PlaneWave IRDK12.5 F/8 OTA

PlaneWave IRDK12.5 – 12.5-Inch Infrared-Optimized Dall-Kirkham Telescope System

The IRDK12.5 from PlaneWave Instruments is a precision-engineered infrared-optimized observatory-class system tailored for professional astronomers and researchers. Designed specifically for applications requiring sensitivity in infrared wavelengths, the IRDK12.5 is ideal for advanced astronomical research, atmospheric studies, and terrestrial or orbital sensing tasks that demand high contrast and low thermal noise.

Built around a durable carbon fiber optical tube and incorporating low-expansion fused silica mirrors, this system delivers maximum stability across fluctuating environments. The gold-coated optics further enhance reflectivity in the infrared spectrum, ensuring clean, high-resolution data in challenging observational scenarios.

Key Specifications

Optical Design: Infrared-optimized Dall-Kirkham (IRDK)
Clear Aperture: 318mm (12.5 in)
Focal Ratio: f/8
Focal Length: 2541mm
Back Focus: 265mm from mounting surface
Image Circle: 52mm
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 Astronomy & Remote Sensing:
Gold-coated mirrors deliver maximum reflectivity in IR bands, enhancing performance in scientific fields like exoplanet studies, star formation research, and Earth observation via airborne or orbital platforms.

- Thermal Stability for Consistent Imaging:
The fused silica mirror system offers extremely low thermal expansion, allowing the telescope to maintain focus and optical alignment during long observing runs in changing temperatures.

- Compact and Versatile Observatory Integration:
At 12.5 inches in aperture, the IRDK12.5 is compact enough for mobile or remote installations but powerful enough to serve as a primary instrument for specialized IR research missions.

- Wide Compatibility with Infrared Sensors:
The 52mm corrected image circle ensures clean imaging across many modern scientific-grade IR detectors, while the generous back focus provides flexibility for additional instrumentation.

- Rugged Lightweight Construction:
A rigid carbon fiber OTA supports low-vibration, long-duration observations while also simplifying installation into custom mount systems or adaptive optical setups.