Orion Optics UK VX14 Optical Tube Assembly

The 350mm f/4.6 Primary Mirror: 1/6 PV Wavefront Accuracy

At the heart of the VX14 is a hand-finished 350mm primary mirror, delivering the light-gathering power needed to resolve faint details in distant galaxies and nebulae. The f/4.6 focal ratio provides a wide field of view and reduces exposure times for astrophotography. Every VX14 is guaranteed to have a minimum optical quality of 1/6 PV wavefront, ensuring sharp, high-contrast images free from the aberrations common in mass-produced optics.

9-Point CNC Cell and Active Cooling in a 22kg Tube

A mirror of this size requires exceptional support to maintain its figure. The VX14 uses a CNC-machined 9-point flotation cell that distributes the mirror's weight evenly, preventing flexure and preserving optical alignment as the telescope moves. An integrated cooling fan accelerates thermal equilibrium, reducing mirror-induced air currents and stabilizing the image much faster than a passive system. These components are housed in a rigid, 385mm diameter aluminium tube, keeping the total OTA weight to 22kg.

Imaging-Ready 2" Focuser with Reduction Gearing

The VX14 is equipped with a robust 2" focuser featuring reduction gearing, allowing for precise, minute adjustments critical for achieving sharp focus, especially with the fast f/4.6 optical system. This is essential for both high-magnification visual work and astrophotography where critical focus is non-negotiable. The large 2" barrel accommodates wide-field eyepieces and modern imaging cameras without vignetting.

VX14 Optical Grades Explained: 1/6 PV vs. 1/8 PV vs. 1/10 PV Ultra

While the standard 1/6 PV wavefront optics deliver exceptional views, Orion Optics UK offers two higher grades for the most demanding observers. The choice depends entirely on your primary targets and observing goals.

• 1/6 PV Wavefront (Professional): This grade provides excellent, sharp images across all astronomical targets. It is a significant step up from typical commercial telescopes and is ideal for deep-sky imaging and general observing.
• 1/8 PV Wavefront (Research): The upgrade to 1/8 PV offers a noticeable increase in contrast and fine detail, particularly on the Moon and planets. Faint planetary details like Jupiter's cloud festoons and the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings become more distinct.
• 1/10 PV Wavefront (Ultra): Representing the pinnacle of Newtonian optics, the 1/10 PV Ultra grade delivers the highest possible contrast and resolution. This level of correction allows the telescope to perform at its theoretical limit, revealing the most subtle planetary and lunar features the atmosphere will allow.

Comparing the Optical Grades

The images below show the same view of Saturn captured through each available optical grade, under identical conditions -- a visual illustration of how each step up in wavefront accuracy sharpens contrast and fine detail.

1/6 PV (Professional)

1/8 PV (Research)

1/10 PV (Ultra)