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PlaneWave Telescopes

PlaneWave Instruments telescopes are engineered for exceptional optical performance and imaging quality, making them a top choice for advanced astrophotographers, universities, and research observatories. Precision-crafted with premium optics and robust mechanical design, PlaneWave telescopes deliver flat, coma-free fields and sharp, well-corrected images across large sensors. Their Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) series delivers high contrast and minimal aberrations, supporting long-exposure deep-sky imaging and demanding scientific applications. Built for reliability and repeatable performance, these telescopes excel in both remote and permanent observatory installations, enabling users to capture stunning nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters with clarity and consistency.

PlaneWave Mounts

PlaneWave Instruments direct drive mounts offer superior support and performance for astrophotography by eliminating gear trains and mechanical backlash. High-resolution encoders and direct motor coupling provide ultra-smooth tracking, enabling long exposures with pinpoint stars while supporting large telescopes, imaging trains, and off-axis guiding systems.

PlaneWave Accessories

Planewave produces a wide range of adapters and spacers for their telescopes and mounts to ensure that your system has the appropriate support and backfocus.  Reach out to us at [email protected] or call us at 818.347.2270 if you have any questions about what adapters you might need for your specific system.  

About Planewave Instruments

PlaneWave Instruments designs and manufactures high-performance astronomical equipment for serious astrophotographers, academic programs, and professional observatories. Known for precision engineering and optical excellence, PlaneWave systems are built to deliver consistent, repeatable results in demanding imaging and research environments.

Astrophotographers rely on PlaneWave’s Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) telescopes for their wide, flat, coma-free fields that support large-format sensors and high-resolution deep-sky imaging. These optics are optimized for sharp stars across the entire image frame, making them well suited for long-exposure astrophotography, remote imaging setups, and permanent observatory installations.

Educational institutions choose PlaneWave telescopes and direct-drive mounts for their reliability, ease of operation, and integration with modern observatory software. Systems such as the CDK350, CDK500, and PlaneWave’s L-Series mounts provide accurate tracking and fast target acquisition, allowing students and researchers to focus on data collection rather than system maintenance. These platforms are widely used in university observatories, STEM programs, and public outreach facilities.

Commercial and research observatories depend on PlaneWave for scalable observatory solutions that support scientific imaging, photometry, and time-domain astronomy. With USA-built optics, precision mechanics, and direct-drive technology that eliminates backlash and wear, PlaneWave systems are designed for continuous operation and long-term performance.

From advanced amateur astrophotography to institutional research and commercial observatory projects, PlaneWave Instruments delivers professional-grade telescopes and mounts trusted by the astronomy community worldwide.

FAQ

Q: What types of telescopes does PlaneWave Instruments manufacture?
A: PlaneWave Instruments designs and manufactures professional-grade telescopes, most notably their Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) series. These telescopes are engineered for high-resolution imaging and scientific observation, offering wide, flat, coma-free fields suitable for modern large-format sensors.

Q: Who are PlaneWave telescopes designed for?
A: PlaneWave telescopes are designed for advanced astrophotographers, educational institutions, and commercial or research observatories that require precision optics, reliable mechanics, and consistent performance in permanent or remote installations.

Q: Why are PlaneWave CDK telescopes well suited for astrophotography?
A: PlaneWave CDK telescopes provide excellent edge-to-edge image quality, high contrast, and minimal optical aberrations. Their corrected optical design supports long-exposure imaging and delivers sharp stars across the entire field, even with large imaging sensors.

Q: Are PlaneWave telescopes suitable for educational and research use?
A: Yes. PlaneWave telescopes are widely used by universities, STEM programs, and research observatories due to their optical accuracy, mechanical stability, and compatibility with automated observatory software and imaging systems.

Q: Can PlaneWave telescopes be used in remote or permanent observatories?
A: PlaneWave telescopes are built for continuous operation and are well suited for permanent and remote observatory installations. Their robust construction and precise alignment help maintain performance over long periods with minimal adjustment.