PlaneWave CDK12.5 - 12.5 in f/8 CDK Telescope OTA
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Shipped directly from the PlaneWave factory in Adrian, Michigan. $200 Crating Fee and shipping charges to be billed separately.
- Corrected Dall-Kirkham: Optical design with flat field delivers no off-axis coma or astigmatism across a 52 mm image circle, ensuring extremely sharp edge-to-edge images.
- High-quality fused-silica mirrors & carbon fiber structure: mirrors with low thermal expansion plus a rigid, lightweight carbon-fiber tube help maintain optical performance across temperature variations.
- Automated focus & temperature control (EFA integration): Includes an EFA unit for automated focusing, monitoring temperature, and fan control (via PlaneWave’s PWI4 software).
- Robust optical parameters: 318 mm aperture, 2541 mm focal length (f/8), 265 mm back-focus from mounting surface, and image quality tolerances of ~2.8 microns RMS on-axis.
PlaneWave Instruments 12.5 in f/8 CDK OTA with EFA
The PlaneWave CDK12 blends precision engineering with advanced optical innovation, built for both astrophotographers and research astronomers. Its Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) optics deliver sharp, flat, distortion-free images across a wide field, ideal for deep-sky imaging and scientific observation. With a fast f/8 focal ratio, the CDK12 captures bright, detailed images quickly, while its sturdy construction ensures stability and reliability under all conditions. Experience professional-grade performance for imaging, research, or exploring the night sky. Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating.
Specification Spotlight
- Large Aperture - 12.5 in (318 mm)
- Focal Ratio: f/8
- Back Focus - 265 mm back focus from mounting surface
- Percision Optical Performance - Perfectly flat field across the entire 52 mm image circle
- Edge-to-Edge Clarity - No off-axis coma or astigmatism
- Thermally Stable Fused Silica Mirrors - Rock-solid fused silica mirrors with low thermal expansion
- Carbon Fiber Construction - Lightweight and rigid carbon fiber optical tube assembly
- Integrated Electronic Focus Accessory (EFA) - EFA box* included for automated focusing and to monitor temperature and control fans via PWI4 Software (*Hand control not included).
Application-Specific Benefits
The CDK12.5 from PlaneWave Instruments delivers exceptional performance across a wide range of applications, making it a versatile choice for both imaging and observational astronomy. Astrophotographers will appreciate its precise optical system and stable performance, creating stunning, high-detail images. Academic institutions and observatories can rely on the CDK12.5 for research purposes, including stellar photometry, minor planet tracking, and other detailed astronomical studies. Its large aperture and high-quality optics also make it ideal for visual observation, providing vibrant, clear views of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects that enhance star parties and serious visual astronomy. The CDK12.5 also supports Space Situational Awareness and Space Domain Awareness efforts, offering the detailed observations necessary to track satellites and monitor space debris, contributing valuable data for space traffic management and safety initiatives!
A Closer Look at the CDK12.5 in Key Features:
Large Aperture and Extended Focal Ratio
The CDK12.5 features a 318 mm (12.5 in) aperture paired with an f/8 focal ratio. This combination provides superb depth of field and excellent resolution, making it highly effective for detailed lunar, planetary, and deep-sky imaging.
Advanced Optical Design
The state-of-the-art Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical system offers outstanding image clarity. This design eliminates off-axis coma and astigmatism and achieves a perfectly flat field, ensuring images are consistently sharp and detailed across the entire field with minimal post-processing adjustments
Robust Mechanical Structure
Built with a carbon fiber optical tube, the CDK12.5 is lightweight and highly durable. Its design accounts for minimal thermal expansion, which ensures stable focus across a range of temperatures which is ideal for extended observing sessions in diverse environmental conditions.
High-Performance Mirrors and Coatings
Featuring fused silica mirrors, the CDK12.5 maintains precise optical alignment and surface accuracy under temperature shifts. The superior coatings enhance light transmission and reduce stray light, optimizing the telescope’s performance for demanding observational tasks.
Thermal Management
The CDK12.5 includes cooling fans and a system ready for Delta-T control to reach thermal equilibrium rapidly. This setup minimizes air turbulence inside the tube, reducing image distortion and maintaining consistent imaging quality.
Integrated Dew Control
This telescope integrates sophisticated dew prevention technology with heating pads managed through PlaneWave’s software. This system ensures that optical surfaces remain clear from condensation under varying humidity levels, maintaining clarity and performance during observational sessions.
