PlaneWave IRDK17 F/6.8 OTA

PlaneWave IRDK17 – 17-Inch Infrared-Optimized Dall-Kirkham Telescope System

The IRDK17 from PlaneWave Instruments is an engineered optical system tailored for exceptional performance in the infrared spectrum. Designed to support advanced research, remote sensing, and long-range communications, this observatory-class instrument delivers optimal imaging results in non-visible wavelengths.

Its gold-coated mirrors are precisely optimized for high reflectivity in the IR range, ensuring maximum throughput for specialized instrumentation. Combined with a fused silica optical system and lightweight carbon fiber tube assembly, the IRDK17 offers superb thermal stability and mechanical rigidity, making it an ideal choice for infrared astronomy and scientific missions that require consistent, high-contrast imaging.

Key Specifications

Optical Design: Infrared-optimized Dall-Kirkham (IRDK)
Clear Aperture: 432mm (17 in)
Focal Ratio: f/6.8
Focal Length: 2939mm
Back Focus: 262.33mm 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

- Infrared Imaging Excellence:
Gold-coated mirrors provide superior reflectivity in infrared wavelengths, enabling efficient photon capture for IR detectors and specialized instrumentation.

- Research-Grade Optical Clarity:
The IRDK optical system ensures a flat, coma-free, and distortion-free field across the 70mm image circle, ideal for demanding scientific applications and precision data acquisition.

- Thermal Stability for Harsh Conditions:
The combination of low-expansion fused silica optics and rigid carbon fiber construction minimizes focus shift and mechanical flexure, even under fluctuating environmental temperatures.

- Versatile Scientific Utility:
Suitable for infrared astronomy, adaptive optics systems, remote sensing, and free-space optical communication projects requiring high image fidelity and precise tracking.