The EFA (Electronic Focusing Accessory) control box can be mounted to the back plate of any PlaneWave telescope OTA (12.5 through 24 inches). The EFA Kit reads the primary mirror and ambient temperature sensors.The EFA controls the fan systems that are built into each telescope.

A Hand Controller is provided to control an optional Focuser or Rotator when standing at the eyepiece. The EFA kit comes with PlaneWave Interface (PWI4), a software package that controls all EFA functions from a PC. Cables and adapters are provided to attach the EFA kit to a PC. The EFA kit is ASCOM compatible.

• The Hedrick focuser designed by PlaneWave is a heavy duty no-slip focuser capable of handling an imaging payload of up to 20lbs.
• Occupies 3″ of backfocus with the focuser fully racked in, and 4.2″ when fully racked out.
• Focuser travel range of 30mm (30000 microns/1.2″)
• The focus tube runs on 5 bearings and is driven by a leadscrew so there is no chance of slipping.
• Focus may be automated through a computer using PlaneWave’s EFA Kit and PWI3 software.
• The focuser comes with pre-installed motor that can be controlled with the EFA hand controller or PWI3 software.

The IRDK14 from PlaneWave Instruments is a precisely engineered optical system designed for high performance in infrared wavelengths. It is an excellent tool for advanced astronomical research and remote sensing applications, offering superior performance for infrared imaging.

IRDK14’s Key Features

Large Aperture and Optimized Focal Ratio

The IRDK14 features a 356 mm aperture and an f/7.2 focal ratio, enhancing its capacity to gather infrared light effectively. This setup is ideal for detailed infrared observations and long-exposure imaging, providing exceptional light-gathering capabilities.

Specialized Optical Design for Infrared

The Dall-Kirkham optical design of the IRDK14 is optimized for infrared wavelengths. There are no refractive lenses, only reflective fused silica mirrors. The reflective coatings are a protected gold with better than 98% reflectivity from .65 microns (650nm) to 5 microns (5000nm), making it well-suited for infrared astronomy or LIDAR applications. UV-optimized coatings can also be provided, and potential customers are encouraged to contact our technical sales team to discuss UV optimization.

Robust Mechanical Structure

Constructed using carbon fiber, the optical tube of the IRDK14 offers durability and stability with minimal thermal expansion. This design ensures consistent performance under various environmental conditions, making it suitable for intensive scientific applications.

Advanced Thermal Management

The IRDK14 includes cooling fans and a system prepared for Delta-T applications, promoting rapid thermal equilibrium. This feature is critical for minimizing air turbulence within the tube, thus reducing potential image distortion and enhancing overall imaging quality.

Integrated Dew Control

Infrared observations are prone to condensation, but the IRDK14 tackles this with advanced dew prevention technology. Heater pads, controlled via PlaneWave’s software, ensure the optical surfaces stay clear from dew, maintaining consistent and clear imaging performance.

Application-Specific Benefits

Infrared Astronomy

The IRDK14 excels in infrared astronomy, where its significant aperture and infrared-optimized optics allow for precise observation of celestial objects in infrared light. This capability is essential for studying astrophysical phenomena invisible to the naked eye or standard optical wavelengths.

Advanced Research and LIDAR Applications

With its specialized design and infrared optimization, the IRDK14 is a robust platform for advanced scientific research, including LIDAR and other remote sensing applications.

Key Features Overview

The IRDK14 comes with impressive specifications tailored for infrared optimization:

• Gold-coated mirrors optimized for high reflectivity in infrared wavelengths (ultraviolet optimization available)
• 14-inch (356 mm) aperture
• 2563 mm focal length
• f/7.2 focal ratio
• 282mm back focus from mounting surface
• 70mm image circle
• Rock-solid fused silica mirrors with low thermal expansion
• Lightweight and rigid carbon fiber optical tube assembly

Optical Systems

Secondary Mirror

Primary Mirror

IRDK17’s Key Features

Large Aperture and Optimized Focal Ratio

The IRDK17 features a considerable 432 mm aperture and an f/6.8 focal ratio, enhancing its ability to capture infrared light effectively. This configuration is ideal for precise infrared observations and long-exposure imaging, offering superior light-gathering capabilities.

