PlaneWave IRDK14 - 14 in f/7.2 IRDK Infrared Optimized Telescope OTA

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Shipped directly from the PlaneWave factory in Adrian, Michigan. $350 Crating Fee and shipping charges to be billed separately.
- Specialized Optical Design for Infrared: This Dall-Kirkham optical design is tailored for infrared wavelengths, ideal for infrared astronomy and environmental LIDAR applications.
- 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: 356 mm aperture, 2563 mm focal length (f/7.2), and 282 mm back-focus from mounting surface.
PlaneWave Instruments 14" f/7.2 IRDK OTA
The PlaneWave IRDK14 f/7.2 Infrared Telescope is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of advanced infrared observation and cutting-edge research. With a generous 14" aperture and optical coatings meticulously optimized for the infrared spectrum, this system offers scientists and astrophotographers an exceptionally stable and high-sensitivity platform for exploring celestial phenomena beyond the visible. The robust carbon-fiber tube assembly ensures minimal thermal drift, while the precision design delivers outstanding performance for applications such as infrared astronomy, remote sensing and even LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating.
Specification Spotlight
- Large Aperture - 14 in (356 mm)
- Focal Length - 2563 mm (101 in)
- Back Focus - 282 mm back focus from mounting surface
- Gold-coated Mirrors - Optimized for high reflectivity in infrared wavelengths
- Percision Optical Performance - Perfectly flat field across the entire 70 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 Dew Control - Keep your mirrors images clear and consistent all night with condensation control
Infrared-Optimized Research Telescope
The (Infared Dall-Kirkham) IRDK series from PlaneWave Instruments deliver sophisticated performance for infrared astronomy and advanced scientific applications, with large apertures, gold-coated mirrors and optics optimized for wavelengths beyond the visible. At the same time, the (Correct Dall-Kirkham) CDK telescope from PlaneWave brings robust versatility to imaging and observational astronomy, offering a 14" aperture, a flat-field CDK design, and reliable performance for astrophotography, research work like stellar photometry and minor-planet tracking, and visual observation of planetary, lunar and deep-sky targets. Together, these systems support serious observatories and research institutions with capability for infrared, optical and even space-domain-awareness applications, while offering the high-quality optics and mechanical stability needed for demanding scientific and imaging missions.
A Closer Look at the 14" IRDK Key Features
Infrared LiDAR Compatibility
This IRDK PlaneWave telescopes’ infrared-optimized optics can be paired with LiDAR systems to accurately collect and focus reflected infrared laser signals, enabling high-resolution distance measurement and atmospheric or topographic mapping.
Large Aperture and Extended Focal Ratio
The IRDK features a 356mm (14") aperture paired with an f/7.2 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 CDK 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 IRDK 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 IRDK 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 and Dew Control
The IRDK combines active cooling with integrated dew prevention, using fans, Delta-T control, and software-managed heating pads to maintain thermal equilibrium, minimize air turbulence, and keep optical surfaces free of condensation for consistent, high-quality imaging.
Specifications
Optical System
-
Aperture: 356 mm (14 in)
-
Focal Length: 2563 mm (101 in)
-
Focal Ratio: f/7.2
-
Central Obstruction: 23.5% by surface area; 48.5% by diameter
-
Back Focus from Mounting Surface: 282 mm (11.09 in)
-
Weight: 48 lb (22 kg)
-
OTA Length: 889 mm (35 in)
-
Optical Design Performance: 3.1 micron RMS at 13 mm off-axis; 6 micron RMS at 35 mm off-axis
-
Upper Cage: Carbon fiber truss
-
Lower Cage: Carbon fiber truss and light shroud
-
Image Circle Size: 52 mm
Lens Group
-
Diameter: 95 mm (3.7 in)
-
Coating: Broadband AR coatings (<0.5% reflected from 400–700 nm)
Secondary Mirror
-
Diameter: 165 mm (6.5 in)
-
Material: Fused silica
-
Shape: Spherical
-
Coating: Protected Gold
Primary Mirror
-
Optical Diameter: 355.6 mm (14 in)
-
Outer Diameter: 468.3 mm (14.5 in)
-
Shape: Prolate Ellipsoid
-
Coating: Protected Gold
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: United States
PlaneWave Instruments 14" f/7.2 IRDK OTA
The PlaneWave IRDK14 f/7.2 Infrared Telescope is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of advanced infrared observation and cutting-edge research. With a generous 14" aperture and optical coatings meticulously optimized for the infrared spectrum, this system offers scientists and astrophotographers an exceptionally stable and high-sensitivity platform for exploring celestial phenomena beyond the visible. The robust carbon-fiber tube assembly ensures minimal thermal drift, while the precision design delivers outstanding performance for applications such as infrared astronomy, remote sensing and even LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating.
