Space and space exploration is also a very popular subject when it comes to LEGO creations. Valerie Roche and Matthew Nolan have designed a collection of SpaceX vehicles and put it on LEGO’s crowd-sourcing platform Ideas, where it’s already well on its way towards the needed 10,000 supporters. One of the coolest things about this project is that the designers have received input from people working on the real SpaceX program to help make the models even more accurate.
When NASA announced the end of the space shuttle program, a lot of people started to wonder what was next for humanity’s space exploration future. Entrepreneur Elon Musk did more than wonder, however. In 2002, he founded Space Exploration Technologies Corp, or SpaceX as it is more commonly known. Ever since that day, the public has been thrilled to watch successful launch after launch of the next generation of space-faring vehicles and projects.
Falcon 9
The Falcon 9 is the latest version of the reusable rocket, which has made several successful launches and recoveries since its first launch in 2010. The Falcon 9 model can be configured for both launch and landing.
Falcon Heavy
The Falcon Heavy is designed to carry a heavier payload, as the name suggests, and is bolstered by two additional boosters that are capable of landing after use. The Falcon Heavy model includes, as a bonus, the instantly iconic red Tesla Roadster and Space Man.
Dragon
The Dragon was originally designed for human passengers, but so far, has only been used to carry smaller payloads like satellites, and supplies for the International Space Station. The LEGO model comes with many configurations, including an expanded cargo area, deployed solar panels, and re-entry parachutes.
TEL
Both the Falcon and the Falcon Heavy can be transported to the launchpad on the TEL, or Transporter, Erector, Launcher. The TEL model can be configured for transport, as well as for launch.
Even as it crosses the threshold to 10,000 votes on LEGO Ideas, the project has a long journey ahead to become an official set, needing to go through LEGO approval, design feasibility testing, and of course, licensing. However, if this project gets selected to become an official set, it will make a great companion to the Saturn V set for any space exploration enthusiast.
If you like SpaceX, check out some of the other LEGO creations featured on TBB:
Space X Falcon 9 landing by Max Schellenberg
Microscale SpaceX Falcon booster landing by Curt Quarquesso