PlaneWave CDK550 Telescope System

PlaneWave CDK550 f/7.77 & f/6.8 Telescope System

The PlaneWave CDK550 is a professional-class telescope system designed for the most demanding research institutions, observatories, and advanced astrophotographers. With a clear aperture of 550mm (20 inches), this system is available in two optimized focal lengths—f/7.77 and f/6.8—allowing users to select the ideal configuration for their scientific or imaging needs.

Built around the corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) optical design, the CDK550 delivers a wide, flat, and coma-free field with minimal off-axis aberrations—perfect for large format detectors and wide-field imaging. Whether used for deep sky imaging, photometric surveys, or spectroscopy, the CDK550 offers unmatched optical precision and mechanical reliability.

The f/7.77 model offers greater image scale and flexibility for high-resolution applications, while the f/6.8 variant provides a faster system ideal for wide-field surveys and time-sensitive imaging.

Key Specifications
Clear Aperture: 550 mm (21.65 in)
Focal Length (f/7.77): 4274 mm
Focal Ratio (f/7.77): f/7.77
Focal Length (f/6.8): 3740 mm
Focal Ratio (f/6.8): f/6.8
Back Focus (from mounting surface): 321 mm
Image Circle: 70 mm
Optical Design: Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK)
Primary Mirror Material: Fused Silica
OTA Construction: Carbon Fiber Truss and Tube

Performance & Applications
• Wide, coma-free and flat field of view optimized for large-format sensors
• Exceptional mechanical stability due to carbon fiber structure and low thermal expansion optics
• Precision performance for scientific research, professional observatories, and advanced astrophotography
• Dual focal length configurations allow flexibility between high-resolution imaging (f/7.77) and wide-field speed (f/6.8)
• Integrated with PlaneWave’s powerful control system via PWI4 software for focus, temperature, and automation management
• Suitable for integration with direct drive mounts such as the PlaneWave L-Series and compatible with Nasmyth or equatorial setups