Automated Snow Crystal Photographing Stage
Capture Perfect Snow Crystal Images with an Automated Arduino Peltier Stage
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Snow crystals are fleeting, melting under breath or ambient heat. This advanced kit lets you construct a Peltier-cooled stage that holds crystals at -15°C while stepper motors position them precisely for macro photography. The system automates camera triggering, capturing the delicate symmetrical structure of each flake before it vanishes—ideal for physics projects, weather research, or artistic documentation of natural ice formations.
What You'll Build
A temperature-controlled imaging platform. The Peltier module chills a sample plate, the DS18B20 waterproof sensor maintains a steady -15°C, and two NEMA 17 steppers move the crystal in X and Y. An Arduino triggers your camera via relay at the exact moment the crystal is centred, giving you repeatable high-magnification shots of individual snow crystals.
What You'll Learn
- Closed-loop temperature regulation using DS18B20 sensor feedback and a Peltier module
- Micro-stepping motor control with A4988 drivers and a CNC Shield V3
- Synchronising hardware triggers with a camera shutter through a 5V relay
- Soldering and assembling a vibration-free thermal stage from PCB prototype boards
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | 1 |
| TEC1-12706 Peltier | 1 |
| DS18B20 Waterproof Sensor | 1 |
| NEMA 17 Stepper Motor | 2 |
| A4988 Stepper Driver | 2 |
| 5V Relay Module | 1 |
| CNC Shield V3 | 1 |
| 12V 5A Power Supply | 1 |
| 100nF Ceramic Capacitors | 10 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 2 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Designed for B.Tech ECE and physics students building final-year instrumentation projects, Smart India Hackathon teams developing weather analysis tools, and IIT/NIT/VIT/BITS researchers documenting snow crystal morphology. It also suits macro photographers exploring cryo-imaging and any maker who wants a precision thermal stage under their lens.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code to access the AI companion trained on this kit, with step-by-step troubleshooting. You can also reach our team via WhatsApp for direct guidance.
Can I use this stage for other frozen samples?
Yes, any small specimen up to 50 mm × 50 mm can be placed on the cooled plate. For biological samples, add extra insulation to prevent condensation.
Does the kit include a camera and lens?
No, you need your own DSLR or mirrorless camera with a macro lens. The kit provides the trigger relay and mounting instructions.
What ambient temperature is needed for -15°C cooling?
The Peltier reaches -15°C best in a room at 20–25°C. In warmer conditions, a small cooling fan on the hot side improves efficiency.
Peltier-cooled stage at -15°C + stepper XY positioner + camera trigger captures individual snow crystals.
What's in this kit
- Arduino Uno R3
- TEC1-12706 Peltier
- DS18B20 Waterproof
- NEMA 17 Stepper x2
- A4988 Driver x2
- 5V Relay Module
- CNC Shield V3
- 12V 5A PSU
- 100nF Caps x10
- PCB Prototype Board x2
- Soldering Iron
- Solder Wire
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items