Vostok carrier rocket with Vostok spacecraft 1:144 Zvezda 7501

Plastic model kit: Vostok launch vehicle with Vostok spacecraft 1:144 Zvezda 7501

The plastic model kit: Vostok launch vehicle with Vostok spacecraft 1:144 Zvezda 7501 is a unique proposition for enthusiasts of space exploration history and modeling. This detailed set allows you to build a replica of one of the most important rockets in the history of space exploration, which carried the first human into orbit – Yuri Gagarin.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:144
• Manufacturer: Zvezda
• Catalog number: 7501

History of the Vostok rocket:

The Vostok launch vehicle was developed in the 1950s under the leadership of the outstanding engineer Sergei Korolev. It was a modification of the military R-7 rocket, which gained a third stage, enabling it to launch both crewed spacecraft and satellites, as well as the first interplanetary stations "Luna".

On April 12, 1961, the Vostok rocket launched the Vostok 1 spacecraft with Yuri Gagarin on board, marking the first crewed spaceflight in human history. Vostok became a symbol of a breakthrough in space exploration, and Gagarin – an icon of courage and technological progress.

Design of the Vostok spacecraft:

The Vostok spacecraft consisted of two main modules: a spherical reentry module, which housed the cosmonaut and instruments, and a conical instrument module containing fuel and the propulsion system. In the event of reentry to Earth, the cosmonaut would exit the spacecraft at an altitude of about 7000 meters using a parachute, while the capsule landed separately.

The Vostok had limited maneuverability after separation from the propulsion system, which required protection of the capsule from heat during atmospheric entry from all sides. The spherical design ensured even heat distribution, and the heavy equipment inside the capsule was arranged to maximize the chances of the cosmonaut's survival during overloads.

Historical significance:

The Vostok program included six crewed spaceflights from 1961 to 1963, after which modified Vostok spacecraft, known as Voskhod, were launched. In the late 1960s, the Vostok program was replaced by Soyuz spacecraft, which are still in use today.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools are needed (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.