Celestron RASA 36cm Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph V2 OTA

The Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) V2 is a cost-effective optical system designed for space surveillance, Space Situational Awareness (SSA), scientific research, and advanced wide-field astrophotography. It delivers an excellent combination of large aperture, fast optical performance, wide field of view, and high image quality. The RASA V2 features a convenient external prime-focus imaging location and a flat focal plane, producing small, sharp star images across the entire field. Its advanced optical design minimizes common aberrations such as field curvature, off-axis coma, and astigmatism, resulting in clear and highly detailed images from center to edge.

Optical 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.

Advanced Features

RASA 36 V2 features the new Ultra-Stable Focus System (USFS). At the heart of this system is a precision linear ball bearing. The bearing minimizes focus shift (unwanted lateral movement of the primary mirror during focusing, which causes shifting of the image) and mirror flop (movement of the primary mirror when the telescope is pointing to different positions in the sky). The USFS is compatible with the optional Celestron Focus Motor (#94155-A). The integrated 12V DC MagLev fan reduces cooldown time and provides optimal airflow through the dust-filtered optical tube. RASA 36 cm’s ample back-focus distance (77.5 mm) accommodates a wide variety of imaging sensors. You may add a custom camera adapter for a field of view up to 4.4 degrees.

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, the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) 36 cm is ideal for space surveillance and other scientific applications.
• With a 4-element lens group featuring extra-low dispersion (ED) glass for images free of false color, coma, and field curvature, RASA 36 cm is also an excellent choice for advanced astroimaging.
  New Ultra-Stable Focus System (USFS) minimizes focus shift, mirror flop, and any other unwanted motion of the primary mirror, enabling easy and dependable focus.
• 60 mm optimized image circle maintains pinpoint stars to the far corners of the largest available sensors.
• An extended spectral range takes advantage of sensor response in the 700-900 nm range, allowing a brighter overall signal to be detected.