Tellurium

First, I researched the orbit periods and positions of the moon and earth around the sun, and made a mathematical simplifaction (first with Python, and then Excel) that would allow me to mechanically model their orbits using whole number ratios (necessary for gears) with maximum precision and practicality. With this model, I hand drafted a clockwork mechanism using a gear train, arm, and an internal gear and planet gear, that could visually model the relative positions of the sun earth and moon with a calclated 99% precision.

Next, I designed the device using Fusion-360. I generated the gears with a custom python script for Fusion-360, and also designed all of the structural and aesthetic parts on Fusion-360. I included the labels corresponding to each month on the rim of the device so that the positions of the celestial objects can be seen with correspondence to the yearly calendar.

Finally, I laser-cutted all of the parts from plywood, assembled the device, and calibrated it with the current position of the sun, earth and moon. I also added beautiful colored rocks representing each satelite. The device worked smoothly and elegantly.