Celestron RASA 36cm Rowe–Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph V2 OTA

Celestron 36cm Rowe–Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA 36) V2 Optical Tube Assembly – CGE Dovetail

Professional ultra-fast f/2.2 astrograph for advanced imaging & scientific applications

The Celestron RASA 36 V2 is a flagship, professional-grade astrograph designed for extreme wide-field performance, ultra-fast imaging, and precision scientific work. Built by Celestron, this 14" Rowe–Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph delivers a unique combination of large aperture, blazing f/2.2 speed, and massive corrected image circle — making it ideal for space situational awareness (SSA), research, and elite-level astrophotography.

This is Celestron’s largest and fastest off-the-shelf RASA, engineered for users who require both resolution and wide-field coverage in a single optical system.

Important: The RASA 36 V2 is a dedicated imaging instrument and does not support visual observing with eyepieces.

Massive 36cm Aperture with Ultra-Fast f/2.2 Optics

With a 355.6mm (14") aperture and 790mm focal length, the RASA 36 V2 gathers an extraordinary amount of light while maintaining a compact optical path.

Key advantages:

• f/2.2 focal ratio for dramatically shorter exposure times

• Ideal for rapid sky surveys, transient detection, and deep-sky imaging

• Enables wide mosaics, comet hunting, and space surveillance

• Reduced tracking demands compared to long focal length systems

Unlike most telescopes limited to visible wavelengths, the RASA 36 V2 focuses an extended spectral range from 400–900nm, allowing sensors to capture additional near-IR signal for a brighter overall image.

Huge Corrected Image Circle for Large Sensors

Designed for today’s biggest imaging chips, the RASA 36 V2 provides:

• 60mm optimised image circle with pinpoint stars

• Usable field up to 70mm with only minimal edge performance loss

• Up to 4.4° field of view (5.1° usable)

This makes it exceptionally well suited to large-format astronomical cameras and scientific imaging systems.

Advanced Optical Design with ED Glass

A precision 4-element lens group featuring extra-low dispersion (ED) glass suppresses:

• Chromatic aberration

• Field curvature

• Off-axis coma

• Astigmatism

Combined with Celestron’s proprietary XLT multi-coatings and enhanced aluminium mirrors, the system delivers:

• Excellent light throughput

• High contrast

• Uniform sharpness across the field

• Spot sizes under 6.3 μm RMS across the FOV

Performance typically reserved for bespoke observatory instruments — now available in a production astrograph.

Ultra-Stable Focus System (USFS)

Critical focusing at f/2.2 demands mechanical perfection. The RASA 36 V2 employs Celestron’s Ultra-Stable Focus System, using a precision linear ball bearing to:

• Minimise focus shift

• Reduce mirror flop

• Maintain optical alignment while slewing

The system is compatible with the optional Celestron Focus Motor for automated focusing workflows.

Imaging-Ready Professional Features

Every detail of the RASA 36 V2 is engineered for demanding imaging environments:

• Integrated 12V MagLev cooling fan with dust-filtered vents

• Extended 77.5mm back focus for flexible camera integration

• Dual CGE / Losmandy-style dovetail bars

• Rear carrying handles for safer mounting

• Multiple threaded mounting points for accessories

• Push–pull collimation screws for precision optical alignment (rarely required)

• Includes M48 camera adapter

A complete imaging platform — not just an optical tube.

Freight Delivery Requirement

Due to its size, weight, and precision alignment, the RASA 36 V2 is shipped palletised via LTL truck freight to preserve optical performance. This professional delivery method is mandatory for all end customers.

Key Features

• 14" (355.6mm) Rowe–Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph

• Ultra-fast f/2.2 optical system

• 60mm corrected image circle (70mm usable)

• Extended spectral response: 400–900nm

• ED glass optics with XLT coatings

• Ultra-Stable Focus System

• Integrated MagLev cooling fan

• Dual CGE dovetail bars

• Optimised for large-format imaging sensors

• Built for scientific, SSA, and advanced astroimaging applications

Optical Specifications

• Optical Design: Rowe–Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph

• Aperture: 355.6mm (14")

• Focal Length: 790mm

• Focal Ratio: f/2.2

• Image Circle: 60.1mm optimised

• Usable Field: 70mm

• Resolution (Dawes): 0.36 arc sec

• Light Gathering Power: 2581× human eye

• Wavelength Range: 400–900nm

• Optical Coatings: Enhanced aluminium + XLT

Physical Specifications

• Optical Tube Length: 1079.5mm

• Optical Tube Diameter: 406.4mm

• Weight: 75 lb (34.02kg)

• Construction: Aluminium

• Focuser: Ultra-Stable Focus System

• Dovetail: CGE / Losmandy

Included Items

• 48mm camera adapter

• Fan battery pack

Why Choose the Celestron RASA 36 V2?

• Largest off-the-shelf RASA available

• Ultra-fast f/2.2 system for rapid acquisition

• Massive corrected field for modern large sensors

• Extended spectral range for brighter data capture

• Professional mechanical stability and cooling

• Ideal for SSA, research, and elite astrophotography

If you require maximum aperture, extreme speed, and wide-field precision in a production astrograph, the Celestron RASA 36 V2 stands in a class of its own — delivering observatory-level performance for demanding professional and scientific imaging applications.

Solar safety reminder: Never observe the Sun without a certified solar filter.