by mmahlin

Space Shuttle - Laser cut
(Not for commercial use)

This is a 1/153rd scale (largest I could make in the laser cutter!) Space Shuttle model assembled from laser cut flat parts. The model contains an Orbiter (you can etch decals onto the wings and vertical stabilizer), an External Tank, Solid Rocket Boosters, and a Base reminiscent of the Orbiter Service Masts. Everything fits together like a puzzle and just like a puzzle I have no assembly instructions. You can always refer to the .STL files for guidance!

Material:
Space Shuttle is 0.093 in. thick acrylic (about 2.36 mm)
Quantity -- I used 18 in. by 12 in sheets, I haven't optimize the provided sheets, but you will require about 8 sheets. (Might be able to make it with 6 or 7, did I mention I drew this 6 years ago?)

Base is               0.25 in. thick acrylic

Parts to cut:
Each sheet was setup for the laser cutter I was using. but the parts can be reorganized. Cut every part at least once on the following sheets, and keep the parts separate for ease of assembly.

1x Orbiter Sheet 1 v3 (I think I just added mounting parts with the version increments)
1x Orbiter Sheet 2

1x External Tank Sheet 1 (This is a corn cob)
1x External Tank Sheet 2

2x SRB Sheet 1 (watch out for the pointy bits)
2x SRB Sheet 2

1x Base Sheet 1 (There is only 1... add any dedication or the "SPACE SHUTTLE 1/153rd Scale" Text here to be like me!)

You should now have over one hundred parts. I think it is near 170 parts, not the worst puzzle.

Assembly:
Use non-fogging acrylic glue/cement
(I used CA glue, which is ok if you are fine with fogging.)
Parts should fit together with enough clearance to rattle.
The shuttle wings serve as an integration plate.
External Tank has a top and bottom cap
SRB base has a cap, but top needs to be glued.
Hang Orbiter from 8th ring from top of the External Tank.
Rest 8th ring from top of external tank on 4th ring from top tab of SRBs.
Slide Orbiter into Base as a Unit.

Please share your makes here! Let me know how you enjoyed this build. I can change things, but I have no plans to revise.