Real-Time ISS Tracker with Transparent Globe – Orbigator Build

The appeal of seeing inside our technology endures, and a new project demonstrating that is the Orbigator, a real-time International Space Station (ISS) tracker built by wyojustin. This isn’t the first desktop ISS tracker to emerge – a similar project using a tracking lamp was built by Will Dana in 2025 – but the Orbigator distinguishes itself with a striking design choice: a transparent globe rotating around the internal mechanism. This approach elegantly solves a problem present in Dana’s design, eliminating the need for trailing servo wiring.

How the Orbigator Tracks the ISS

At its core, the Orbigator functions similarly to other ISS tracking projects, calculating and displaying the current position of the space station. However, the execution is what sets it apart. Instead of moving a model *on* a globe, as Dana’s project did, the Orbigator rotates a clear globe *around* the tracking mechanism. This provides a visually compelling representation of the ISS’s orbit and avoids the mechanical complexity of managing wires connected to a moving component. The project leverages a Raspberry Pi Pico 2 microcontroller to perform the orbital calculations, determining the ISS’s location in real-time.

The hardware and software components of the Orbigator are thoroughly documented by wyojustin, with all necessary files available on the project’s GitHub repository. The project utilizes OpenSCAD for the 3D printable components, MicroPython for the firmware running on the Raspberry Pi Pico 2, and KiCad for the printed circuit board (PCB) design. Interestingly, Hackaday alum Anool Mahidharia contributed to the PCB design, adding another layer of expertise to the build.

Building on Previous Perform

The Orbigator builds upon a growing trend of DIY orbital tracking projects. Dana’s ISS tracking lamp, featured on Hackaday in July 2025, served as a direct inspiration for wyojustin’s work. The earlier lamp used a different mechanical approach, but shared the goal of visually representing the ISS’s position. Beyond these specific projects, there’s a broader community interest in tracking satellites and other objects in orbit, fueled by increasing accessibility to data and affordable hardware. As noted in a Hackaday article from April 2025, simpler ISS tracking builds are also available for those who don’t require the complexity of a rotating globe.

Beyond the ISS: Tracking Planes and Other Objects

The principles behind the Orbigator can be extended to track other objects in the sky. Hackaday has also showcased projects focused on tracking airplanes, which can be achieved with a pan-and-tilt security camera, as demonstrated in a May 2025 Hackaday post. While the ISS presents a predictable orbit, tracking planes requires more dynamic adjustments to account for varying flight paths and speeds. These projects highlight the versatility of combining readily available hardware with open-source software to create sophisticated tracking systems.

Software and Hardware Choices

The choice of MicroPython for the firmware is notable. MicroPython is a lean implementation of the Python 3 programming language designed for microcontrollers. Its ease of use and extensive libraries make it a popular choice for rapid prototyping and embedded systems development. OpenSCAD, used for the 3D models, is a script-based solid modeling software, allowing for parametric designs that can be easily modified. KiCad, the PCB design software, is a free and open-source suite offering a comprehensive set of tools for creating professional-quality printed circuit boards.

What Comes Next for Orbital Tracking Projects

The Orbigator and similar projects demonstrate a continuing interest in making space tracking accessible to hobbyists and enthusiasts. Future development could focus on integrating more data sources, such as real-time telemetry from the ISS, to provide even more accurate and detailed tracking information. Improvements in 3D printing technology could also lead to more refined and aesthetically pleasing designs. The open-source nature of these projects encourages collaboration and innovation, meaning we can expect to see further advancements in this area as the community continues to explore new possibilities.