PlaneWave RC700 Telescope System

PlaneWave RC700 – 0.7-Meter Ritchey-Chrétien Observatory Telescope System

A high-performance Alt-Az telescope engineered for elite astronomical research, laser communication, satellite tracking, and advanced astrophotography.

The PlaneWave RC700 telescope system features a 0.7-meter (700mm) Ritchey-Chrétien optical tube combined with a direct-drive Alt-Az mount—designed to deliver high precision, reliability, and configurability. With an optimized central obstruction of less than 30%, this system offers superior image contrast and fiber coupling efficiency. The RC700 supports dual Nasmyth ports, ultra-fast slew speeds, and optional GPS/PTP synchronization—making it ideal for deep-sky imaging, satellite tracking, and laser ranging.

Key Specifications

Optical Design: Ritchey-Chrétien (RC)
Clear Aperture: 700mm (27.6 in)
Focal Ratio: f/12
Focal Length: 8400mm (approximate)
Image Circle: Native configuration optimized for on-axis use (no field flattener)
Central Obstruction: <30%
Focus Position: Dual Nasmyth ports
Backfocus: Extended via field derotator and secondary focusing mechanism
Nasmyth Port Load Capacity: >300 lbs per port

Performance & Control

Mount Type: Direct Drive Alt-Az with space-frame structure
Slew Speed: Up to 50°/sec
Tracking: Zero backlash, zero periodic error
Encoders: On-axis 26-bit absolute encoders for each axis
Field Rotation: Integrated direct drive field derotator
Focusing: Secondary mirror motorized focusing
Tertiary Mirror: PWI4 software-controlled rotating tertiary for port switching
Time Synchronization: Optional GPS/PTP encoder synchronization
Shroud Option: Carbon fiber hard-shroud available
Control Software: PointXP mount modeling & PlaneWave Interface 4 (PWI4)

Optional Configurations

- Horizon Model: f/12 variant with fixed primary mirror optimized for horizon-to-below-horizon pointing

- Coudé Path Option: Supports Coudé beam routing

- Laser Communication Ready: Designed for low-vibration, high-speed pointing tasks

Ideal Applications

Advanced Research:

- Designed for university and defense research programs requiring dual instrumentation and rapid configuration switching

Astrophotography & Visual Use:

- Rotating tertiary and stable Nasmyth platforms enable seamless transitions between imaging and outreach

LEO & Satellite Tracking:

- Ultra-fast slew and high encoder resolution ideal for satellite acquisition and tracking

Free-Space Optics / Laser Ranging:

- High throughput and minimal obstruction design enable excellent coupling efficiency and beam precision