Specifications
Optical Systems
-
Aperture: 318 mm (12.5 in)
-
Focal Length: 2541 mm (100 in)
-
Focal Ratio: f/8
-
Central Obstruction: 42% of the primary mirror diameter
-
Back Focus from Mounting Surface: 265 mm (10.45 in)
-
Back Focus from Racked in Focuser: 183 mm (7.2 in)
-
Weight: 42 lb (19 kg)
-
OTA Length: 787 mm (31 in)
-
Optical Design Performance: 2.8-micron RMS on-axis, 3.8-micron RMS at 11 mm off-axis, 8.0-micron RMS at 21 mm off-axis
-
Upper Cage: Carbon fiber
-
Image Circle Size: 52 mm
Lens Group
-
Diameter: 70 mm (2.76 in)
-
Coating: Broadband AR coatings (<0.5% reflected from 400–700 nm)
Secondary Mirror
-
Diameter: 118 mm (4.65 in)
-
Material: Fused silica (quartz)
-
Shape: Spherical
-
Coating: Enhanced aluminum – 96%
Primary Mirror
-
Optical Diameter: 318 mm (12.5 in)
-
Outer Diameter: 330 mm (13 in)
-
Shape: Prolate Ellipsoid
-
Material: Fused silica (quartz)
-
Coating: Enhanced aluminum – 96%
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: United States
PlaneWave Instruments 12.5 in f/8 CDK OTA with EFA
The PlaneWave CDK12 blends precision engineering with advanced optical innovation, built for both astrophotographers and research astronomers. Its Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) optics deliver sharp, flat, distortion-free images across a wide field, ideal for deep-sky imaging and scientific observation. With a fast f/8 focal ratio, the CDK12 captures bright, detailed images quickly, while its sturdy construction ensures stability and reliability under all conditions. Experience professional-grade performance for imaging, research, or exploring the night sky. Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating.
Specification Spotlight
- Large Aperture - 12.5 in (318 mm)
- Focal Ratio: f/8
- Back Focus - 265 mm back focus from mounting surface
- Percision Optical Performance - Perfectly flat field across the entire 52 mm image circle
- Edge-to-Edge Clarity - No off-axis coma or astigmatism
- Thermally Stable Fused Silica Mirrors - Rock-solid fused silica mirrors with low thermal expansion
- Carbon Fiber Construction - Lightweight and rigid carbon fiber optical tube assembly
- Integrated Electronic Focus Accessory (EFA) - EFA box* included for automated focusing and to monitor temperature and control fans via PWI4 Software (*Hand control not included).
Application-Specific Benefits
The CDK12.5 from PlaneWave Instruments delivers exceptional performance across a wide range of applications, making it a versatile choice for both imaging and observational astronomy. Astrophotographers will appreciate its precise optical system and stable performance, creating stunning, high-detail images. Academic institutions and observatories can rely on the CDK12.5 for research purposes, including stellar photometry, minor planet tracking, and other detailed astronomical studies. Its large aperture and high-quality optics also make it ideal for visual observation, providing vibrant, clear views of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects that enhance star parties and serious visual astronomy. The CDK12.5 also supports Space Situational Awareness and Space Domain Awareness efforts, offering the detailed observations necessary to track satellites and monitor space debris, contributing valuable data for space traffic management and safety initiatives!
A Closer Look at the CDK12.5 in Key Features:
Large Aperture and Extended Focal Ratio
The CDK12.5 features a 318 mm (12.5 in) aperture paired with an f/8 focal ratio. This combination provides superb depth of field and excellent resolution, making it highly effective for detailed lunar, planetary, and deep-sky imaging.
Advanced Optical Design
The state-of-the-art Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical system offers outstanding image clarity. This design eliminates off-axis coma and astigmatism and achieves a perfectly flat field, ensuring images are consistently sharp and detailed across the entire field with minimal post-processing adjustments
Robust Mechanical Structure
Built with a carbon fiber optical tube, the CDK12.5 is lightweight and highly durable. Its design accounts for minimal thermal expansion, which ensures stable focus across a range of temperatures which is ideal for extended observing sessions in diverse environmental conditions.
High-Performance Mirrors and Coatings
Featuring fused silica mirrors, the CDK12.5 maintains precise optical alignment and surface accuracy under temperature shifts. The superior coatings enhance light transmission and reduce stray light, optimizing the telescope’s performance for demanding observational tasks.
