The CDK20 is an innovative solution for unsurpassed astroimaging quality at an affordable price. The CDK telescope design provides excellent imaging with large format CCD cameras while remaining superb for visual use. The CDK design far exceeds the off-axis performance of most commercial telescope designs including the Ritchey-Chrétien design.

This no-compromise design is unique in making the optical alignment forgiving and collimation very easy. This guarantees the user the best possible performance from the telescope. The end result at the image plane of the CDK design is no off-axis coma, no off-axis astigmatism, perfectly flat field (no off-axis defocus). The CDK design will give you pinpoint stars from the center to the corner of the field of view. 

Open truss tube design with carbon fiber frame minimizes thermal expansion which causes focus shift with changes in temperature. Carbon fiber truss design also promotes quick thermal cooling and provides a rigid, lightweight structure.

Planewave uses digital 3D printing technology to produce lightweight baffle tubes. 3D printers add successive layers of material to construct a baffle system with precision positioned internal stray light baffles to minimize vignetting and maximize image contrast.

Allows for the difference in thermal expansion between carbon fiber and aluminium. The expansion joint allows the aluminum dovetail to expand and contract without stressing the carbon fiber lower truss.

• Load capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg)
• 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
• Through the mount cabling
• Alt/Az, or equatorial installation orientation

The Planewave L550 Mount is characterized by a robust load capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg), demonstrating its strength and versatility to support substantial telescopic equipment. Its direct-drive motors on each axis ensure a seamless, rapid, and nearly silent movement of the telescope, delivering a superior observational experience.

With impressive slew speeds of up to 50 degrees per second, the L550 enables swift and efficient navigation across the celestial landscape. High-resolution encoders on each axis contribute to precise positioning, allowing astronomers to accurately track and observe celestial objects.

The L550 excels in providing a smooth and precise user experience with zero backlash, eliminating any play or slack in movement, and zero periodic error, ensuring consistent and accurate tracking over extended periods. The PointXP mount modeling software further enhances performance by optimizing the mount's capabilities.

The mount's electronics are enclosed, providing protection against environmental factors and ensuring long-term durability. Through-the-mount cabling simplifies setup, enhancing the mount's aesthetics while reducing the risk of cable entanglement.

Versatility is a key feature of the Planewave L550 Mount, as it accommodates both Alt/Az and equatorial installation orientations. This flexibility makes the L550 an ideal choice for astronomers engaged in various observation and imaging applications, delivering reliable and high-performance capabilities for exploring the vast wonders of the universe.

Direct drive motors and on axes encoders eliminate the need for gears. Backlash and periodic error are thereby eliminated as well. With high resolution encoders providing feedback for the drive motors the mount system will track without periodic error or backlash. The L-550 also has the ability to counteract wind gusts with precise servo feedback.  

Capable of moving at speeds up to 50° per second, the L 550 mount can easily track fast moving objects like satellites and target acquisition times are greatly minimized.