PlaneWave CDK700 0.7-Meter CDK Telescope System

The CDK700 is a complete observatory class telescope and direct-drive alt-azimuth mounting system, designed and engineered by PlaneWave. With a 70 mm image circle, the CDK700 is designed to excel at imaging on large format CCD cameras. The optical system utilizes a Nasmyth focus through both altitude bearings allowing your camera or eyepiece to remain at a fixed height while holding heavy instruments without needing to rebalance the optical tube assembly.

Instrumentation can be installed on both sides of the fork mount and easily accessed using the included rotating tertiary mirror system. With direct-drive motors, high resolution encoders, and zero backlash or periodic error, the CDK700 set the standard for commercially produced research telescopes.

CDK700 Features

• Pinpoint stars out to a 70mm image circle
• Ultra-low thermal expansion fused silica optics
• Dual Nasmyth focus, allowing simultaneous mounting of two instruments or easy switching between visual and imaging use
• Direct-drive motors on each axis for smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope
• High resolution encoders on each axis for precise positioning
• Zero backlash
• Zero periodic error
• PointXP mount modeling software
• Field de-rotator / rotational field framing

An alt/az mount is inherently more stable than an equatorial mount since there is no cantilevered mass, nor are there any large protruding counterweights to create a dangerous hazard in a public observatory. An alt/az telescope is also 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. You can image from horizon to horizon continuously if desired. Alt/Az is more intuitive to use and no polar alignment is needed. Besides, it is the way the professionals do it!

Enjoy exceptional performance for astrophotography, research, or visual observing with the CDK700!

• f/6.5 and 4540mm focal length providing pinpoint stars across a 70mm image circle.
• No coma, no off-axis astigmatism, and no field curvature.
• Compact Alt/Az design with dual Nasmyth ports allowing multiple instrumentation payloads to be installed on the telescope.
• Integrated direct drive mount with optical encoders, zero periodic error, zero backlash, and minimal maintenance due to the lack of gears.
• Slew speeds up to 50 degrees/sec for satellite tracking and fast target acquisition.
• Fast 1 day installation and on-sky taking images that same night (weather dependent).