Lego NASA Discovery Space Shuttle: A Fresh Expression of How We Do Space Stuff

The Lego NASA Discovery Space Shuttle is a remarkable creation that embodies the innovative spirit of both NASA's iconic space program and the beloved toy brand. This intricate model, designed by Milan Madge, showcases the space shuttle's unique features, including its front and rear landing gear, as well as its ability to deploy a landing function through a hollow payload bay.

The attention to detail in this Lego set is nothing short of impressive, with Madge describing it as a 'fresh expression of how we do space stuff.' Building on previous Lego sets that featured the Saturn V moon rocket, International Space Station, and Apollo 11 lunar module, this model takes its inspiration from real-life NASA missions. In fact, Madge himself has said that he sees the shuttle as an opportunity to explore new ways of depicting space exploration through Lego.

One of the most striking aspects of the Lego NASA Discovery Space Shuttle is its ability to mimic the actual space shuttle's landing process. The set includes a landing function that allows players to recreate this critical phase of a space mission. Madge has described the process as a challenging one, requiring careful planning and execution to ensure that the landing gear functions correctly.

The Lego NASA Discovery Space Shuttle also pays homage to the real-life Hubble Space Telescope, which was visited by five shuttle crews between 1993 and 2010. These missions performed critical maintenance and upgrades that ensured the telescope's continued operation into the 2020s. The set even includes a nod to the STS-61 mission, which installed a corrective optics package on the telescope in December 1993.

In an interview, Madge emphasized the importance of planning and flexibility in both Lego building and real-life space missions. 'You get a group of people together to do a mission, and you do a lot of planning and you do write a plan,' she said. 'But plans are nothing, but planning is everything.' This sentiment highlights the parallels between Lego building and space exploration, where even the smallest mistakes can have significant consequences.

The Lego NASA Discovery Space Shuttle is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation, bringing together two beloved brands in a unique and captivating way. As Madge put it, 'You know full well that life doesn't always deliver the circumstances as you intended.' But with this set, fans of both Lego and space exploration can experience the thrill of discovery and exploration from the comfort of their own homes.

Targeted at adult fans of Lego, this set is a must-have for anyone who loves space exploration or is simply looking for a new challenge in building. With its intricate details and realistic features, the Lego NASA Discovery Space Shuttle is an out-of-this-world creation that's sure to inspire imagination and creativity in builders of all ages.

Lego nasa discovery space shuttle