PlaneWave CDK14 Astrograph f/7.2 with Fused Silica Optics

PlaneWave CDK14 Astrograph f/7.2 with Fused Silica Optics

Description:
The PlaneWave CDK14 is a 356 mm high-precision astrograph that offers an optimal balance between the more compact CDK12.5 and the larger CDK17. Based on the CDK optical design (Corrected Dall-Kirkham), it combines a concave primary mirror, convex secondary, and a built-in corrector to deliver a flat field completely free of off-axis coma and astigmatism over a full 70 mm image circle.

The use of Fused Silica, a synthetic glass of the highest purity, provides superior optical and thermal stability. With a thermal expansion coefficient six times lower than Pyrex, it maintains perfect optical shape and focus consistency even under temperature variations. This makes it a material of choice for professional observatories and scientific-grade imaging.

The CDK14 comes standard with a 3.5" Hedrick focuser, smooth and rigid, and is EFA Kit-ready (sold separately). It is also Delta T Ready, with pre-installed wiring for heating elements (heaters and controller sold separately) to prevent dew on optical surfaces.

Its large corrected field of 70 mm accommodates today’s full-frame imaging sensors with ease. Spot diagrams confirm the image quality is limited only by atmospheric seeing and tracking accuracy. Even at 35 mm off-axis, star images remain within 9 micron spots, matching modern pixel sizes.

Technical specifications:

Optical design: Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK)
Aperture: 14" (356 mm)
Focal length: 2563 mm
F-ratio: f/7.2
Corrected field: 70 mm
Back focus: 11.09" (282 mm) from mounting surface
Central obstruction: 23.5% by surface area, 48.5% of diameter
Glass type: Fused Silica
Optical length: 35" (889 mm)
OTA weight: 48 lbs (22 kg)
Focuser: 3.5" Hedrick, EFA-ready (EFA Kit optional)
Mounting: 3" dovetail
Delta-T Ready: yes (heater system sold separately)
Shipping crate required: reference #1323514 (charged separately)