Celestron C14 Optical Tube Assembly: A Gateway to the Universe
The Celestron C14 Optical Tube Assembly stands as a pinnacle in astronomical observation, offering a stellar combination of size and performance. This 14" Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube (OTA), equipped with Celestron's advanced StarBright XLT optical coatings, provides unparalleled views of the cosmos. Its impressive 3910mm focal length (f/11) and Fastar compatibility make it a formidable tool for both amateur astronomers and astrophotography enthusiasts.
Constructed from durable and lightweight aluminum, the C14 OTA is both robust and portable. Included with the optical tube are a 40mm eyepiece, a 9x50 optical finderscope, a 2” star diagonal, and a 2” visual back, alongside a CGEM-style dovetail bar for versatile mounting options.
The C14 is an observatory-grade instrument, offering over three times the light-gathering power of an 8" telescope. It brings distant celestial objects into sharp focus, allowing you to observe intricate details on Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, and even more distant planets like Uranus and Neptune. The telescope's large aperture and high-quality coatings ensure high-contrast views, even at high magnifications.
Fastar Technology, developed in collaboration with the Santa Barbara Instruments Group (SBIG), revolutionizes astrophotography by allowing the replacement of the SCT's secondary mirror with a field-flattening lens assembly. This modification enables the use of a CCD camera at the f/2 focus of the primary mirror, drastically reducing exposure times for capturing deep space objects.
The StarBright XLT coatings represent a breakthrough in optical coating technology, with a unique combination of multi-layer mirror coatings and anti-reflective coatings made from rare and high-quality materials. The use of high-transmission water white glass further enhances light transmission, resulting in exceptionally bright and clear images.
For more details about the Celestron C14's Fastar compatibility and the innovative StarBright XLT coatings, visit Celestron’s website. This flagship optical tube assembly promises to elevate your observing and imaging experiences, making it a valuable asset for anyone serious about exploring the depths of space.
Specifications
| Optical Design: | Schmidt-Cassegrain |
| Aperture: | 355.5mm (14") |
| Focal Length: | 3910mm (154") |
| Focal Ratio: | f/11 |
| Focal Length of Eyepiece 1: | 40mm (1.57") |
| Magnification of Eyepiece 1: | 98x |
| Finderscope: | 9x50 |
| Star Diagonal: | 2" with 1.25" adapter |
| Optical Tube: | Aluminum |
| Fastar Compatible: | Yes |
| Highest Useful Magnification: | 840x |
| Lowest Useful Magnification: | 51x |
| Limiting Stellar Magnitude: | 15.3 |
| Resolution (Rayleigh): | 0.39 arc seconds |
| Resolution (Dawes): | 0.33 arc seconds |
| Light Gathering Power (Compared to human eye): | 2581x |
| Secondary Mirror Obstruction: | 114mm (4.5") |
| Secondary Mirror Obstruction by Diameter: | 32% |
| Secondary Mirror Obstruction by Area: | 10% |
| Optical Coatings: | StarBright XLT |
| Optical Tube Length: | 787mm (31") |
| Optical Tube Diameter: | 400.5mm (15.77") |
| Optical Tube Weight: | 46 lbs (21 kg) |
| Dovetail: | CGE Dovetail Bar |
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