Thermal Management
The CDK12.5 includes cooling fans and a system ready for Delta-T control to reach thermal equilibrium rapidly. This setup minimizes air turbulence inside the tube, reducing image distortion and maintaining consistent imaging quality.
Integrated Dew Control
This telescope integrates sophisticated dew prevention technology with heating pads managed through PlaneWave’s software. This system ensures that optical surfaces remain clear from condensation under varying humidity levels, maintaining clarity and performance during observational sessions.
Specifications
Optical Systems
-
Aperture: 318 mm (12.5 in)
-
Focal Length: 2541 mm (100 in)
-
Focal Ratio: f/8
-
Central Obstruction: 42% of the primary mirror diameter
-
Back Focus from Mounting Surface: 265 mm (10.45 in)
-
Back Focus from Racked in Focuser: 183 mm (7.2 in)
-
Weight: 42 lb (19 kg)
-
OTA Length: 787 mm (31 in)
-
Optical Design Performance: 2.8-micron RMS on-axis, 3.8-micron RMS at 11 mm off-axis, 8.0-micron RMS at 21 mm off-axis
-
Upper Cage: Carbon fiber
-
Image Circle Size: 52 mm
Lens Group
-
Diameter: 70 mm (2.76 in)
-
Coating: Broadband AR coatings (<0.5% reflected from 400–700 nm)
Secondary Mirror
-
Diameter: 118 mm (4.65 in)
-
Material: Fused silica (quartz)
-
Shape: Spherical
-
Coating: Enhanced aluminum – 96%
Primary Mirror
-
Optical Diameter: 318 mm (12.5 in)
-
Outer Diameter: 330 mm (13 in)
-
Shape: Prolate Ellipsoid
-
Material: Fused silica (quartz)
-
Coating: Enhanced aluminum – 96%
| Manufacturer | PlaneWave Instruments |
|---|---|
| Telescope Focal Length | 2501 - 3000m |
- 12.5 in CDK OTA
- 1x EFA box monitor CDK fans. Hand Control sold separately
- 1x Dew heating elements kit, pads on primary and secondary mirrors; require Delta-T 600195 controller (sold separately)
- 1x OTA Cover
- 1x Fan power connector that enables connection to 12VDC power if not using EFA kit; 2.1 mm barrel, center positive (not included for EU orders)
- 1x Wrench Set (5812A35) - Standard hex wrenches (European orders only)
Shipped directly from the PlaneWave factory in Adrian, Michigan. $200 Crating Fee and shipping charges to be billed separately.
- Corrected Dall-Kirkham: Optical design with flat field delivers no off-axis coma or astigmatism across a 52 mm image circle, ensuring extremely sharp edge-to-edge images.
- High-quality fused-silica mirrors & carbon fiber structure: mirrors with low thermal expansion plus a rigid, lightweight carbon-fiber tube help maintain optical performance across temperature variations.
- Automated focus & temperature control (EFA integration): Includes an EFA unit for automated focusing, monitoring temperature, and fan control (via PlaneWave’s PWI4 software).
- Robust optical parameters: 318 mm aperture, 2541 mm focal length (f/8), 265 mm back-focus from mounting surface, and image quality tolerances of ~2.8 microns RMS on-axis.
PlaneWave Instruments 12.5 in f/8 CDK OTA with EFA
The PlaneWave CDK12 blends precision engineering with advanced optical innovation, built for both astrophotographers and research astronomers. Its Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) optics deliver sharp, flat, distortion-free images across a wide field, ideal for deep-sky imaging and scientific observation. With a fast f/8 focal ratio, the CDK12 captures bright, detailed images quickly, while its sturdy construction ensures stability and reliability under all conditions. Experience professional-grade performance for imaging, research, or exploring the night sky. Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating.
Specification Spotlight
- Large Aperture - 12.5 in (318 mm)
- Focal Ratio: f/8
- Back Focus - 265 mm back focus from mounting surface
- Percision Optical Performance - Perfectly flat field across the entire 52 mm image circle
- Edge-to-Edge Clarity - No off-axis coma or astigmatism
- Thermally Stable Fused Silica Mirrors - Rock-solid fused silica mirrors with low thermal expansion
- Carbon Fiber Construction - Lightweight and rigid carbon fiber optical tube assembly
- Integrated Electronic Focus Accessory (EFA) - EFA box* included for automated focusing and to monitor temperature and control fans via PWI4 Software (*Hand control not included).
