About this product
Model: cel_r-a_astrograph_14_ota
Part Number: 91077-CGL
This larger version of the original Celestron 11" RASA was developed for the field of Space Situational Awareness (SSA). SSA is a project dedicated to detecting and mapping space junk in orbit.
In 2015, SSA professionals discovered the smaller 11" RASA is an ideal instrument for this application. With its fast focal ratio and wide field of view it can detect even small pieces of space junk traveling at extraordinarily high speeds. There are now dozens of RASA telescopes in use around the world every night scanning the skies to protect satellites, at a fraction of the cost of other systems!
Celestron’s team collaborated with SSA experts to develop an even better telescope to meet this important need. The result is the 14" RASA 36 which can detect individual pieces of debris measuring less than 1 meter!
Key Features
- A breakthrough 36 cm aperture, f/2.2 optical system designed for professional applications that require both a wide field of view and resolution, such as space surveillance and other scientific applications.
- 4-element lens group utilizes extra-low dispersion (ED) glass for images free of false color, coma, and field curvature, the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) 36 cm is also an excellent choice for advanced astroimaging.
- 60 mm optimized image circle maintains pinpoint stars to the far corners of the largest available sensors
- Extended spectral range takes advantage of sensor response in the 700-900 nm range, allowing a brighter overall signal to be detected
- Redesigned focusing system minimizes focus shifting or other unwanted motion of the primary mirror, enabling easy and stable focus
RASA Performance
The 36 cm aperture version is the largest RASA Celestron manufactures; it is the biggest and fastest (f/2.2) optical instrument of its kind available “off-the-shelf.” Unlike most telescopes, which only focus visible light (400-700 nm), the RASA 36 cm focuses an extended spectral range (400-900 nm), allowing a brighter signal to be detected by a camera sensor. The RASA 36 cm also features a redesigned focus system, which ensures easy and stable focusing.
RASA 36 cm’s ample back-focus distance (77.5 mm) accommodates a wide variety of imaging sensors. A custom camera adapter can be added for a field of view up to 4.4 degrees.

NOTES:
The RASA 36 is a professional-caliber, high-precision instrument manufactured and aligned to an exacting standard to provide exceptional optical performance. The telescope has sturdy packaging and is delivered on a pallet to ensure it arrives safely and retains it’s optical alignment.
The RASA optical system is designed for astrophotography. It cannot be used visually. The prime focus focal plane is located at the front of the optical system, so it cannot accommodate a traditional eyepiece.
RASA telescopes are best suited to experienced astronomers. If you are unsure whether one will suit your requirements please contact us before placing an order.
Rowe-Ackermann Tour (Shows 11" model)
Specifications
Optical design | Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt |
Aperture | 355.6 mm (14") |
Focal length | 790 mm (31.1") |
Focal ratio | f/2.2 |
Resolution (Rayleigh) | 0.39 arc seconds |
Resolution (Dawes) | 0.36 arc seconds |
Light gathering power (compared to human eye) | 2581x |
Central obstruction diameter | 158mm (6.22") (44% of aperture diameter) |
Imaging circle | 60.1mm (2.36") Ø, 4.4° |
Usable field | 70mm (2.75") Ø, 5.1°, only minimal performance loss at edge of FOV |
Wavelength range | 400 – 900 nm |
Spot size | < 6.3 μm RMS across FOV |
Off-Axis illumination | 83% at 30mm (1.18") off-axis |
Optical window | 104mm (4.09") Ø |
Back focus with included camera adapter | 55mm (2.16") |
Back focus from top of threaded collar | 77.5mm (3.05") |
Optical tube material | Aluminium |
Optical tube length | 1079.5mm (42.5") |
Optical tube diamater | 406.4mm (16") |
Focuser | New focuser design, minimizes focus shift |
Optical tube weight | 75 lbs (34.02 kg) |
Other features | Ventilation fan, dual CGE dovetail mounting bars |
Optical coatings | StarBright XLT |
Included items | 48mm (1.89") camera adapter, fan battery pack |
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