The WandererAstro Ultimate Cable Master Cross Spike is a connection system designed for RASA and HyperStar setups, where the camera is positioned in front of the tube aperture. A printed circuit board integrated into the mount routes the USB and power connections, eliminating the tangle of cables that typically sits in front of the instrument. Its geometry is designed to produce cross-shaped diffraction spikes around the stars.
Price range: CHF 191.08 through CHF 253.20
The WandererAstro Ultimate Cable Master Cross Spike is a connection system designed for RASA and HyperStar setups, where the camera is positioned in front of the tube aperture. A printed circuit board integrated into the mount routes the USB and power connections, eliminating the tangle of cables that typically sits in front of the instrument. Its geometry is designed to produce cross-shaped diffraction spikes around the stars.
According to WandererAstro, the circuit board in this version is 1.6 mm thick and features an anti-reflective front coating. The mount can be adjusted forward and backward as well as side-to-side to align the spikes. This design will appeal to astrophotographers who appreciate the appearance of the cross-shaped spikes; their presence is part of the desired effect and should not be confused with the Spike-Free version.
The manufacturer states that the Cross Spike version causes minimal obstruction and can produce slightly sharper images. The Spike-Free version is recommended for users who want to minimize star spikes or who frequently adjust their camera angle. The final appearance of the stars depends on the instrument and the shooting conditions: identical results cannot be guaranteed for all configurations.
The system is available in four sizes. The 6-, 8-, and 11-inch versions correspond to the 6-, 8-, and 11-inch RASA and HyperStar systems, respectively. The 36-inch version is compatible with the RASA 36 and the 14-inch HyperStar. Be sure to identify your instrument accurately before selecting the mount.
Each size corresponds to a specific mount and should not be chosen based solely on the general name of the product line. Check the model of your telescope and HyperStar system, as well as the available space for your camera. Two mount lengths are included to accommodate different camera body lengths and the back-focus requirements of RASA and HyperStar systems.
The size 6 and 8 models feature two USB 2.0 ports and a 12 V power output. The models for RASA 11 or 36 and HyperStar 11 or 14 have one USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0 ports, and a 12 V output. The connections on the large Cross Spike models therefore differ from those on the large Spike Free models, which have only one USB 2.0 port.
The Cross Spike's 12 V output is rated for a maximum of 3 A. Before connecting, check the power requirements of your camera and any other devices you plan to mount on the bracket. The manufacturer also provides short USB and power cables for making the necessary connections during installation.
The mount is designed so that no permanent modifications to the telescope are required. WandererAstro states that it is compatible with the original Celestron dew shield and heating ring, as well as with most third-party dew shields. However, if using an accessory from another brand, be sure to check its dimensions and mounting method before completing your installation.
The kit includes the Cable Master in the selected size, two lengths of mounts, and short USB and DC cables. The cameras, filters, telescopes, and other equipment shown in the images are used to illustrate the setup and are not included in the kit.
| Version | Cross Spike, 1.6 mm-thick circuit board, and anti-glare front panel |
|---|---|
| Sizes 6 and 8 | 2 USB 2.0 ports and 1 12-volt output |
| Sizes 11 and 36 | 1 USB 3.0 port, 2 USB 2.0 ports, and 1 12-volt output |
| Power Output | 12 V, 3 A maximum |
| Setting | Adjustable position front-to-back and side-to-side |
| Contents | Cable Master, two lengths of cable holders, short USB and DC cables |
