> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://r2djp.gitbook.io/astropixels/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://r2djp.gitbook.io/astropixels/readme.md).

# Welcome

Welcome to the official documentation and user manual for the **AstroPixels** dome lighting system.

AstroPixels is a modern, all-in-one LED dome lighting kit engineered specifically for 1:1 scale Astromech droids (such as R2-D2). Powered by an onboard ESP32 microcontroller running the [ReelTwo](https://github.com/reeltwo/Reeltwo) dome library, AstroPixels replaces outdated single-color dome light sets with 269 individually addressable full-color WS2812B RGB LEDs.

Whether you are looking for a simple plug-and-play installation or seeking deep integration with control systems like Marcduino, I2C, or custom serial animations, this manual covers everything you need.

***

### Key Specifications

| Specification           | Value                                                                         |
| ----------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Microcontroller**     | ESP32 Dev Board (30-pin NodeMCU footprint)                                    |
| **Total LED Count**     | 269 Individually Addressable WS2812B RGB LEDs                                 |
| **Operating Voltage**   | 5.0V DC Regulated                                                             |
| **Current Consumption** | \~500–700mA typical, up to 1.5A peak during full-white/alarm effects          |
| **Supported Displays**  | 1x Rear Logic (RLD), 2x Front Logics (FLD), 2x PSIs, 3x HoloProjectors (HP)   |
| **Mechanical Fit**      | Direct fit for standard 1:1 scale R2-D2 bezels and frames (Teeces-compatible) |
| **Control Interfaces**  | I2C (Address `0x0A`), Hardware Serial2 (9600 baud Marcduino / JawaLite / LE)  |
| **Firmware Platform**   | Arduino / PlatformIO with ReelTwo dome engine                                 |

***

### Quick Navigation

* [Quickstart Guide](/astropixels/getting-started/quickstart.md) — Unbox, wire, and power up your kit in minutes.
* [Kit Contents](/astropixels/getting-started/kit_contents.md) — Detailed breakdown of included PCBs and wiring harnesses.
* [Power Requirements](/astropixels/getting-started/power.md) — Power supply recommendations, current budgets, and wiring options.
* [Installation & Mounting](/astropixels/getting-started/installation.md) — Physical mounting, 3D printed bezels, diffusers, and spacers.
* [Hardware & Pinout Overview](/astropixels/advanced-and-customisation/overview.md) — Motherboard architecture, GPIO assignments, and expansion headers.
* [Changing Colours](/astropixels/advanced-and-customisation/colours.md) — Customize palettes, hues, and animations for R2-D2, R2-KT, Imperial, and custom droids.
* [HoloProjectors](/astropixels/advanced-and-customisation/hp.md) — Configure HP twitch timings, colors, and sequences.
* [Serial & I2C Interfacing](/astropixels/advanced-and-customisation/interfacing.md) — Command reference for triggering effects on the fly.
* [Marcduino Integration](/astropixels/advanced-and-customisation/marcduino.md) — Connect and trigger dome lights directly from Marcduino controllers.
* [Web Firmware Flasher](https://dpoulson.github.io/Astropixels/firmware/) — Flash official firmware releases directly from your browser.
* [Interactive AI Support Assistant](https://dpoulson.github.io/Astropixels/assistant/) — Instant technical assistance for wiring, troubleshooting, and code.
* [ReelTwo C++ API Reference](/astropixels/advanced-and-customisation/reeltwo-api.md) — Detailed C++ classes, methods, constants, and comms architectures.
* [Troubleshooting](/astropixels/diagnostics-and-recovery/basics.md) — Step-by-step diagnostic guide for common issues.
* [FAQ](/astropixels/frequently-asked-questions/general.md) — Frequently asked questions regarding sizing, shipping, and design.