The data has been moved to a proper github repo: https://github.com/nraynaud/sojourner/blob/main/
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February 1, 2026 16:19
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Notes on the mechanical design of the Sojourner rover
Author
Thank you, handy collection. I would like to build a replica and am surprised at the lack of documentation.
Author
thank you.
I'm moving this document to a proper github Repo: https://github.com/nraynaud/sojourner/tree/main
Moreover, I have started sharing my 3D model, but it's very far from complete, and I have not yet documented where I feel confident in the model and where I have completely imagined the inner working.
the F360 project it here : https://gmail2701309.autodesk360.com/g/projects/202601281043460231/data/dXJuOmFkc2sud2lwcHJvZDpmcy5mb2xkZXI6Y28uaUxZUkVjYWZUSHFaU1lDczFrQUdDdw==
it should be publicly visible
it lets me 'log in' using my account but I am unable to see the model either on the autodesk360 site nor within fusion hubs. Perhaps if you export an f3z file or step or similar I can open it offline, but I would love to join the hub and help with the CAD.
I am reading and compiling info as well about the electronics, materials, and dimensions. I also plan to request that someone at the Smithsonian takes square-on pictures of Marie Curie with a ruler or scale bar present. side, front, and top views would be extremely useful for more accurate CAD.
Author
Thank you for the report, let me rummage through the project settings and report back.
Author
I definitely goofed up. I made it public for the people in my hub, which is myself. Still looking for a way to make it public.
I'm a bit reluctant to just dump a file because it's divided into multiple files, and I'd like to use the comment system to explain what I invented and what I feel more confident is the reality.
Author
I added you to the poject, I'll need to make a single assembly to export the project in one fell swoop.
Thank you much, I am able to read the files now.
I've been interested in building my own Sojourner-alike, and don't mind cheating with the electronics (I don't intend to build an 8085 based brain but a similar or slightly more powerful microcontroller will do. I've also modeled a modern inexpensive 16mm geared brushed motor (16GA25) which can sometimes be found geared down to 10RPM at 6 or 12 volt. It is slightly smaller than a RE-16 from the looks of it, perhaps it could be disguised as one with a housing. An encoder would need to be fitted for proper odometry or servo control. I am fond of as5600 absolute encoders.
here's an interesting still from gearskeptics video
Author
yes, thank you, I have been stealing screengrabs from his video and corresponding with him by email.
I suggest you edit your prior message to remove your email to reduce the spam you receive, and continue the disucussion on the github repo I opened here: https://github.com/nraynaud/sojourner/blob/main/README.md .
I'll try to do a data dump in the repo today.
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GearSkeptic on Youtube has access to a rover wheel, here are the measurements he took:
posting here while I try to make time to edit the notes.
edit: I think there are some errors in the description, the cleats are very probably the same material as the tires, we see 2 spot welds very far appart for each cleat ; with the great temperature swings there would be a crazy amount of delamination. Moreover they seem to have the same "sheen" on all the pictures I could find, black is the passivation color of Stainless steel, and Bickler himself describes the cleats as "stainless" in his article.
Moreover, the rivets do not appear on some early wheel pictures, they seem to be a late addition to the project.