PlaneWave IRDK20 F/6.8 OTA

PlaneWave IRDK20 – 20-Inch Infrared-Optimized Dall-Kirkham Telescope System

The IRDK20 from PlaneWave Instruments is a finely tuned infrared-optimized telescope, designed for advanced research and imaging applications where thermal stability and high reflectivity in non-visible wavelengths are essential. Featuring gold-coated fused silica mirrors and a precision-corrected Dall-Kirkham optical design, the IRDK20 delivers exceptional image fidelity in the infrared spectrum.

With a 20-inch aperture and a fully corrected optical path, this system is ideal for institutions conducting space science, atmospheric sensing, and remote infrared imaging. The robust carbon fiber tube ensures minimal thermal expansion, making the IRDK20 a reliable platform for long-duration or thermally sensitive observations.

Key Specifications

Optical Design: Infrared-optimized Dall-Kirkham (IRDK)
Clear Aperture: 508mm (20 in)
Focal Ratio: f/6.8
Focal Length: 3454mm
Back Focus: 224mm 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 Research & Imaging:
Gold-coated mirrors ensure high reflectivity across the infrared spectrum, enabling precise data collection for space science, environmental monitoring, and defense applications.

- Thermal & Structural Stability:
Fused silica mirrors and carbon fiber construction significantly reduce thermal expansion, preserving optical alignment and image focus in fluctuating temperatures.

- Wide IR Sensor Compatibility:
52mm image circle supports large-format IR detectors, ensuring edge-to-edge sharpness and high SNR performance in long-exposure or narrowband IR imaging.

- Remote Observatory Integration:
The lightweight, robust OTA design is ideal for remote deployments and integration into professional-grade automated observatories or satellite communication systems.