Rotators

From SatNOGS Wiki


The SatNOGS Client uses hamlib to speak to a rotator. With this, we are able to support almost any commercially available rotator, and have the flexibility to support home built rotators that implement protocols like EasyComm or Yaesu GS-232.

In this wiki page you could read a review about the AZ/EL rotators, which are popular in HAM community.

If you would rather start with a stationary antenna setup (no rotator), see our omnidirectional guide.

Commercial Rotators (review)

Homebuilt Rotators

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Yaesu G-5500

The G-5500 is a common rotator for amateur radio AZ/EL applications. The SatNOGS client interfaces with this rotator via the hamlib library. While a commercial computer interface is available from Yaesu, the SatNOGS project provides an open hardware design that is much cheaper.

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SatNOGS Rotator v2

The v2 rotator is not recommended, as v3 provides much greater strength and durability. These docs remain for historical purposes.

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Portable Rotation AZ/EL

Docs to be written, but we do have successful stations using this rotator with the SatNOGS client.

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SatNOGS Rotator v3

The v3 rotator is a complete overhaul on the v2 design. The 2020 slotted extrusion frame and larger gears provide for a stronger rotator with greater wind loading.

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Alfa Spid X-Y

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SuperAntennaz

SuperAntennaz is an all metal antenna rotator designed for satellite traking by user Yohan HADJI

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Dwingeloo Radio Observatory

(okay, you're not likely to keep a deep space observatory on the network, but it has been done!)

Metal Antenna Rotator

A simple metal antenna rotator by User:Jujun