NASA Orion orbiter

[micahrogers]

Hi all,
This should be an easy build, the plans were posted by Zathros in the resources section, but I downloaded them from the link he provided.
Link=http://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/files/2014_Orion_Desk_Model.pdf

The model is pdf format, and prints out on 8 sheets, 6 of which are parts, 1 is instructions and the last is the official NASA splash page.


my "New" printer is already messing up... the images have lines thru them that are not in the pdf files... Ohh well.

 

[micahrogers]

Looks like my trusty Nikon Coolpix L27 is showing it's age, the lens has a smudge....

 

[micahrogers]

Simple slot and tab construction, designed to be taped together. I am reinforcing the seams where needed, and adding glue instead of tape.
Construction starts with the Orion module itself, 3 part, Docking collar, Crew Module, and Crew Module fairing.

I added 4 strips to try and help keep the circular shape of the fairing,

 

[micahrogers]

working my Sunday away... this is such a simple kit....

the stand is supposed to represent the Orion in flight



and the Service Module is taking shape...

and just to show the overall size, I've sat the Crew Module, on the Service Module without all the greeblies


I might have to add this one to my list of models to try again with more skill and added greeblies.

 

[micahrogers]

More progress, I got the engine bell and umbilical shroud installed,


and the first 2 of 4 reaction control units added, and set it on the stand to see how it looks.

just 2 more reaction control modules to do and she'll be done.

 

[micahrogers]

and finished, a very simple model, and it suffers from it's simplicity. a good learners model, as it teaches how to make cylinders and cones. It also teaches how to fold correctly, and laminate sections and still have them flat and true.




simple enough for a beginner, and difficult enough to make me want to throw it in the garbage...
It has lots of room for improvement, and so do I.

 

[zathros]

Hey, that's how you learn.

 

[micahrogers]

Too true

 

[zathros]

I'm happy you made this model. It's a good kit to start on, printing extra sheets allows for some greebling, but you end up with a representation of a space capsule system that will be in use for decades to come.