Specialized Optical Design for Infrared

The Dall-Kirkham optical design of the IRDK17 is finely tuned for infrared wavelengths. There are no refractive lenses, only reflective components made from fused silica. The reflective coatings are a protected gold with better than 98% reflectivity from .65 microns (650nm) to 5 microns (5000nm), making it optimal for infrared astronomy or LIDAR applications. UV-optimized coatings can also be provided, enhancing the telescope's versatility—please contact our technical sales team to discuss UV optimization.

Robust Mechanical Structure

Constructed using carbon fiber, the optical tube of the IRDK17 ensures durability and stability with minimal thermal expansion. This feature guarantees consistent performance across various conditions and is suitable for intensive scientific and research applications.

Advanced Thermal Management

The IRDK17 has cooling fans and a system ready for Delta-T applications, promoting rapid thermal equilibrium. This system is essential for minimizing air turbulence within the tube, reducing potential image distortion, and improving overall imaging quality.

Integrated Dew Control

Given that infrared observations are prone to condensation, the IRDK17 incorporates advanced dew-prevention technology. Heater pads, controlled via PlaneWave’s software, ensure the optical surfaces remain clear from dew, maintaining consistent and sharp imaging performance.

Application-Specific Benefits

Infrared Astronomy

The IRDK17 excels in infrared astronomy, where its large aperture and infrared-optimized optics allow for detailed observation of celestial objects in infrared light. This capability is vital for uncovering astrophysical phenomena invisible to the naked eye or conventional optical wavelengths.

Advanced Research and LIDAR Applications

With its specialized design and infrared optimization, the IRDK17 is a robust platform for advanced scientific research, including applications in LIDAR, leveraging its specialized optical capabilities.

Optical Systems

Secondary Mirror

Primary Mirror

IRDK20’s Key Features

Large Aperture and Optimized Focal Ratio

The IRDK20 features a substantial 508 mm aperture and an f/6.8 focal ratio, enhancing its ability to gather infrared light effectively. This setup is ideal for detailed infrared observations and long-exposure imaging, offering excellent light-gathering capabilities.

Specialized Optical Design for Infrared

The Dall-Kirkham optical design of the IRDK20 is optimized for infrared wavelengths. There are no refractive lenses, only reflective fused silica mirrors. The reflective coatings are a protected gold with better than 98% reflectivity from .65 microns (650nm) to 5 microns (5000nm), ideal for infrared astronomy or LIDAR applications. UV-optimized coatings can also be provided, so please contact our technical sales team to discuss UV optimization.

Robust Mechanical Structure

Constructed using carbon fiber, the optical tube of the IRDK20 provides durability and stability with minimal thermal expansion. This design ensures consistent performance across varying environmental conditions, making it suitable for intensive scientific applications.

Advanced Thermal Management

The IRDK20 includes cooling fans and a system prepared for Delta-T applications, promoting rapid thermal equilibrium. This setup is crucial for minimizing air turbulence within the tube, thus reducing potential image distortion and enhancing overall imaging quality.

Integrated Dew Control

Infrared observations can be prone to condensation, but the IRDK20 addresses this with advanced dew prevention technology. Heater pads, controlled via PlaneWave’s software, ensure the optical surfaces remain clear from dew, maintaining consistent and clear imaging performance.

Application-Specific Benefits

Infrared Astronomy

The IRDK20 excels in infrared astronomy, where its large aperture and infrared-optimized optics allow for detailed observation of celestial objects in infrared light. This capability is crucial for studying astrophysical phenomena invisible to the naked eye or standard optical wavelengths.

Advanced Research and LIDAR Applications

With its specialized design and infrared optimization, the IRDK20 is a robust platform for advanced scientific research, including LIDAR applications.

Optical Systems

Secondary Mirror

Primary Mirror

Large Aperture and Optimized Focal Ratio

The IRDK24 features a generous 610 mm aperture paired with an f/6.5 focal ratio, enhancing its ability to capture light effectively. This combination is ideal for detailed infrared observations and long-exposure imaging, providing superb light-gathering capabilities.

