PlaneWave RC24 Ritchey-Chrétien f/10.6 avec Fused Silica Optics (1323226Q)

PlaneWave RC24 Ritchey-Chrétien f/10.6 avec Fused Silica Optics

Description:
The PlaneWave RC24 is a 610 mm Ritchey-Chrétien (RC) telescope designed to deliver exceptional on-axis optical performance using a purely reflective system. The native RC optical configuration employs only a hyperbolic primary and secondary mirror, with no refractive optics in the light path, making it an excellent instrument for focused scientific research where wide-field correction is not required.

The telescope’s lightweight and rigid carbon fiber truss tube minimizes thermal expansion and stabilizes the optical path. An expansion joint between the aluminum dovetail and carbon structure prevents distortion from thermal contraction or expansion.

All optics are made from Fused Silica, an ultra-pure synthetic glass known for its thermal and mechanical stability. With a thermal expansion coefficient six times lower than Pyrex, it maintains optical precision even under significant temperature shifts, making it ideal for long exposure imaging in scientific settings.

The RC24 is Delta-T Ready, with polyimide film heater pads pre-installed on both mirrors. Active cooling is provided by six fans (three on the backplate, three on the sides) to accelerate thermal equilibrium. The system is controllable via PlaneWave’s Interface 3 software when paired with the optional EFA Kit.

It includes an 8" dovetail, back plate to focuser spacer, soft secondary mirror cover, OTA dust cover, USB flash drive with collimation software, Allen key set (EU orders), and 12V AC adapter. A shipping crate (#1323524) is required and sold separately.

Technical specifications:

Optical design: Ritchey-Chrétien (RC)
Aperture: 24" (610 mm)
Focal length: 6469 mm (254.68")
F-ratio: f/10.6
Back focus: 10.3" (261.6 mm) from mounting surface, 7.3" (185.4 mm) from racked-in focuser
Central obstruction: 30% of primary mirror diameter
Glass type: Fused Silica
Optical length: 56" (1422 mm)
OTA weight: 240 lbs (108.9 kg)
Structure: Carbon fiber truss with dovetail expansion joint
Mounting: 8" dovetail included
Delta-T Ready: yes (controller #1329110 required, sold separately)
Focuser compatibility: 3.5" Hedrick (optional)

Included accessories:

• 8" dovetail

• Dew heater pads integrated (controller not included)

• Back plate to focuser spacer

• OTA cover

• Soft cover for secondary mirror

• USB drive with software and collimation instructions

• Allen wrench set (EU orders)

• 12V AC adapter

Shipping crate required: reference #1323524 (charged separately)

Estimated shipping dimensions:
Width: 40" (1016 mm)
Height: 48" (1219 mm)
Length: 78" (1981 mm)
Gross weight: 500 lbs (226.8 kg)