Summary of A SOYUZ SPACE CLOCK REPLICA
This article describes a desk clock replica of the Soviet 774H Soyuz model by [David Whitty]. Unlike the original's ten circuit boards, this version uses an Arduino and GPS receiver. The build involves significant metalwork with modified Hammond aluminum enclosures and lead ballast for weight.
Parts used in the 774H Soyuz Digital Clock Replica:
- Arduino
- GPS receiver
- Hammond cast aluminum enclosures
- Lead ballast
- GPS patch antenna
- USB connector
If you like the retro look of old Soviet space hardware, then this replica of the model 774H Soyuz digital clock by [David Whitty] might be the perfect accessory for your desk. Forgoing the original stack of ten jam-packed circuit boards, [David] used an Arduino, a GPS receiver, and a handful of other common parts to create a convincing reproduction.
He also made some functional changes to make it better suited as an ordinary clock for us earthbound folk. If you want to take on this project yourself, be prepared for some real metalwork. No 3D printing filament was harmed in building this project. It’s based on a pair of heavily modified Hammond cast aluminum enclosures, with over 1 kg of lead ballast added to give it the appropriate heft of the original. The GPS patch antenna is cleverly hidden on the rear interface connector, but a discrete hole for a USB connector gives away the secret that this isn’t an original. The software (free for non-commercial use) and build notes are available on his GitHub repository.
We covered [Ken Shirriff]’s fascinating dive into the guts of a real Soyuz digital clock back in January. If old space hardware is your thing, you should definitely check out this teardown by [CuriousMarc] of the 653B, the 1960s-era electro-mechanical predecessor to the 774H. Thanks to [CuriousMarc] for bringing this project to our attention.
Source: A SOYUZ SPACE CLOCK REPLICA
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What components replace the original circuit boards?
The original stack of ten jam-packed circuit boards is replaced by an Arduino and a GPS receiver. -
How is the appropriate heft of the original achieved?
Over 1 kg of lead ballast is added to the heavily modified Hammond cast aluminum enclosures. -
Is 3D printing used in this project?
No, the project relies on real metalwork and no 3D printing filament was harmed. -
Where is the GPS patch antenna located?
The GPS patch antenna is cleverly hidden on the rear interface connector. -
What feature gives away that this is not an original clock?
A discrete hole for a USB connector reveals the secret that it is a reproduction. -
Can I access the software and build notes for this project?
Yes, the software (free for non-commercial use) and build notes are available on the creator's GitHub repository. -
What is the specific model number of the clock being replicated?
The project is a replica of the model 774H Soyuz digital clock.
