PlaneWave DeltaRho 350 OTA

PlaneWave DeltaRho 350 – 14-Inch f/3 Widefield Cassegrain Imaging Telescope

For years, the PlaneWave team envisioned the ultimate widefield imaging instrument. That vision came to life in 2021 with the introduction of the DeltaRho 350, a revolutionary fast f/3 Cassegrain-focus astrograph designed to meet the demands of today’s deep-sky imagers.

With its 350mm aperture and 1050mm focal length, the DeltaRho 350 delivers remarkable speed, resolution, and edge-to-edge sharpness across a 60mm corrected image circle—perfect for large-format cameras. Whether you’re targeting sprawling nebulae or distant galaxies, this telescope enables high-efficiency, flat-field imaging without the compromises of prime-focus systems.

Its advanced baffling, fused silica optics, and fixed primary mirror ensure thermal stability and alignment integrity over long sessions, while the system’s integrated Serie-5 rotator and focuser introduce a compact and highly adaptable back-end solution for precision imaging.

Key Specifications

Optical Design: Corrected Cassegrain (CDK-based)
Clear Aperture: 350mm (14 in)
Focal Ratio: f/3
Focal Length: 1050mm
Image Circle: 60mm (fully baffled and corrected)
Back Focus: 80mm after focuser (71.64mm available when using Serie-5XL focuser + rotator combo)
Mirror Material: Fused silica – low thermal expansion
OTA Construction: Carbon fiber – truss-tube design with enhanced baffling
Cooling: Rear and side fans for rapid thermal equalization
Compatibility: Serie-5 controller system; compatible only with Serie-5 devices

Performance & Applications

- Widefield Imaging Redefined:
The DeltaRho 350’s fast f/3 optics and corrected 60mm image circle allow full-frame and medium-format sensors to capture rich, flat astrophotography frames with zero field curvature or coma.

- Fixed Primary Mirror:
Like the CDK series, the DeltaRho uses a fixed primary mirror, eliminating the mechanical flexure and tilt issues often associated with fast imaging systems—ensuring excellent stability and collimation.

- Simplified Collimation:
Collimation is streamlined using just three secondary mirror screws, making setup and maintenance straightforward even in remote observatory settings.

- Ultra-Compact Back-End Integration:
The optional Serie-5 rotator and focuser combination adds just 70.6mm of back focus usage, leaving ample room for filter wheels, cameras, and other accessories.

- Rugged & Thermally Stable:
With carbon fiber construction and fused silica optics, the DeltaRho 350 maintains its alignment and focus throughout fluctuating temperatures, aided by integrated cooling fans for optimal equilibrium.

- Ready for Professional Use:
Whether in a personal observatory or research-grade setup, the DeltaRho 350 supports long, high-throughput sessions with minimal maintenance and maximum imaging efficiency.