Application-Specific Benefits
The CDK12.5 from PlaneWave Instruments delivers exceptional performance across a wide range of applications, making it a versatile choice for both imaging and observational astronomy. Astrophotographers will appreciate its precise optical system and stable performance, creating stunning, high-detail images. Academic institutions and observatories can rely on the CDK12.5 for research purposes, including stellar photometry, minor planet tracking, and other detailed astronomical studies. Its large aperture and high-quality optics also make it ideal for visual observation, providing vibrant, clear views of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects that enhance star parties and serious visual astronomy. The CDK12.5 also supports Space Situational Awareness and Space Domain Awareness efforts, offering the detailed observations necessary to track satellites and monitor space debris, contributing valuable data for space traffic management and safety initiatives!
A Closer Look at the CDK12.5 in Key Features:
Large Aperture and Extended Focal Ratio
The CDK12.5 features a 318 mm (12.5 in) aperture paired with an f/8 focal ratio. This combination provides superb depth of field and excellent resolution, making it highly effective for detailed lunar, planetary, and deep-sky imaging.
Advanced Optical Design
The state-of-the-art Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical system offers outstanding image clarity. This design eliminates off-axis coma and astigmatism and achieves a perfectly flat field, ensuring images are consistently sharp and detailed across the entire field with minimal post-processing adjustments
Robust Mechanical Structure
Built with a carbon fiber optical tube, the CDK12.5 is lightweight and highly durable. Its design accounts for minimal thermal expansion, which ensures stable focus across a range of temperatures which is ideal for extended observing sessions in diverse environmental conditions.
High-Performance Mirrors and Coatings
Featuring fused silica mirrors, the CDK12.5 maintains precise optical alignment and surface accuracy under temperature shifts. The superior coatings enhance light transmission and reduce stray light, optimizing the telescope’s performance for demanding observational tasks.
Thermal Management
The CDK12.5 includes cooling fans and a system ready for Delta-T control to reach thermal equilibrium rapidly. This setup minimizes air turbulence inside the tube, reducing image distortion and maintaining consistent imaging quality.
Integrated Dew Control
This telescope integrates sophisticated dew prevention technology with heating pads managed through PlaneWave’s software. This system ensures that optical surfaces remain clear from condensation under varying humidity levels, maintaining clarity and performance during observational sessions.
Specifications
Optical Systems
-
Aperture: 318 mm (12.5 in)
-
Focal Length: 2541 mm (100 in)
-
Focal Ratio: f/8
-
Central Obstruction: 42% of the primary mirror diameter
-
Back Focus from Mounting Surface: 265 mm (10.45 in)
-
Back Focus from Racked in Focuser: 183 mm (7.2 in)
-
Weight: 42 lb (19 kg)
-
OTA Length: 787 mm (31 in)
-
Optical Design Performance: 2.8-micron RMS on-axis, 3.8-micron RMS at 11 mm off-axis, 8.0-micron RMS at 21 mm off-axis
-
Upper Cage: Carbon fiber
-
Image Circle Size: 52 mm
Lens Group
-
Diameter: 70 mm (2.76 in)
-
Coating: Broadband AR coatings (<0.5% reflected from 400–700 nm)
Secondary Mirror
-
Diameter: 118 mm (4.65 in)
-
Material: Fused silica (quartz)
-
Shape: Spherical
-
Coating: Enhanced aluminum – 96%
Primary Mirror
-
Optical Diameter: 318 mm (12.5 in)
-
Outer Diameter: 330 mm (13 in)
-
Shape: Prolate Ellipsoid
-
Material: Fused silica (quartz)
-
Coating: Enhanced aluminum – 96%
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: United States
| Manufacturer | PlaneWave Instruments |
|---|---|
| Telescope Focal Length | 2501 - 3000m |
- 12.5 in CDK OTA
- 1x EFA box monitor CDK fans. Hand Control sold separately
- 1x Dew heating elements kit, pads on primary and secondary mirrors; require Delta-T 600195 controller (sold separately)
- 1x OTA Cover
- 1x Fan power connector that enables connection to 12VDC power if not using EFA kit; 2.1 mm barrel, center positive (not included for EU orders)
- 1x Wrench Set (5812A35) - Standard hex wrenches (European orders only)
PlaneWave CDK12.5 - 12.5 in f/8 CDK Telescope OTA