Specialized Optical Design for Infrared

The Dall-Kirkham optical design of the IRDK24 is optimized for infrared wavelengths. There are no refractive lenses, only reflective fused silica mirrors. Reflective coatings are a protected gold with better than 98% reflectivity from .65 microns (650nm) to 5 microns (5000nm), ideal for infrared astronomy or LIDAR applications. UV-optimized coatings can also be provided, so please contact our technical sales team to discuss UV optimization.

Robust Mechanical Structure

Constructed using carbon fiber, the optical tube of the IRDK24 offers durability and stability with minimal thermal expansion. This design ensures consistent performance under varying environmental conditions, making it suitable for intensive scientific applications.

Advanced Thermal Management

The IRDK24 incorporates cooling fans and a system ready for Delta-T applications, facilitating rapid thermal equilibrium. This setup is crucial for minimizing air turbulence within the tube, thus reducing potential image distortion and enhancing overall imaging quality.

Integrated Dew Control

Infrared observations can be susceptible to condensation, but the IRDK24 addresses this with sophisticated dew prevention technology. Heater pads, controlled via PlaneWave’s software, ensure the optical surfaces remain clear from dew, thereby maintaining consistent and clear imaging performance.

Application-Specific Benefits

Infrared Astronomy: The IRDK24 is especially effective for infrared astronomy, where its large aperture and infrared-optimized optics allow for detailed observation of celestial objects in infrared light. This capability is essential for studying astrophysical phenomena invisible to the naked eye or standard optical wavelengths.

Advanced Research and LIDAR Applications: With its specialized design and infrared optimization, the IRDK24 is a robust platform for advanced scientific research, including LIDAR.

Optical Systems

Primary Mirror

Secondary Mirror

• The IRF90 is a large capacity Integrated Focuser and Rotator for use with Alt/Az, or equatorially mounted systems.
• Occupies 3.5″ of backfocus with the focuser fully racked in, and 4.7″ when fully racked out.
• The Focuser is capable of lifting 40 lbs (18 kg) with a range of 30mm (30000 microns/1.2″).
• The Rotator has a 90mm aperture with a range of 365 degrees with hard stops to eliminate any chance of cord wrap.
• IRF90 is controlled via PWI4 software for autofocusing and optional field de-rotation (if using an Alt/Az mounted system).

PlaneWave L350 Direct Drive Mount

The L-Series combines versatility, simplicity and affordability by combining all the technology of our Observatory class telescopes into a compact stand-alone mount. In its Alt/Az configuration it is considerably more compact than its equatorial counterpart, allowing a larger telescope to fit in a smaller enclosure. Unlike German Equatorial mounts, there are no meridian flips to deal with, and no large protruding counterweights to create a dangerous hazard in a public observatory. Alt/Az is more intuitive to use and no polar alignment is needed. Besides, it is the way the pros do it!

L-Series Mounts Features:

• Direct-drive motors on each axis for smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope
• Slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second
• High resolution encoders on each axis for precise positioning
• Zero backlash
• Zero periodic error
• PointXP mount modeling software
• Enclosed electronics
• Through the mount cabling

FEATURES:

MOUNT SYSTEM

CONTROL SYSTEM

MOTION CONTROL

SYSTEM PERFORMANCE

Price is ex Store

Check the PlaneWave website for Instructions and Schematics.

• Add to the versatility of your L-350 mount with this external Right Ascension axis balance accessory.
• Balance of the mount is important for optimal direct drive motor performance and with this accessory users have the ability to fine tune the adjustments.
• The accessory includes one 2 lb and one 10 lb weights.

The PlaneWave L500 combines versatility, simplicity and affordability by combining all the technology of our Observatory class telescopes into a compact stand-alone mount. In its Alt/Az configuration it is considerably more compact than its equatorial counterpart, allowing a larger telescope to fit in a smaller enclosure. The mass it takes to make a rigid alt/az mount is substantially less, leading to cost savings. Unlike German Equatorial mounts, there are no meridian flips to deal with, and no large protruding counterweights to create a dangerous hazard in a public observatory. Alt/Az is more intuitive to use and no polar alignment is needed. Besides, it is the way the pros do it!

