography experience becomes even more fun and rewarding!

Optical System

Secondary Mirror

Primary Mirror

Lens Group

Standard Features

Shipping

Included Items

Recommended Accessories

OTA Accessories

• Series-5 Focuser (6011001)
• Series-5 Rotator (6021001)
• Series-5 Controller (600199)

Mount Accessories

• L-350 Direct Drive Mount (600549)
• DeltaRho 350 Piggyback Dovetail (140990)

Imaging Accessories

• Tip-Tilt Adapter for Series-5 Focuser or Rotator to SecureFit (6061006)

After successfully introducing the DeltaRho 350, the DeltaRho 500 is now available for transcending the challenges of-ultra wide field imaging. With a primary mirror that is fixed in place, collimation is quickly achieved with a simple adjustment to the tip and tilt of the secondary mirror. With more than twice the light-gathering power of the DeltaRho 350, maximizing the performance of your astrograph has never been easier due to PlaneWave’s pursuit of the perfect telescope!

• Corrected Cassegrain focus optical design
• Aperture – 508 mm (20″)
• Focal length – 1537 mm
• Focal Ratio – f/3.03
• 70mm Image Circle > 2.6 degrees
• Fixed Primary Mirror
• Collimation performed via 3 tip/tilt screws at the secondary mirror
• 9.166” (232.8 mm) from mounting surface (without focuser and rotator).
• Backfocus of 5.81″ (147.6mm) with Series-5XL focuser and Series-5 Rotator installed (with focuser at midpoint of travel range).
• Built-in primary and secondary dew heaters with temperature sensors
• Compatible with L-500 or 600 series direct drive mounts.

Our team at PlaneWave is passionate about designing exceptional telescopes so that users around the world are able to capture the most awe-inspiring astro images possible. From design to manufacture, our goal with the DeltaRho 500 was centered around creating a revolutionary wide-field telescope. The DeltaRho 500 is a Cassegrain Optical Design with the imaging train at the back of the telescope to prevent obstruction of the instrument. This offers a real advantage against prime focus designs, which can severely limit users’ ability to operate with filter wheels or large cameras. Witness the incredible breakthrough in telescope technology as the DeltaRho 500 operates at f/3 and 1537 mm focal length, which is sure to revolutionize your astrophotography.

Last, but not least, the DeltaRho 500 provides a flat field, which ensures stunning clarity from corner-to-corner images without field curvature degradation. The DeltaRho 500 offers the simplicity of single-mirror collimation, stray light control of advanced 3D printed baffles, and structural performance created through finite element analysis (FEA). DeltaRho 500 users can experience pinpoint stars edge-to-edge and a 2-degree field of view when using large 16803/4040 (52mm) size camera sensors. This field of view is over twice as large as our CDK 20! This kind of equipment allows users to experience a whole new level of wide-field imaging that can bring them closer than ever to deep space. The DeltaRho 500 allows nothing to stand in between the user and amazing astro images.

Dovetail counterweight adapter.

The DeltaRho 350 Telescope System from PlaneWave Instruments is crafted for elite astronomers and astrophotographers who demand the best. Created with a passion for excellence, the DeltaRho 350 Telescope System brings groundbreaking features to advanced imaging, offering unmatched versatility across a spectrum of scientific and communicative applications. The DeltaRho 350 Telescope System from PlaneWave Instruments features a 350mm wide-field, f/3 aperture. This premium CDK optical tube combines a DeltaRho 350 with a L-350 direct drive mount.

• Feathertouch 2″ Diameter Dual Speed Focuser with 2.5″ of Travel.
• Great choice for refractors and Ritchey Chretien and CDK telescopes.
• It is precision engineered to deliver smooth operation and no image shift.

The back plate on all of the CDK models has four mounting positions for a finder mounting plate.

• The finder mounting plate attaches to the back plate of the telescope and the quick-release finder bracket attaches to the mounting plate.
• If the telescope is used on a German Equatorial mount it may be convenient to purchase two finder scopes, one for the east and one for the west side of the telescope.
• The finder scope is a Baader 10×60 Varios with mounting rings and L- bracket.