ISS pointer

thingiverse

This project aims to create a useless desk toy that points at the location of the international space station in the sky. It can also be programmed to point at other objects. The ultimate goal is to fetch TLE data from the internet and allow users to wirelessly control it. Currently, the device is hard-coded to point at a specific satellite due to memory constraints on the Arduino 328. However, with some adjustments, it's possible to fetch data from the internet while calculating orbital parameters. The stepper drivers used are weak, but this only affects homing speed, which can be slowed down to resolve the issue. Interestingly, after a brief warm-up period, homing works flawlessly. The project utilizes 28BYJ stepper motors and Darlington arrays for motor control. To build the device, the following parts are required: * Elegoo 28byj stepper motors * Arduino Nano * RTC (Real Time Clock) * Opto-endstops * Breadboard * Random plastic screws Assembly tips include sanding the gears to ensure smooth movement and attaching the pointer gear carefully to avoid damaging the shaft. Wiring involves connecting a real-time clock and motor drivers, as shown in the wiring diagram. Note that the motors are more reliable when powered via USB, with the +5V pin connected directly to the Arduino's +5V pin.