Skylab launch and orbital models

Hi,

I have created this printable 3D model of Skylab. Skylab is the first US space station. It was launched in May 14th 1973 on a Saturn V launch rocket by NASA. The space lab was constructed out of a modified rocket stage and housed an orbital workshop, a lot of research instruments, a solar observatory, an airlock module and a docking station.

During the launch the station was damaged, loosing its shielding on the workshop and one of its main solar panels. Three manned missions to Skylab were executed, on 25th of May, July 28th and November the 16th of 1973. The first mission undertook repairs including the deployment of a new sun screen shield, repairing and deploying the remaining main solar panel.

After the three missions, Skylab was left orbiting in space and planned to be pushed to a higher orbit by the first space shuttle. However, delays of the shuttle program and increased solar activity resulted into an uncontrolled entry of Skylab into earths atmosphere. Parts of Skylab have crashed into Australia where they are still exhibited.
See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skylab for more information on Skylab.

Three different versions of Skylab can be created from this 3D model:

• the launch version
• the orbital version as designed
• the orbital as achieved version

The model has been designed using Fusion 360. The scale is 1:100. It was printed using an Ultimaker Original+ 3D printer. I used Colorfabb Economy PLA black and white and some transparant PLA. Print settings used: 200 dC nozzle temp, 60 dC heated bed and 60 mm/s print speed. After printing I painted the model using Revell paint.

The STLs are located in the zip file “Module STLs.zip”. The three separate big STLs uploaded give an impression of the combined result, i.e. they are not intended for 3D printing. An elaborate instruction manual is available containing a lot of photos, including how to print and paint details. It also explains which modules to combine for a specific version.

For an impression of the models see https://youtu.be/igX4LoK7fMo

I had a lot of fun creating and printing this model, which took quite some effort and time. I hope you enjoy printing and assembling the model. Looking forward to see the result.

Have a lot of 3D printing fun!

Marco3D