Using Claude to Control A Telescope Via ESP32

A new firmware called LUNA is now available, bringing natural language telescope control to affordable ESP32 boards. LUNA serves as a bridge between Claude AI and a wide range of astronomy mounts and software, using the Model Context Protocol to exchange structured commands and data. The result is a conversational workflow for pointing, focusing, and monitoring that keeps complexity low while expanding what a modest microcontroller can do in the field.

Using Claude to Control A Telescope Via ESP32

LUNA focuses on a straightforward idea. Ask Claude for an action and have the ESP32 handle the hardware side. Ask to point the mount to a galaxy, read temperature and humidity at the pier, or nudge the focuser inward by a set amount. Claude interprets the intent and LUNA translates it into the right control messages for the mount or accessory. This separation keeps language understanding in the assistant while leaving the time critical device communications to the ESP32.

At the core is an LX200 serial bridge over the Serial2 interface, which makes the firmware compatible with many GoTo mounts. LUNA also provides a browser user interface framework for building simple real time dashboards without a personal computer, giving quick access to status, controls, and sensor readouts. There is built in support for the DHT22 sensor to report temperature and humidity. A Lua scripting engine allows users to write small autonomous routines that run directly on the ESP32, enabling repeatable tasks during a session without outside supervision.

The Model Context Protocol, often abbreviated as MCP, is central to how LUNA interacts with Claude. MCP standardizes the way an assistant enumerates tools, passes parameters, and receives results. LUNA exposes a set of telescope and accessory tools through MCP. When a user asks for a target slew or a status check, Claude selects the proper tool and LUNA converts that call into compatible commands such as LX200, returning structured responses that the assistant can summarize clearly. This keeps the conversation grounded in actual device state.

Compatibility and Ecosystem

LUNA is designed to cooperate with common astronomy applications. It works alongside SkySafari, Stellarium, and NINA in familiar workflows. It can talk to OnStep and Temma2M based mounts, and an INDI focused edition is available for users who rely on the INDI protocol stack. The intention is not to replace existing software but to add a conversational layer that can simplify setup and routine operations. By acting as a bridge rather than a silo, the firmware aims to complement the tools astronomers already know.

Two builds are provided to address different needs. The Standard Edition is version 5.9.6 and targets the typical ESP32 development module with four megabytes of flash. The INDI Edition is version 6.9.3 and targets the ESP32 S3 N8R8 with eight megabytes of flash and eight megabytes of PSRAM. Both builds come with binaries for 9600 bps and 19200 bps serial rates, making it easier to match common mount defaults. The hardware cost remains modest, often in the range of five to ten dollars for a base ESP32 board.

Setup centers on connecting the ESP32 to the mount control port and joining it to the local Wi Fi network. Once online, LUNA exposes its MCP tools to Claude. A user can begin by asking for a target and LUNA will translate the request into a slew. During the run, the user can ask for local temperature and humidity if a DHT22 is connected. If focusing is motorized, a command to adjust steps inward or outward is handled locally on the ESP32. The browser interface can display live status without attaching a laptop.

Scripting and Autonomy

The Lua engine provides a path to automation that fits on the device. Users can compose short scripts to perform a set of checks and actions that repeat through a session, such as reading sensors, confirming tracking, and applying a small refocus after a defined interval. Scripts run on the ESP32, so a field setup can retain basic autonomy even when a network drops or a controlling device steps away. This makes the system practical for remote sheds and backyard piers alike.

Because LUNA speaks to real hardware, the project encourages careful testing indoors before heading into the night sky. The conversational approach makes control more accessible, yet it remains important for operators to confirm limits, park states, and cable management. The firmware focuses on translating clear commands and reflecting device state back to the assistant. That transparency helps users verify actions before and after a move. Keeping the serial speed aligned with mount expectations also reduces the chance of missed bytes during long sessions.

Who It Is For

LUNA is intended for hobbyists, club members, educators, and tinkerers who want to explore natural language control without purchasing dedicated controllers. It can also be useful to experienced users who would like a voice or chat layer on top of established tools. The learning curve is approachable for those who have flashed ESP32 boards before, and documentation guides new users through setup and common workflows. Since it is an ESP32 based solution, it runs quietly and can be powered from small field batteries.

This is an independently developed project that is made available to the community at no cost. The guiding goal is practical utility rather than flash. By embracing open standards and common mounts, LUNA lowers barriers for experimentation and invites contributions. Feedback from observers, educators, and makers is expected to shape future refinements, from additional sensors to broader protocol support. The firmware exists to make telescope control more approachable, so that more time can be spent on the sky rather than on menus.

Availability

Prebuilt binaries are offered for the supported ESP32 boards to reduce setup time. Flashing can be done with familiar tools, and users can choose the serial speed that matches their mount. After installation, most work occurs through the browser interface and through conversations with Claude. With its combination of MCP tooling, LX200 translation, INDI compatibility in the dedicated build, and on device scripting, LUNA provides a compact path to conversational astronomy that fits in the pocket and in the budget.