The Astronomical Clock
About the Project
The Astronomical Clock is a 500 pound, ceiling-mounted mechanical model of the solar system. It is actuated by 24 stepper motors which drive 24 independent planetary motions, including orbits, rotations, moon cycles, and planetary tilts. The clock also features a 120 pound brass custom-engraved Zodiac disk and a 20,000 year clock which displays astrological ages of our galaxy. The device connects to NASA’s SPICE database which allows the planets to move to any position in time over a span of 20,000 years.
The planets were 3D printed in color and contain topographical data obtained by satellite images. At the center of the device is a custom blown glass sun, which changes its brightness with the time of day.
My Role
I was the primary engineer, project manager, and designer for this project. I designed over 100+ unique brass, aluminum, sheet metal, and plastic parts and managed 15 separate vendors to ensure everything was fabricated according to specification. This also included artists, engineers, and engravers. The entire mechanism was designed in SolidWorks, but I also used Blender to work with the 3D planetary models.
Additionally, I was responsible for prototyping, assembly, testing, installation, and electronics. I meticulously inspected every part and ensured that the device was working properly.
This was the most challenging and rewarding project I’ve ever worked on and I’m incredibly proud of how it turned out.
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