CDK600 Telescope System

Key Features of the CDK600 Observatory System

CDK24 Optical Tube Assembly

• Aperture and Focal Length: Boasts a 24-inch aperture and a 3974 mm focal length at an f/6.5 focal ratio, ideal for detailed deep-sky imaging and wide field observations.
• Advanced Optical Design: Features a Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical design that eliminates off-axis coma and astigmatism, achieving a perfectly flat field across a 70 mm image circle, which translates to exceptionally sharp images across the entire viewing area.
• High-Quality Construction: Constructed from carbon fiber, enhancing durability while reducing thermal expansion, allowing for rapid thermal equilibration which is essential in maintaining precise optical alignment under fluctuating temperatures.
• Superior Mirrors and Coatings: Equipped with high-stability fused silica mirrors known for their minimal thermal expansion, complemented by high-performance coatings that maximize light throughput while minimizing stray light for unparalleled imaging quality.
• Thermal Management: Incorporates an advanced cooling system with strategically placed fans that expedite thermal stabilization, vital for maintaining consistent high-quality imaging and minimizing focus shifts caused by temperature variations.

L-600 Direct Drive Mount

• Direct Drive Motors: Utilizes state-of-the-art direct-drive motors on each axis, ensuring smooth, rapid, and virtually silent movement of the telescope with zero backlash and zero periodic error, perfect for precise tracking and efficient repositioning of celestial objects.
• High-Resolution Encoders: Outfitted with high-resolution optical encoders on both axes, offering precise positioning and movement, critical for top-tier astrophotography and detailed astronomical studies.
• Versatile Configuration Options: Can be installed in either equatorial or alt/az configurations, providing flexibility based on observational needs and site requirements.
• Rapid Target Acquisition: Capable of impressive slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, allowing for quick and efficient targeting of celestial bodies and satellites, essential for dynamic observations and responsive astrophotography.

Application-Specific Advantages

Astrophotography

The CDK600 excels as a premier system for astrophotographers, offering unmatched tracking accuracy and image stability, which facilitate capturing spectacular celestial images with detailed resolution and vibrant colors.

Astronomy Research

Researchers will find the CDK600 indispensable for its reliable performance and precise data collection capabilities. It serves as a robust platform for sophisticated photometry, spectroscopy, and minor planet tracking, offering a strong foundation for scientific discovery and exploration.

Visual Observations

For enthusiasts of visual astronomy, the CDK600 provides vibrant and detailed views of the universe. Its substantial aperture and high-quality optical components ensure exceptional viewing of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, enriching every observational experience.

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

The CDK700 system, with its precise direct drive motors and high-resolution encoders, is capable of engaging in SSA and SDA applications, such as tracking satellites and space debris. However, while it offers notable capabilities in these areas, it is not the ideal system for dedicated SSA/SDA operations due to its primary design focus on astrophotography and astronomical research. For those seeking a system optimized for the rigorous demands of SSA/SDA, we recommend considering the T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal.