Kits_Arsenal›Solar_Tracker
Solar Light Tracker Kit
Original
Hero
Detail
Intermediate Ages 10+

Solar Light Tracker

$149.99
starstarstarstarstar
(31 reviews)

Build a smart solar panel that follows the sun! Using light-dependent resistors (LDRs) and servo motors, this kit teaches your panel to automatically orient toward the brightest light source. Learn real-world renewable energy concepts, sensor arrays, and closed-loop control systems. Our most affordable STEM kit with powerful learning outcomes.

timer

Build Time

5-6 Hours

handyman

Parts Count

35+ Components

code

Languages

C++ / Arduino

memory

Controller

Arduino Compatible

local_shipping Free shipping on 5+ kits
inventory_2 All parts & tools included
eco Learn renewable energy!

engineering Tech Specifications

straighten

Dimensions

18×14×16cm

scale

Weight

320g

solar_power

Panel

Mini Solar

light_mode

Sensors

4× LDRs

rotate_right

Motors

2× Servos

code

Languages

C++ / Arduino

What You'll Learn

Renewable energy, light sensor arrays, and closed-loop control systems.

solar_power

Renewable Energy

Solar cell principles, photovoltaic conversion, and energy harvesting concepts.

  • → Solar cell operation
  • → Energy conversion
  • → Efficiency factors
light_mode

Sensor Arrays

LDR characteristics, differential sensing, and 4-quadrant light detection.

  • → LDR resistance curves
  • → Differential reading
  • → Quadrant mapping
terminal

Control Systems

Closed-loop feedback, proportional control, and servo positioning algorithms.

  • → Feedback loops
  • → P-controller basics
  • → Servo positioning
eco

Sustainability

Climate science connections, green tech principles, and energy efficiency.

  • → Greenhouse effect
  • → Clean energy math
  • → Carbon footprint

What's In The Box

foundation

Wooden Base & Arm

×1 set (laser-cut)
solar_power

Mini Solar Panel

×1
light_mode

LDR Sensors

×4
rotate_right

Servo Motors

×2 (pan & tilt)
memory

Arduino Board

×1
developer_board

Sensor Shield

×1
cable

Wiring Kit

×1 set
build

Assembly Tools

×1 set
battery_charging_full

Battery Holder

×1
menu_book

Build Guide & Code

×1

Build Journey

Estimated total: 5-6 hours from unboxing to solar tracking

01

Unbox & Sort

Inspect solar panel, LDR sensors, and servos. ~20 min.

02

Build Frame

Assemble base, mount servos and solar panel arm. ~2 hours.

03

Wire & Code

Connect LDRs, program the tracking algorithm. ~2 hours.

04

Track the Sun!

Take it outside and watch it follow the sun autonomously.

school Curriculum & Standards

STEM Standards

  • ▸ Physics: Light, photovoltaics & energy
  • ▸ Technology: Sensors & feedback systems
  • ▸ Engineering: Closed-loop control design
  • ▸ Environmental Science: Renewables & climate

Suggested Lesson Plans

  • ▸ Week 1: Solar energy & photovoltaic science
  • ▸ Week 2: LDR sensors & analog reading
  • ▸ Week 3-4: Assembly & servo control
  • ▸ Week 5: Tracking algorithm & outdoor testing

Related Courses

  • ▸ First Steps in Robotics (Beginner, 6 weeks)
  • ▸ Green Tech & Sensors (Intermediate, 6 weeks)
View All Courses →

Related Kits

Water Dispenser

Smart Water Dispenser

Beginner • 4-5 hours • 30+ parts

$154.99
Anti-Aircraft Gun

Anti-Aircraft Gun

Intermediate • 5-7 hours • 40+ parts

$179.99
Robot Arm

Titan Arm 6-Axis

Intermediate • 8-10 hours • 60+ parts

$189.99

FAQ Protocol

Does the solar panel actually generate power?expand_more
Yes! The mini solar panel generates small amounts of real electrical energy. While it won't charge a phone, it's perfect for demonstrating photovoltaic principles and can power a small LED.
Does it work on cloudy days?expand_more
The LDR sensors can detect light even on cloudy days, so the tracker will still orient toward the brightest point. Performance is best under direct sunlight or with a flashlight indoors for demos.
Why is this the cheapest kit?expand_more
The Solar Tracker uses simple, cost-effective components (LDRs, servos) while delivering powerful learning outcomes. It's our best value-for-learning kit and ideal for classrooms with limited budgets.