Specification Spotlight
- Large Aperture - 14 in (356 mm)
- Focal Length - 2563 mm (101 in)
- Back Focus - 282 mm back focus from mounting surface
- Gold-coated Mirrors - Optimized for high reflectivity in infrared wavelengths
- Percision Optical Performance - Perfectly flat field across the entire 70 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 Dew Control - Keep your mirrors images clear and consistent all night with condensation control
Infrared-Optimized Research Telescope
The (Infared Dall-Kirkham) IRDK series from PlaneWave Instruments deliver sophisticated performance for infrared astronomy and advanced scientific applications, with large apertures, gold-coated mirrors and optics optimized for wavelengths beyond the visible. At the same time, the (Correct Dall-Kirkham) CDK telescope from PlaneWave brings robust versatility to imaging and observational astronomy, offering a 14" aperture, a flat-field CDK design, and reliable performance for astrophotography, research work like stellar photometry and minor-planet tracking, and visual observation of planetary, lunar and deep-sky targets. Together, these systems support serious observatories and research institutions with capability for infrared, optical and even space-domain-awareness applications, while offering the high-quality optics and mechanical stability needed for demanding scientific and imaging missions.
A Closer Look at the 14" IRDK Key Features
Infrared LiDAR Compatibility
This IRDK PlaneWave telescopes’ infrared-optimized optics can be paired with LiDAR systems to accurately collect and focus reflected infrared laser signals, enabling high-resolution distance measurement and atmospheric or topographic mapping.
Large Aperture and Extended Focal Ratio
The IRDK features a 356mm (14") aperture paired with an f/7.2 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 CDK 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 IRDK 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 IRDK 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 and Dew Control
The IRDK combines active cooling with integrated dew prevention, using fans, Delta-T control, and software-managed heating pads to maintain thermal equilibrium, minimize air turbulence, and keep optical surfaces free of condensation for consistent, high-quality imaging.
Specifications
Optical System
-
Aperture: 356 mm (14 in)
-
Focal Length: 2563 mm (101 in)
-
Focal Ratio: f/7.2
-
Central Obstruction: 23.5% by surface area; 48.5% by diameter
-
Back Focus from Mounting Surface: 282 mm (11.09 in)
-
Weight: 48 lb (22 kg)
-
OTA Length: 889 mm (35 in)
-
Optical Design Performance: 3.1 micron RMS at 13 mm off-axis; 6 micron RMS at 35 mm off-axis
-
Upper Cage: Carbon fiber truss
-
Lower Cage: Carbon fiber truss and light shroud
-
Image Circle Size: 52 mm
Lens Group
-
Diameter: 95 mm (3.7 in)
-
Coating: Broadband AR coatings (<0.5% reflected from 400–700 nm)
Secondary Mirror
-
Diameter: 165 mm (6.5 in)
-
Material: Fused silica
-
Shape: Spherical
-
Coating: Protected Gold
Primary Mirror
-
Optical Diameter: 355.6 mm (14 in)
-
Outer Diameter: 468.3 mm (14.5 in)
-
Shape: Prolate Ellipsoid
-
Coating: Protected Gold
| Manufacturer | PlaneWave Instruments |
|---|---|
| Telescope Focal Length | 2501 - 3000m |
- 14" IRDK OTA
- 1x Dew heating elements kit, pads on primary and secondary mirrors; require Delta-T 600195 controller (sold separately)
- 1x OTA Cover
- 1x Wrench Set (5812A35) - Standard hex wrenches (European orders only)
Shipped directly from the PlaneWave factory in Adrian, Michigan. $350 Crating Fee and shipping charges to be billed separately.
- Specialized Optical Design for Infrared: This Dall-Kirkham optical design is tailored for infrared wavelengths, ideal for infrared astronomy and environmental LIDAR applications.
