Columbia has
always been listed as my favourite shuttle,
known as OV-102 (Orbiter Vehicle 102) it was the first shuttle to fly
into space and represent an important step into future space vehicle designs for
NASA.
It became
famous and a well known space shuttle worldwide after its debut flight as STS-1.
The model here
is from the 1/144 Airfix kit and still available from major hobby shops.
There is no
need to describe about this kit in detail, many articles and forums have already
been written about it. The Airfix
shuttle is considered the best one around.
Click on
images below to see larger images
This model
(Orbiter) is a leftover from a previous model I have. It was rebuilt again
without the External Tank & SRB Boosters that was included in Airfix shuttle
kit.
I wanted to
depict one of my shuttle in landing so I constructed the landing gears with
assorted spares from a Minicraft and Revell shuttle kits, particularly the
wheels & landing struts came from them.
Real Space
Models (RSM), self created decals and resin engine nozzles were used to make the
model look convincing and accurate.
After going
final sanding pep, I sprayed the required colors on the shuttle.
Final dull coat
was airbrushed after decals & subtle weathering applied.
This landing
diorama at Edwards is modeled as Mission STS-2, the second flight of Columbia
and landing on 14th November, 1981
Space Shuttle
Columbia sudden and unexpected tragic loss upon re-entry to earth on
01st
Feb 2003 in mission STS-107 shocked the world including myself.
I was
devastated by this event and could not believe Columbia was the next shuttle
lost again after Challenger.
Anyway, I
dedicate this model as a memory to all who flew OV-102 historically and the
seven crew who perished with her...lost forever but not forgotten.
Thanks for
viewing…..
George
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