Planewave L500 Mount Features:

• Direct-drive motors on each axis for smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope
• Slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second
• High resolution encoders on each axis for precise positioning
• Zero backlash
• Zero periodic error
• PointXP mount modeling software
• Enclosed electronics
• Through the mount cabling

FEATURES:

MOUNT SYSTEM

CONTROL SYSTEM

MOTION CONTROL

SYSTEM PERFORMANCE

Check the PlaneWave website for Instructions and Schematics.

State-of-the-Art Direct-Drive Motors

Equipped with PlaneWave's proprietary direct-drive motors on each axis, the L-550 ensures the telescopes' smooth, fast, and whisper-quiet movement. This capability is crucial for swiftly tracking celestial objects and satellites across the sky with minimal vibration and maximum accuracy.

High-Resolution Encoders

With high-resolution encoders on each axis, the L-550 delivers exact positioning, essential for capturing crisp, detailed night sky images. These encoders are vital for scientific applications demanding precise data collection.

Zero Backlash and Periodic Error

The L-550's design eliminates backlash and periodic error, facilitating steady tracking vital for top-notch astrophotography and dependable, long-term observational research.

Flexible Installation Options

The L-550 is available in both Alt/Az and equatorial configurations to meet a variety of observational needs. This versatility makes it suitable for fixed installations in educational observatories and adaptable setups for amateur astronomers.

Through-the-Mount Cabling

The innovative through-the-mount cabling system enhances setup cleanliness and safety, preventing cable snagging and reducing setup time.

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.

Optional Dual Mounting Bracket

Allows for the attachment of additional telescopes or accessories on the mount, enhancing versatility and enabling simultaneous multi-instrument use, ideal for complex observational setups or educational demonstrations.

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.

PointXP Mount Modeling Software

Included with the mount, PointXP software precisely models the mount's tracking behavior, enhancing its accuracy for critical applications. This software is invaluable for projects that require exact positioning and consistent tracking over extended periods.

Application-Specific Advantages

Astrophotography

The L-550's rapid slew speeds and silent operation allow astrophotographers to reposition swiftly and quietly between shots, capturing stunning celestial images without disrupting the observational setting.

Research

Researchers benefit from the L-550's robust construction and precise tracking to conduct detailed celestial observations and night-long monitoring with minimal interruption and consistent data quality.

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

With its ability to swiftly and accurately reposition, the L-550 has ben been used for tracking satellites and space debris. However, our L-series mounts work best for astrophotography and research applications. To exceed the ideal performance requirements for SSA/SDA applications, we created the T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal.

Mount Systems

Control Systems

Motion control

System Performance

The PlaneWave L600 Direct Drive Mount is ideal for the CDK24 and capable of holding up to 136kgs (300 lbs). Slewing at up to 50 degrees per second with pointing accuracy <10 arc seconds with Point XP and tracking accuracy of <.3 arc seconds over 5 minutes. This precision mount is a work of art.

The L-Series combines versatility, simplicity and affordability by combining all the technology of our Observatory class telescopes into a compact stand-alone mount. In its Alt/Az configuration it is considerably more compact than its equatorial counterpart, allowing a larger telescope to fit in a smaller enclosure. Unlike German Equatorial mounts, there are no meridian flips to deal with, and no large protruding counterweights to create a dangerous hazard in a public observatory. Alt/Az is more intuitive to use and no polar alignment is needed. Besides, it is the way the pros do it!

PlaneWave L600 Direct Drive Mount Features:

• Direct-drive motors on each axis for smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope
• Slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second<
• High resolution encoders on each axis for precise positioning
• Zero backlash
• Zero periodic error
• Payload Capacity up to 136kg
• PointXP mount modeling software
• Enclosed electronics
• Weight is 153kg.

FEATURES:

MOUNT SYSTEM

CONTROL SYSTEM

MOTION CONTROL

SYSTEM PERFORMANCE

PlaneWave L600 Direct Drive Schematics

NOTE: This product has a lengthy leadtime for more information email: education@bintel.com.au

• This is an L-shaped bracket that attaches in four different places on the back of any of the CDK models.
• This is used to mount a finderscope or some other accessory.
• Two 1/4-20 screws provided attach the bracket to the backplate of the telescope and two 10-32 threaded holes spaced at 1.450″ can be used to mount accessories too.

