{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-vx14","title":"Orion Optics UK VX14 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e350mm (14\") primary mirror diameter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1600mm nominal focal length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFast f\/4.6 focal ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV wavefront optical accuracy, certified by Zygo report\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9-point CNC-machined mirror cell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2\" focuser with reduction gearing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnboard fan for rapid mirror cooling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOrion Optics UK VX14 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK VX14 Optical Tube Assembly combines a massive 350mm aperture with a fast f\/4.6 focal ratio for breathtaking deep-sky imaging and high-resolution planetary views. Its 1600mm focal length is built around a primary mirror hand-figured to a standard 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, with each unit verified by a Zygo interferometer report. The entire assembly weighs a manageable 22kg, housed in a 1540mm aluminium tube equipped with a 9-point CNC mirror cell and an integrated cooling fan for thermal stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe 350mm f\/4.6 Primary Mirror: 1\/6 PV Wavefront Accuracy\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e9-Point CNC Cell and Active Cooling in a 22kg Tube\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImaging-Ready 2\" Focuser with Reduction Gearing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eVX14 Optical Grades Explained: 1\/6 PV vs. 1\/8 PV vs. 1\/10 PV Ultra\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront (Professional):\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV Wavefront (Research):\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV Wavefront (Ultra):\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eComparing the Optical Grades\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-comparison-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-comparison-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Orion-Optics-UK-Saturn-1_6-PV.jpg\" alt=\"Saturn viewed through 1\/6 PV Professional grade optics\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-comparison-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Orion-Optics-UK-Saturn-1_8-PV.jpg\" alt=\"Saturn viewed through 1\/8 PV Research grade optics\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1\/8 PV (Research)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-comparison-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Orion-Optics-UK-Saturn-1_10-PV.jpg\" alt=\"Saturn viewed through 1\/10 PV Ultra grade optics\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat class of mount is required for the VX14 OTA's 22kg weight?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e22kg (approx. 48.5 lbs)\u003c\/strong\u003e, plus the weight of a finder, camera, and other accessories, you should use a mount with a payload capacity of at least 60-70 lbs for imaging. Mounts in the EQ8, Losmandy G11, or Paramount class are recommended to handle the VX14's weight and 1540mm length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the VX14's f\/4.6 focal ratio good for imaging galaxies like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the \u003cstrong\u003ef\/4.6 focal ratio\u003c\/strong\u003e is excellent for imaging large deep-sky objects like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31). It allows you to collect a significant amount of light in a shorter time compared to slower f\/8 or f\/10 systems. For edge-to-edge sharp stars across a large sensor, pairing the VX14 with a high-quality coma corrector is essential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the real difference I'll see between the standard 1\/6 PV and 1\/10 PV Ultra optics on Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optic will show you Jupiter's main cloud belts and moons clearly, the \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV Ultra\u003c\/strong\u003e upgrade provides a higher level of contrast and sharpness. This translates to seeing more subtle detail within the belts, smaller storms and ovals, and a more defined edge on the planet's limb, assuming seeing conditions are good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the 75mm secondary mirror on the VX14 cause a large obstruction?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e75mm secondary mirror\u003c\/strong\u003e results in a 21.4% central obstruction by diameter. This is a very reasonable figure for a fast f\/4.6 Newtonian designed for both visual and photographic use, balancing the need for a fully illuminated field for imaging with the desire for high contrast for visual observation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the fan cooling on the VX14 improve my views?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe integrated \u003cstrong\u003ecooling fan\u003c\/strong\u003e helps the 350mm primary mirror reach the ambient nighttime temperature more quickly. This minimizes \"tube currents\"—warm air rising from the mirror—which can distort the image and make it look wavy, like viewing over hot pavement. The result is a steadier, sharper image sooner in your observing session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use 1.25\" eyepieces with the VX14's 2\" focuser?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The \u003cstrong\u003e2\" focuser with reduction gearing\u003c\/strong\u003e typically includes a 1.25\" adapter, allowing you to use both 2\" and 1.25\" format eyepieces and accessories. This gives you the flexibility to use a wide range of eyepieces for both wide-field and high-power views.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNewtonian Reflector\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e350mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1600mm (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4.6\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStandard Optics Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptional Optics Upgrades\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV Ultra\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e75mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2\" focuser with reduction gearing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMirror Cell\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCNC 9-point suspension\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIntegrated Fan\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAluminium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSolid Tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e385mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1540mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e22kg (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eVX14 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/orion-optics-uk-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eOrion Optics UK 1-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Orion Optics UK","offers":[{"title":"Professional (1\/6 PV)","offer_id":52942649032989,"sku":"OOUK-VX14","price":5539.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942649065757,"sku":"OOUK-VX14-1-8-PV-OPTICS","price":5705.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942649098525,"sku":"OOUK-VX14-1-10-PV-OPTICS","price":5953.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Orion-Optics-UK-Logo_f4f245fb-4910-45ed-91bf-b5a981d83f3d.jpg?v=1789608587","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr\/products\/orion-optics-uk-vx14","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}