The Planewave Instruments PW1000 is a complete 1-meter observatory-class telescope featuring a direct drive altitude-azimuth (Alt-Az) mounting system designed and engineered by PlaneWave. With a diffraction-limited 100mm image circle, the PW1000 is designed to excel at imaging on the largest format CCD cameras available today. Light-weighted optics are made of zero-expansion fused silica materials for excellent thermal stability and maximum throughput. The dual Nasmyth ports allow two instruments to be installed simultaneously, and a computer-controlled M3 mirror allows either instrument to be remotely selected in seconds. With direct drive motors, high-resolution encoders, zero backlash, and no periodic error, the PW1000 sets a new standard in 1-meter class observatory telescopes.

• Pinpoint stars over a 100mm image circle (1 degree)
• Dual Nasmyth focus ports, allowing simultaneous mounting of two instruments and easy switching between imaging and visual use.
• Direct-drive motors on each axis for smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope
• High-resolution absolute encoders on each axis for precise positioning
• Zero backlash
• Zero periodic error
• PointXP mount modeling software
• Integrated field de-rotator / rotational field framing
• Integrated primary mirror shutter cover

Alt-Az mounts are the choice for most modern professional observatories. 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 required to make a rigid Alt-Az mount is substantially less, leading to substantial cost savings. Unlike German Equatorial mounts, there are no meridian flips to deal with; you can image continuously from horizon to horizon if desired. With no polar alignment required, the Alt-Az mount is far more intuitive to use than a German Equatorial mount.

The PW1000 uses the same proven technology as the CDK700. Many CDK700s are deployed around the world at various institutions such as: Caltech, Harvard, Penn State, University of New South Wales, Simon Frasier University, University of Montana and University of Hamburg, and many more.

The CDK (Corrected Dall-Kirkham) Optical Design is an innovative solution for unsurpassed scientific investigation, visual observing and astro-imaging at an affordable price. It has excellent performance with large format CCD cameras, far exceeding the off-axis performance of most commercial telescope designs, including the uncorrected Ritchey-Chrétien.

Planewave's design produces a flat, coma-free and astigmatic-free field of view. Since the secondary mirror is spherical, centering is very forgiving, making it easy to align the telescope optics for optimum performance. The end result at the image plane is no off-axis coma, no off-axis astigmatism, and a perfectly flat field to the edge of a 100mm image circle. The stars will be pinpoints from the center to the corner of the field of view.

By utilizing fused silica optical glass Planewave's CDK telescopes take advantage of a thermal expansion rate that is naturally 6 times lower than typical Borosilicate "Pyrex" optical glass.   Planewave's optics retain their shape through long imaging sessions and require less frequent adjustments to focus due to temperature changes for consistent performance. 

A rotating tertiary mirror locks into position using a magnetic locking system for precision positioning in either Nasmyth port, to ensure perfect focus when switching instruments.  Ports can be switched in less than 10 seconds.  Nasmyth focus is maintained at the altitude axis, eliminating the need to rebalance the telescope when switching from port to port regardless of what instruments are in use.  Eyepieces also remain a constant height making observing and monitoring easy and aiding ease of access for public observing.  A computer controlled M3 mirror selects each port quickly, reducing the time needed for transitions.  Easily move from observing to imaging. 

To protect the primary mirror from dust and moisture an integrated four shutter automated system can be controlled with Planewave's PWI software and is included.  

Direct Drive motors and absolute on-axis encoders eliminate the need for reduction gears, thereby eliminating backlash and periodic error. With high-resolution encoders providing the feedback for the direct drive motors, not only will the telescope track without periodic error and backlash, the mount will also counter wind gusts with precise servo feedback. The direct drive motors can move the telescope at incredible speeds for tracking satellites or just to minimize target acquisition time.

Optical System

Mechanical Structure

Motion Control

System Performance

Primary Mirror

Secondary Mirror

Tertiary Mirror

** All specifications are subject to change.

The PW1000 is an oversize item that must be shipped via freight delivery.  You will be quoted final shipping rates upon ordering.  If you require a quote prior to ordering please contact us at [email protected].