PlaneWave IRDK14 F/7.2 OTA

PlaneWave IRDK14 – 14-Inch Infrared-Optimized Dall-Kirkham Telescope System

Engineered for advanced performance in the infrared spectrum, the IRDK14 from PlaneWave Instruments is a compact yet powerful optical system tailored for professional astronomical research and remote sensing. Built with fused silica optics and gold-coated mirrors, the IRDK14 ensures maximum reflectivity and thermal stability in non-visible wavelengths, delivering excellent image contrast and clarity in infrared applications.

The system features a rigid carbon fiber optical tube and a back focus position that accommodates complex instrument trains, making it highly adaptable for observatory integration, science missions, or airborne platforms where infrared precision is key.

Key Specifications

Optical Design: Infrared-optimized Dall-Kirkham (IRDK)
Clear Aperture: 356mm (14 in)
Focal Ratio: f/7.2
Focal Length: 2563mm
Back Focus: 282mm from mounting surface
Image Circle: 70mm
Mirror Coating: Gold (optimized for IR; UV coating optional)
Mirror Material: Fused silica – low thermal expansion
OTA Material: Carbon fiber – lightweight and rigid

Performance & Applications

- Optimized for Infrared Wavelengths:
Gold-coated mirrors provide peak reflectivity in IR bands, making the IRDK14 ideal for capturing data in scientific studies that focus beyond the visible spectrum.

- Thermal Stability in Harsh Environments:
The fused silica primary and secondary mirrors exhibit minimal thermal expansion, maintaining optical precision in fluctuating environmental conditions.

- Large, Corrected Image Circle:
A 70mm flat, coma-free image circle supports large-format IR detectors, ensuring full-frame sensor coverage without optical distortion.

- Lightweight & Portable Observatory-Class Instrument:
The carbon fiber construction ensures structural rigidity while keeping the weight low for mobile observatory platforms or limited-mass installations.

- Research-Ready Design:
With generous back focus and precision alignment, the IRDK14 easily supports filter wheels, spectrographs, or thermal imaging devices commonly used in academic and governmental research.