The PlaneWave Instruments CDK500 is a 20 inch (0.51 m) f/6.8 Corrected Dall-Kirkham Astrograph telescope. The CDK500 has a dual carbon-fiber truss design, with 3 cooling fans ejecting air from the back of the telescope. The CDK500 covers a 52 mm field of view without any field curvature, off-axis coma, or astigmatism. The instrument weight is 140 lbs (64 kg) and comes standard with a back plate retaining ring ready to accept the focuser of your choice.
All CDK500 telescopes come with Fused Silica primary and secondary mirrors.
The L-Series combines versatility, simplicity and affordability by combining all the technology of our Observatory class telescopes into a compact stand-alone mount. In its Alt/Az configuration it is considerably more compact than its equatorial counterpart, allowing a larger telescope to fit in a smaller enclosure. The mass it takes to make a rigid alt/az mount is substantially less, leading to cost savings. Unlike German Equatorial mounts, there are no meridian flips to deal with, and no large protruding counterweights to create a dangerous hazard in a public observatory. Alt/Az is more intuitive to use and no polar alignment is needed. Besides, it is the way the pros do it!
L-Series Mount Features:
- For time frames or questions, please contact us at 800-483-6287.
- Direct-drive motors on each axis for smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope
- Slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second
- High-resolution encoders on each axis for precise positioning
- Zero backlash
- Zero periodic error
- PointXP mount modeling software
- Enclosed electronics
The L-Series mount combines versatility, simplicity, and affordability by combining all the technology of our Observatory class telescopes into a compact stand-alone mount. In its Alt/Az configuration, it is considerably more compact than its German equatorial counterpart, allowing a larger telescope to fit in a smaller enclosure. Unlike German Equatorial mounts, there are no meridian flips to deal with, and no large protruding counterweights to create a dangerous hazard in a public observatory. Alt/Az is more intuitive to use and no polar alignment is needed!
Direct Drive Motors and Encoders
Direct Drive motors and on-axis encoders eliminate the need for gears, thereby eliminating backlash and periodic error. With high-resolution encoders providing the feedback for the direct drive motors, not only will the telescope track without periodic error and backlash, but the mount will also counter wind gusts with precise servo feedback.
Incredible Slew Speed
The direct-drive motors can move the telescope at speeds up to 50 degrees per second for tracking satellites or just to minimize target acquisition time.
Dual Mounting Bracket
PlaneWave style mounting bracket to hold CDK17/20 onto inside of fork arm with the additional option of mounting a scope on the outside of the fork arm. Optional dovetail clamp required.
Azimuth Dovetail Balance System
For precise center of gravity balance whether in Alt-Az or Equatorial configuration.
Interior Mount Cabling
Access panels in the fork arm and azimuth axis allow for camera equipment cabling through the inside of the mount.
Proven CDK700/PW1000 Technology
The L-Series uses the same proven technology as the CDK700 and 1-Meter PW1000 which are being used in Universities around the world.
