Back to photostream

spacewheel-1

WIP on space station model. This is just a test to check proportions, etc of the model. Central hub contains a rotating space dock on one side, and the reactor systems in the other. The outer wheels will be 2 decks deep rotating at about 2-3 rpm, but I'll have to work that out later for animations. The dock counter rotates to allow easy docking (the collar can extend 30 feet or so), and the larger hangar can be pressurised for construction work.

 

This is meant to be a permanent station, not something for 5-10 years then burnt up. Each arm is designed in 2 parts, each of which will fit in a current shuttle payload bay. The central section would need a heavy lift vehicle or lots of assembly, not sure which I will go for yet. The outer rings could be 8 inflatable sections which are then plated or coated and then fitted out. Total station is about 70 meters across right now, which could mean a crew of 50+ easily with resupply.

1,458 views
0 faves
4 comments
Uploaded on January 5, 2011
Taken on January 5, 2011