This 1/144 scale model of a Space Shuttle is finely detailed, and it
has been cleverly engineered for accurate fitting together. Obviously,
its key feature is the open cargo bay, with all internal detail such as
the robot arm fully represented. Dragon has even included a generic
satellite payload to fill the compartment to add further interest and
give a sense of scale. This item adds interest to Dragon’s space series,
and it will sit nicely alongside other kits of older spacecraft already
released. Even though the Space Shuttles may have been retired by NASA,
Dragon’s kits go from strength to strength with this modern subject!
In Dragon’s space collection, there are multiple rocket types, as
well as lunar modules and command/service modules (CSM), covered by some
fantastic model kits. An enduring favorite amongst modelers is the
six-craft Space Shuttle fleet, and the latest kit, which shows a Space
Shuttle with an open cargo bay, will go some way to meeting this
insatiable demand. The typical payload for an orbiter was 22,700kg, and
it was carried in a cavernous cargo bay (measuring 18.3 x 4.6m) that
featured large opening doors along the length of the spacecraft. Such a
cargo bay feature was unique among spacecraft, allowing the Space
Shuttle to deploy large satellites (e.g. the Hubble Space Telescope) and
to also capture them for return to Earth. Up to five satellites could
be transported at once, and a 15m-long robot arm helped lift, release
and retrieve satellites in space.