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LittleSunTracker - Dual Axis Solar Tracker
LittleSunTracker is a compact, 3D-printable dual-axis solar tracker designed around the ESP32 platform.
Unlike traditional solar trackers that rely on photocells or light sensors, LittleSunTracker determines the Sun's position astronomically using geographic location, date and time.
This means the system always knows where the Sun should be, even when direct sunlight is temporarily unavailable because of clouds or shadows.
LittleSunTracker was designed not only as a solar tracking system, but also as an educational, experimental and demonstration platform. It can reproduce the Sun's movement indoors, making it suitable for learning, prototyping, renewable energy demonstrations and technical projects.
When used with a photovoltaic panel for actual energy production, direct sunlight is of course still required.
DUAL-AXIS TRACKING
The system controls two independent axes:
- AZIMUTH - horizontal rotation
- ELEVATION - vertical panel inclination
Both axes are driven by compact 28BYJ-48 geared stepper motors.
AS5600 magnetic position sensors provide axis position feedback, allowing the system to monitor the actual mechanical position of the tracker.
The mechanical design uses bearings on moving parts and has been developed specifically for LittleSunTracker.
ESP32 CONTROL SYSTEM
LittleSunTracker is controlled by an ESP32 with 4 MB flash memory.
The controller manages:
- automatic Sun position calculation
- AZ and EL motor control
- AS5600 position sensors
- elevation limit switches
- rollover safety control
- OLED display
- physical control buttons
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- web-based configuration and monitoring
No external light sensor is required for solar tracking.
WEB DASHBOARD
LittleSunTracker includes a web-based control interface that allows the system to be configured and monitored directly from a browser.
The Dashboard provides access to system status, motor control, position information, sensors, configuration, diagnostics, firmware management and other LittleSunTracker functions.
OLED DISPLAY AND PHYSICAL CONTROLS
The project supports a 128 x 64 OLED display and physical buttons for direct local control.
Physical buttons can be used for functions such as:
- PAUSE / RESUME
- changing the OLED screen
- immediate Sun tracking
OPTIONAL PCB
The project can be assembled using traditional wiring as described in the documentation.
For users who prefer a dedicated circuit board, Gerber files for the LittleSunTracker PCB are also included.
The PCB is completely optional.
FIRMWARE INCLUDED
The package includes ready-to-use firmware files for ESP32 with 4 MB flash memory.
LittleSunTracker_FACTORY_V1.0.0.binFor first installation or recovery on a new or blank ESP32 using USB.
LittleSunTracker_V1.0.0.binFor normal firmware updates directly from the LittleSunTracker Dashboard.
Firmware installation instructions are provided in multiple languages.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
- STL files for 3D printing
- complete assembly documentation
- component and wiring documentation
- multilingual PDF manuals
- Gerber files for the optional PCB
- factory firmware
- update firmware
- multilingual firmware installation instructions
DASHBOARD PRO
An optional Dashboard PRO version is available separately.
Regular price: EUR 49.90Launch price: EUR 39.90
Dashboard PRO can only be purchased directly from the LittleSunTracker Dashboard.
Dashboard PRO is not included with this CGTrader purchase.
PROJECT PHILOSOPHY
LittleSunTracker combines 3D printing, mechanics, electronics, embedded firmware, solar astronomy and web control in a single DIY project.
It is suitable for makers, students, electronics enthusiasts, renewable energy demonstrations and experimental solar projects.
IMPORTANT
LittleSunTracker is a DIY project.
Basic knowledge of electronics, ESP32 boards, wiring and 3D printing is recommended.
Always verify mechanical movement, wiring and safety limits before leaving the tracker operating unattended.
The PCB is optional and the project can also be assembled using conventional wiring.
LICENSE
This product is licensed for personal use only.
Redistribution, sharing or resale of the supplied digital files is not permitted.
Commercial sale of LittleSunTracker units, printed parts or PCB boards requires prior written authorization from Phsoftware.
Copyright (c) 2026 Phsoftware - LittleSunTracker
No Sun? No Problem.
REVIEWS & COMMENTS
accuracy, and usability.