- 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: 356 mm aperture, 2563 mm focal length (f/7.2), and 282 mm back-focus from mounting surface.
PlaneWave Instruments 14" f/7.2 IRDK OTA
The PlaneWave IRDK14 f/7.2 Infrared Telescope is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of advanced infrared observation and cutting-edge research. With a generous 14" aperture and optical coatings meticulously optimized for the infrared spectrum, this system offers scientists and astrophotographers an exceptionally stable and high-sensitivity platform for exploring celestial phenomena beyond the visible. The robust carbon-fiber tube assembly ensures minimal thermal drift, while the precision design delivers outstanding performance for applications such as infrared astronomy, remote sensing and even LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating.
Specification Spotlight
- Large Aperture - 14 in (356 mm)
- Focal Length - 2563 mm (101 in)
- Back Focus - 282 mm back focus from mounting surface
- Gold-coated Mirrors - Optimized for high reflectivity in infrared wavelengths
- Percision Optical Performance - Perfectly flat field across the entire 70 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 Dew Control - Keep your mirrors images clear and consistent all night with condensation control
Infrared-Optimized Research Telescope
The (Infared Dall-Kirkham) IRDK series from PlaneWave Instruments deliver sophisticated performance for infrared astronomy and advanced scientific applications, with large apertures, gold-coated mirrors and optics optimized for wavelengths beyond the visible. At the same time, the (Correct Dall-Kirkham) CDK telescope from PlaneWave brings robust versatility to imaging and observational astronomy, offering a 14" aperture, a flat-field CDK design, and reliable performance for astrophotography, research work like stellar photometry and minor-planet tracking, and visual observation of planetary, lunar and deep-sky targets. Together, these systems support serious observatories and research institutions with capability for infrared, optical and even space-domain-awareness applications, while offering the high-quality optics and mechanical stability needed for demanding scientific and imaging missions.
A Closer Look at the 14" IRDK Key Features
Infrared LiDAR Compatibility
This IRDK PlaneWave telescopes’ infrared-optimized optics can be paired with LiDAR systems to accurately collect and focus reflected infrared laser signals, enabling high-resolution distance measurement and atmospheric or topographic mapping.
Large Aperture and Extended Focal Ratio
The IRDK features a 356mm (14") aperture paired with an f/7.2 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 CDK 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 IRDK 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 IRDK 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 and Dew Control
The IRDK combines active cooling with integrated dew prevention, using fans, Delta-T control, and software-managed heating pads to maintain thermal equilibrium, minimize air turbulence, and keep optical surfaces free of condensation for consistent, high-quality imaging.
Specifications
Optical System
-
Aperture: 356 mm (14 in)
-
Focal Length: 2563 mm (101 in)
-
Focal Ratio: f/7.2
-
Central Obstruction: 23.5% by surface area; 48.5% by diameter
-
Back Focus from Mounting Surface: 282 mm (11.09 in)
-
Weight: 48 lb (22 kg)
-
OTA Length: 889 mm (35 in)
-
Optical Design Performance: 3.1 micron RMS at 13 mm off-axis; 6 micron RMS at 35 mm off-axis
-
Upper Cage: Carbon fiber truss
-
Lower Cage: Carbon fiber truss and light shroud
-
Image Circle Size: 52 mm
Lens Group
-
Diameter: 95 mm (3.7 in)
-
Coating: Broadband AR coatings (<0.5% reflected from 400–700 nm)
Secondary Mirror
-
Diameter: 165 mm (6.5 in)
-
Material: Fused silica
-
Shape: Spherical
-
Coating: Protected Gold
Primary Mirror
-
Optical Diameter: 355.6 mm (14 in)
-
Outer Diameter: 468.3 mm (14.5 in)
-
Shape: Prolate Ellipsoid
-
Coating: Protected Gold
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: United States
| Manufacturer | PlaneWave Instruments |
|---|---|
| Telescope Focal Length | 2501 - 3000m |
- 14" IRDK OTA
- 1x Dew heating elements kit, pads on primary and secondary mirrors; require Delta-T 600195 controller (sold separately)
- 1x OTA Cover
- 1x Wrench Set (5812A35) - Standard hex wrenches (European orders only)

PlaneWave IRDK14 - 14 in f/7.2 IRDK Infrared Optimized Telescope OTA
