Starlink pan-tilt mount and satellite tracker

A description of this project will be posted soon. In the mean time, you can view the work in progress photos below.

first iteration using a breadboard and rotary encoder
First iteration of a servo control system using a rotary encoder, Particle Photon, and Arduino Uno. LED colors change to indicate system states.
Closeup of first iteration
Closeup of first iteration
3D model of bearing hub
Model of a hub that was 3D printed and inserted into a Starlink wall mount. Ball bearings fit into the inner sections of the hub and an axel is placed through the center.
First functional prototype
First functional prototype. Two servos are connected using a pully and drive belt system, rotating a galvanized steel pipe connected to a pole mount. A Starlink dish can be attached to the pole mount.
Second iteration of the servo control circuit
Second iteration of the servo control circuit. A Particle Boron microcontroller receives rotary encoder positions from a database and rotates the dish to match the positions.
Closeup of second iteration controller
Closeup of second iteration controller
Third iteration of the rotation mechanism
Third iteration of the rotation mechanism. I attempted to reduce the downward load on the servos by positioning them on the sides of the mount and attaching spur gears.
Third iteration of the rotation mechanism with linear actuator attached
Third iteration of the rotation mechanism with linear actuator attached.
Arduino library created for this project
Arduino library created for this project
5V relays
5V relays used to pass signals from the 5V Arduino Uno to the 12V motor and linear actuator.
Fourth iteration
Fourth iteration. Servos were removed and replaced with a 12V Nema 23 stepper motor. A worm gearbox was added to the base, increasing the system's torque. A slip ring was added, enabling 360 degree rotation without tangling any wires.
Models used to 3D print shaft connectors and a base for the linear actuator
Models used to 3D print shaft connectors and a base for the linear actuator.
Fifth iteration
Fifth iteration. A series of steel shafts are connected using the 3D printed connectors. Circuitry is placed in an enclosure.
The 3D prints could not sustain the repeated downward force of the linear actuator. The slip disk was upgraded to a version that is waterproof.
The 3D prints could not sustain the repeated downward force of the linear actuator. The slip ring was upgraded to a version that is waterproof.
Aerospace-grade aluminum shaft connectors
Aerospace-grade aluminum shaft connectors
Assembled with aluminum shaft connectors
Assembled with aluminum shaft connectors

Screenshot of a Python program returning coordinates of Starlink satellites relative to my given location.
Screenshot of a Python program returning coordinates of Starlink satellites relative to my given location.