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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
| Aperture | 508 mm (20") |
| Focal Length | 3454mm (136") |
| Focal Ratio | f/6.8 |
| Central Obstruction | 39% of the Primary Mirror Diameter |
| Back Focus From Mounting Surface | 8.81 in (224 mm) |
| Weight | 63.5kg (140 lbs) |
| OTA Length | 1194mm (47") |
| Upper Cage | Carbon Fiber Truss |
| Lower Cage | Carbon Fiber Truss and light shroud |
Secondary Mirror
| Diameter | 191mm (7.5") |
| Material | Fused Silica (Quartz) |
| Shape | Spherical |
| Coating | Protected Gold |
Primary Mirror
| Optical Diameter | 508mm (20") |
| Outer Diameter | 521mm (20.5") |
| Shape | Prolate Ellipsoid |
| Material | Fused Silica (quartz) |
| Coating | Protected Gold |
| 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 |
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