Abstract: Disclosed are a linear drive apparatus and a method of controlling and using same for solar-energy tracking, the apparatus comprising an outer tube (1) and a sealing end cap (2) provided at the end of the outer tube (1), wherein a screw (3) is provided in the outer tube (1), one end of the screw (3) is connected to a drive mechanism, a drive nut (4) is provided on the ball screw (1) in a threaded fit therewith, an extension rod (5) is provided between the outer tube (1) and the screw (3), one end of the extension rod (5) is connected to the drive nut (4) and the other end thereof passes through the sealing end cap (2), a sealing assembly is provided between the extension rod (5) and the sealing end cap (2), and a waterproof and oil-proof ventilation stopper (6) is provided on the outer tube (1).