PlaneWave CDK14 Astrograph f/7.2 PlaneWave Telescope with Fused Silica Optics

High Performance CDK Optical System

The name CDK (Corrected Dall-Kirkham) corresponds to the unique optical design developed by PlaneWave. This system is based on a modified Dall-Kirkham configuration with an optical correction unit that completely eliminates the off-axis coma:

• Off-axis coma

• Off-axis astigmatism

• Field curvature

The result is a perfectly flat field up to a 70 mm image circle, ensuring extremely sharp and uniform images across the entire sensor, ideal for large format astronomical cameras.

Main Features

• Optical design: Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK)

• Aperture: 356 mm (14")

• Focal length: 2563 mm

• Focal ratio: f/7.2

• Corrected image field: 70 mm

• 3" dovetail included

• Delta-T thermal system ready

• Compatible with 3.5" Hedrick focuser and EFA kit (optional)

• Special transport packaging required (part number 1323514, not included)

Highest Purity Fused Silica Optics

The CDK14 incorporates optics made of Fused Silica, an amorphous synthetic material of the highest purity and one of the most transparent optical glasses available today.

Advantages of Fused Silica

• Superior homogeneity and transmission than crystalline quartz

• Excellent thermal stability

• Coefficient of thermal expansion six times lower than borosilicate glass (Pyrex)

• Maintains focus even with temperature changes

• High thermal shock resistance

• Extremely high melting point (~1600°C)

Thanks to these properties, fused silica is the material of choice in professional observatories and high-precision scientific applications where optical stability is critical.

Equipment Included

• 3" dovetail

• Anti-spray heating system on primary and secondary mirror (requires Delta-T controller #1329110, not included)

• OTA protective cover for the optical tube

• USB flash drive with software and collimation instructions

• Allen key set (European orders only)

• Soft protector for secondary mirror

• 12V AC power adapter

Dimensions and Transport

• Width: 787 mm

• Height: 660 mm

• Length: 1346 mm

• Shipping weight: 102.1 kg

(Dimensions may vary slightly depending on final packaging)

Technical Specifications

Ideal Solution for Professional Observatories

The PlaneWave CDK14 is a telescope specially designed for scientific projects, advanced astrophotography and heavy-duty automated observatories. Its mechanical stability, optical precision and compatibility with professional instrumentation make it a reference solution for high level astronomical installations.

In Telescopiomania we are specialists in the design, installation and commissioning of professional and remote astronomical observatories, integrating this advanced optical technology with mounts, automation, software and astronomical domes to offer complete turnkey solutions.