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

Secondary Mirro

Primary Mirror

• This adapter presents M54 x 0.75 male threads on the camera side and presents SecureFit on the telescope side.
• Backfocus distance occupied by this adapter is 0.25″.
• Designed for use with ZWO and QHY cameras and filterwheels that accept M54.
• If using with other equipment please check the adapter PDF drawing in the download section below to confirm fitment for your specific application.

We have designed a new 5-wire bus communication box that controls the Series-5 Focuser and Rotator, which includes M12 circular 5-wire threaded connector heads for environmental sealing.

• The Series -5 Controller has been designed for:
  • Operating the Series-5 Focuser and Rotator
  • Powering the fans for temperature control on DeltaRho Astrographs, as well as CDK12.5 to CDK24 telescopes
  • Powering and controlling the telescope’s built-in anti-dew heating pads.
• Includes M12 circular 5-wire threaded connector heads for environmental sealing.
• Controlled via our PlaneWave Interface 4 software with ASCOM support.

• The Series-5 focuser is a large capacity focuser for use with Alt/Az, or equatorially mounted systems.
• The focuser is capable of lifting 40 lbs (18 kg) with a travel range of  0.6-inches (15,200 microns).
• The Series-5 focuser can be stacked with the Series-5 rotator for a complete focusing rotator solution (combined 2.78″ of occupied backfocus).
• Occupies only 1.675” of backfocus.
• 464.4283 encoder counts per micron
• Controlled via PWI4 software for autofocusing and optional field de-rotation (if using an Alt/Az mounted system).
• Requires the Series-5 Controller.
• Compatible with the DeltaRho 350 and RC700 telescopes.

The PlaneWave T-600 Direct Drive Gimbal is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of advanced astrophotography, complex astronomical research, SSA/SDA, and FSOC applications. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, this gimbal provides a robust, precise, versatile observational platform suitable for demanding environments.

Core Features of the T-600 Gimbal

High-Torque Direct-Drive Motors

The T-600 Gimbal has high-torque, double-stacked direct-drive motors, ensuring smooth, fast, and virtually silent operation. This feature is critical for tracking celestial objects with minimal vibration and supreme accuracy, accommodating substantial payloads effectively.

High-Resolution Absolute Encoders

With high-resolution absolute encoders on each axis, it offers incredibly precise pointing and tracking capabilities, crucial for capturing sharp, detailed celestial images and conducting rigorous scientific observations.

Zero Backlash and Periodic Error

The design of the T-600 Gimbal eliminates backlash and periodic error, facilitating consistent and reliable tracking that enhances astrophotography and supports precise applications in research and space surveillance.

Advanced Customization Options

The T-600 includes optional contact gasket seals for full weatherization and supports limitless Az rotation, making it adaptable for specific research observational requirements across various environments.

Rugged and Environment-ready

Designed with rugged environments in mind, the gimbal features electronics enclosed within the mount and weatherproof cable pass-throughs, ensuring durability and reliability in light-to-moderate rain and preventing debris entry.

Application-Specific Advantages

Astrophotography

With its robust load capacity and exceptional slew speeds, it allows astrophotographers to reposition heavy equipment quickly and smoothly, capturing breathtaking images of the cosmos with ease and efficiency.

Research

Researchers will find the gimbal’s precise tracking and advanced software ideal for detailed celestial observations and data collection, particularly in demanding environments where equipment adaptability and operational reliability are paramount.

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

Professionals in SSA/SDA will benefit from the T-600 Gimbal’s high-precision tracking and configurable features, which are perfect for monitoring space debris and tracking satellites, ensuring accurate surveillance and data collection in space domain awareness initiatives.

System Performance

Mount system

Mechanical structure

Motion control

Included items

• Add to the versatility of your L-Series mount with this two-axis adjustable saddle to co-align two optical tubes.
• This saddle accepts Losmandy-D style dovetail plates and secures to the L-Series declination/altitude axis.
• Fits L-350, L-500, and L-600 mounts.