Spacecraft are vehicles designed to travel into space. They may be either manned or unmanned.
Spacecraft models can be constructed out of various materials. However, in order for them to withstand launch loads and the stresses of reentry into Earth orbit or another planet’s atmosphere, these materials must be strong and flexible enough.
Paper Models
With just stiff paper, scissors and glue a modeler can craft highly detailed spacecraft models. There are numerous sites dedicated to “card modelling”, offering patterns suitable for those of both novice and intermediate skill levels.
Delta 7 Studios has an online library with paper models available for downloading from Mercury and Gemini programs as well as advanced configurations that never flew. In addition, there is also an Apollo rocket collection as well as numerous fantasy/science fiction spacecraft.
Some websites provide free patterns for printing and building spacecraft models. One popular resource, Lower Hudson Valley Paper Model E-Gift Shop, provides plans for paper models of both SpaceX Starhopper and Burt Rutan’s SpaceShipTwo. Lego blocks also make for great tools for crafting models – for instance Aerospace Bricker offers plans to build space related kits with Lego blocks while there are many companies who specialize specifically in space related kits that you can purchase directly.
Scale Models
Models can range from single solid structures to detachable parts designed to simplify teaching the modules of an International Space Station module or rocket stages. Paper modeling is another popular form of modelling; using only stiff paper, scissors and glue they create intricate and beautiful models with ease – several websites on the web specialize in paper modelling but only some offer patterns related to space models.
1:35 scale models are widely used for plastic injection armoured fighting vehicle models as well as die-cast cars and ships, making them popular giveaways by airlines as advertisements.
Lego offers kits with models of spacecraft and vehicles made out of paper, as well as online plans for non-paper models like Boston University TERRIERS student satellite project’s nanorover kit (including an Amsat-like nanorover).
Detailed Models
Standing beside an impressive and lifelike model of a spacecraft can be nothing short of mind-boggling, inspiring both curiosity and ambition in those who witness it. Not only is the model itself visually impressive; its existence captures humanity’s thirst for the stars while sparking ambition among those who witness it.
Making models requires an expert eye in creating realistic reproductions; from painting with just the right shades to applying weathering effects that mimic space wear and decals and insignia with pinpoint accuracy – to ensure an amazing resemblance between real spacecraft and their replica counterparts. This process results in stunningly realistic replicas.
Proach Models has developed an accurate paper model of the Hubble Space Telescope after servicing mission 3B; this reflects its state and contains accurate representations of cryocoolers and handrails. Furthermore, Proach partnered with Vancouver BC’s HR Macmillan Space Centre to make an Apollo 11 Saturn V Rocket replica scale model to enable builders to better comprehend historical NASA missions while pushing forward innovation for decades to come.
Kits
Spacecraft models are fun to build and provide an excellent way to gain more insight into space travel history. There are kits of rocket models as well as highly detailed replicas of NASA’s historical spaceships available on the market. Building these kits provides a unique learning opportunity about space travel through their construction.
Some models can be assembled easily while others require special care and white glue for assembly. One such model that requires skilled craftsmanship to build is the laser-cut Keck Telescope SCIENCE KIT; once complete it will last years.
Revell, Airfix and Minicraft offer various 1/144 scale shuttle stack kits suitable for more complex models in 1/144 scale. Assembling is relatively straightforward; only Airfix Monogram versions feature too-thin representations of Command and Service modules in Block 1 detail type form compared with later models available from other companies; using aftermarket parts great improvements can be made to super detail your kit further. Those interested in replicating real life spacecraft may wish to check out Galileo Program which offers free models of their spacecraft that visited and landed on Asteroid Eros.