Interface · build

A PyPortal turned into a desktop window on the galaxy

Bob Hammellon Hackster.io

A PyPortal scrolls through some of the largest images of the universe, turning a small desk display into a window on deep space.

Can I build this?Beginner · AI 5/5 · $55–70

Difficulty: Beginner
AI-buildability: 5/5
Time: An evening
Cost: $55–70

Tools

computer with USB cable

Starter prompt

Based on "A PyPortal turned into a desktop window on the galaxy" on Afterware: https://afterware.xyz/p/a-pyportal-turned-into-a-desktop-window-on-the-galaxy

Write CircuitPython code for an Adafruit PyPortal that downloads a large space image from a URL, displays it on the 320x240 screen, and slowly scrolls it left and right in a loop. Load each image from SD card or internet and handle WiFi reconnects. Keep memory use low by drawing in tiles.

Estimates based on the original write-up. How AI-buildability is scored. Building with an AI assistant? Connect it to Afterware (free MCP server).

Story

Bob Hammell's PyPortal Galaxy Viewer pans across some of the biggest images of the universe on the board's built-in color screen. The project is aimed at putting the vastness of space on your desk.

The source is a short project blurb, so the build details (wiring, enclosure, image pipeline) aren't documented here. What's clear is the concept: a cheap Adafruit PyPortal as a dedicated, always-on space viewer.

It's worth a look if you want a low-effort desk display. The PyPortal already has a screen, Wi-Fi and a CircuitPython environment, so the hard part is picking the imagery and writing the scroll.