Space Shuttle Orbiter 1: 200 Hasegawa 10730

Plastic model kit: Space Shuttle Orbiter 1:200 Hasegawa 10730

The plastic model kit: Space Shuttle Orbiter 1:200 Hasegawa 10730 is an excellent proposition for space enthusiasts and the history of space flights. This model represents the space shuttle, which was a key element of the Space Shuttle program conducted by NASA from 1981 to 2011. This program played a significant role in space exploration, enabling the transport of astronauts and cargo to low Earth orbit, as well as conducting operations in outer space.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:200
• Manufacturer: Hasegawa
• Catalog number: 10730

History of space shuttles: Six shuttles were built as part of the Space Shuttle program: Enterprise, Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour. All were constructed in Palmdale, California, by Rockwell International. The first of them, Enterprise, made its maiden flight in 1977 as a test glider, incapable of space flights. Columbia was the first shuttle capable of space flights and debuted in 1981.

The shuttles were unique due to their reusability. They could launch vertically and, after completing their missions, return to Earth as gliders. Unfortunately, the program was not without tragedy. In 1986, Challenger was destroyed shortly after launch, and in 2003, Columbia was lost during re-entry into the atmosphere.

End of the program and legacy: After the conclusion of the Space Shuttle program, the remaining three shuttles were placed on permanent display in various locations in the USA. Discovery went to the Udvar-Hazy Center at the Smithsonian, Endeavour to the California Science Center, and Atlantis to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. These shuttles, along with other artifacts from the program, represent an important educational and historical legacy.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. Assembly requires separately sold modeling tools (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.