The WandererAstro Ultimate Cable Master Spike Free is a connection system designed for RASA and HyperStar instruments, in which the camera is mounted at the front of the tube. Instead of routing conventional cables across the aperture, it uses a printed circuit board integrated into the mount to carry the USB connections and power to the camera. This design is intended to reduce star spikes and other diffraction effects associated with cables.
Price range: CHF 147.29 through CHF 221.63
The WandererAstro Ultimate Cable Master Spike Free is a connection system designed for RASA and HyperStar instruments, in which the camera is mounted at the front of the tube. Instead of routing conventional cables across the aperture, it uses a printed circuit board integrated into the mount to carry the USB connections and power to the camera. This design is intended to reduce star spikes and other diffraction effects associated with cables.
The Spike Free version uses an S-shaped circuit that is 3 to 4 mm wide, according to WandererAstro. It is designed for astrophotographers who prefer to minimize visible spikes and, according to the manufacturer, is also a suitable choice when the camera angle needs to be adjusted frequently. However, the circuit remains in the optical path: the name “Spike Free” should not be interpreted as a guarantee of the complete absence of artifacts.
WandererAstro notes that diffraction patterns may still be visible on bright stars, particularly due to constraints in the Schmidt plate. Their appearance depends on the instrument and the imaging conditions. If, on the other hand, you prefer cross-shaped spikes, the line also includes a Cross Spike version with a different design.
The manufacturer offers four mount sizes. The 6-, 8-, and 11-inch versions correspond to the 6-, 8-, and 11-inch RASA and HyperStar systems, respectively. The 36 version is designed for the RASA 36 and the 14-inch HyperStar. Be sure to identify your specific instrument before choosing a mount.
The mount is not universal for these diameters. Identify the exact model of your instrument and the size of the Cable Master before ordering. Also check your camera’s requirements and the space available for mounting it. The two bracket lengths provided are designed to accommodate different camera lengths and the back-focus requirements specific to RASA and HyperStar systems.
The size 6 and 8 mounts feature two USB 2.0 ports and a 12 V power output. The mounts for the RASA 11 or 36 and HyperStar 11 or 14 feature one USB 3.0 port, one USB 2.0 port, and a 12 V output. This difference is important if your camera or another device requires a USB 3.0 connection.
The 12 V output is rated for a maximum of 3 A. For continuous operation, WandererAstro recommends limiting the current to 2 A or less. Check the power requirements of the camera and any connected devices before use. Short USB and power cables are included for the connections provided with the mount.
The mount is designed to be installed without making any permanent modifications to the telescope. The manufacturer states that it is compatible with the original Celestron dew shield and heating ring, as well as with most dew shields from other brands. Compatibility with a specific third-party accessory must be verified based on its design and the available space on your telescope.
The kit includes the Cable Master in the selected size, two lengths of mounting brackets, and short USB and DC cables. The cameras, filters, telescopes, and other equipment shown in the manufacturer’s illustrations are for demonstration purposes only and are not included.
| Version | Spike Free, S-shaped circuit 3 to 4 mm wide |
|---|---|
| Sizes 6 and 8 | 2 USB 2.0 ports and 1 12-volt output |
| Sizes 11 and 36 | 1 USB 3.0 port, 1 USB 2.0 port, and 1 12-volt output |
| Power Output | 12 V, 3 A maximum; 2 A or less recommended for continuous use |
| Assembly | Without permanent modifications, two lengths of brackets are included |
| Contents | Cable Master, USB and DC adapters and short cables |
