PlaneWave CDK14 F/7.2 OTA

PlaneWave CDK14 – 14-Inch Corrected Dall-Kirkham Astrograph Telescope

The CDK14 from PlaneWave Instruments is a premium-class astrograph that combines meticulous optical design with engineering excellence. Designed for the serious astrophotographer and dedicated astronomer, the CDK14 delivers exceptional imaging performance, making it an ideal instrument for observatories, research institutions, and high-end private installations.

Utilizing PlaneWave’s signature Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK) optical system, the CDK14 produces a coma-free, flat-field image across a large 70mm image circle—perfect for today’s large-format CCD and CMOS cameras. The robust carbon fiber tube and fused silica optics ensure optimal thermal stability and minimal flexure, maintaining alignment and sharpness across long imaging sessions.

Key Specifications

Optical Design: Corrected Dall-Kirkham (CDK)
Clear Aperture: 356mm (14 in)
Focal Ratio: f/7.2
Focal Length: 2563mm
Back Focus: 282mm from mounting surface
Image Circle: 70mm
Mirror Material: Fused silica – low thermal expansion
OTA Material: Carbon fiber – lightweight and rigid

Performance & Applications

- Flat, Coma-Free Image Plane:
The CDK optical system eliminates off-axis coma and astigmatism, delivering pinpoint stars and sharp images across a fully corrected 70mm image circle—ideal for large-format sensors.

- Optimized for Astrophotography:
With a generous back focus and compatibility with motorized focusers and rotators, the CDK14 supports complex imaging trains including filter wheels, off-axis guiders, and spectrographs.

- Thermal and Mechanical Stability:
Fused silica mirrors provide excellent resistance to thermal expansion, while the carbon fiber optical tube assembly reduces weight and minimizes flexure under changing environmental conditions.

- Research-Grade Precision:
Whether used for photometry, spectroscopy, or deep-sky imaging, the CDK14 delivers data-grade precision for advanced amateur and professional observatories.

- Versatile Observatory Integration:
Compact and rugged enough for remote observatories, yet precise enough for academic institutions, the CDK14 is a go-to instrument for demanding optical performance in a mid-sized form factor.