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Here is my model of NASA's
collaboration with the European Space Agency to build a true ATO (Aircaft-To-Orbit).
Based on an old Mirage III airframe, NASA added additional tankage, reaction
control system, thermal protection system, new variable inlets for the
air-breathing engine ("borrowed" from a disused Mig-23) and a new
cockpit. The ESA (who supplied the original airframe) added the rocket engine
and associated upper body, plus replumbed and strengthened the wing structure.
The ground trolley/launch cradle was a simple structure comprosing a sturdy
frame and undercarriage, with two rocket engines for added boost on take-off.
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I built this model a
few years ago for our model club's yearly "Mongrel Model" competition.
As with previous entries I have built, this was started and finished in one
afternoon of frantic model building - painting and decalling included! (Decals
going on to quite wet paint - not the preferred technique of my fellow ARCers, I
am sure!
I started with a horrible 1/72
Pioneer Mirage III, then added various scraps of plastic for the reaction
control system. Devotees of my Scaledown range will see a good use for the
undersize Academy 1/48 F-111 fuel tanks, these form the basis for the tanks and
upper fuselage of the spaceplane. Not to be left out, the EF-111A canoe fairings
(several kits!) went to form the launch platform, as did a 1/72 Shuttle
undercarriage, Twin Otter skis, Apollo Saturn V engines, and many spare decals.
Stephen
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