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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
| Aperture | 610 mm (24") |
| Focal Length | 3974 mm (156") |
| Focal Ratio | f/6.5 |
| Central Obstruction | 47% of the primary mirror diameter |
| Back Focus From Mounting Surface | 364.46 mm (14.349") |
| Weight | 240 lbs (108.9 kg) |
| OTA Length | 1422 mm (56") |
| Optical Design Performance | 2.4-micron RMS on-axis, 4.0-micron RMS at 26 mm off-axis, 4.8-micron at 35 mm off-axis |
| Upper Cage | Carbon fiber truss |
| Lower Cage | Carbon fiber truss with aluminum light shroud |
Primary Mirror
| Optical Diameter | 610 mm (24") |
| Outer Diameter | 622 mm (24.5") |
| Shape | Prolate Ellipsoid |
| Coating | Protected Gold |
Secondary Mirror
| Diameter | 280 mm (11") |
| Material | Fused silica (quartz) |
| Shape | Spherical |
| Coating | Protected Gold |
| Included Items | CDK24 Focus Spacer (240343-1) - This 5.539″ long spacer is installed between the backplate and the focuser to take up some of the CDK24’s extra backfocus and reduce the torque placed on the focuser mechanism. This spacer is sized such that the backfocus distance behind the focuser is 8.8″. |
| Heating Elements for Dew Prevention - The heating pads on the primary and secondary mirror require the 600195 Delta-T controller sold separately | |
| Primary Mirror Cover - To protect the primary mirror | |
| Flashdrive - Contains software and instructions for collimation and spacing the primary to secondary mirror |
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