DSP Satellite Build

[Yorokobi]

I've been developing a model of a Defense Support Program satellite - the bigger variety. The project has been sitting idle a while and I wanted to take it out and dust it off. It doesn't lack much and it'll be finished in approximately 1/48th scale.

I'll try to have build pictures soon.

 

[Zathros]

This looks very interesting! Any background info would be highly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[RocketmanTan]

Wow, looks great! I've always been interested in spy satellites and the like. Can't wait to see more!

 

[Yorokobi]

Reference Info

Aha, of course, 'what the heck is it?'.

I prefer to consult the Great Wiki, who has the best description around.

One can search on 'DSP Satellite' or go here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defense_Support_Program

This model represents the later versions - DSP-I, which starts with bird #14. This design has been superseded by the SBIRS satellites.

 

[Yorokobi]

I'll be creating the IUS as well, so that it can be built in launch or deployed versions. Should go well with Thorsten's 1/48th Shuttle.

 

[Yorokobi]

More Pics

I've made some progress, between work and a nasty cold which made progress difficult.

 

[Retired_for_now]

There's a simple IUS included with the Magellan Venus space probe over at the Lower Hudson Valley Challenger Center (jlesie48.com - in the post-Apollo models). Might be of use.

Interesting project.

Yogi

 

[Zathros]

Great start Jtalie! I look forward to the final outcome.

 

[inky]

This is looking great, I to am looking forward to the final outcome.

 

[Yorokobi]

More soon

Thanks - that internal support needed some tweaking

As for the IUS - I've been contemplating how to do the ribs. I have the shapes drawn (I don't often need to unfold things and work out the shapes mathematically.

This may be small enough to just paint them on: building would be simplified a great deal.

Take a look at my Tiros at nielspapermodels.com and see what I mean. That's a big model which needs the bottom supports. But the sensors and anti-spin systems are just drawn on and look fine. I'd have to double the size before I'd consider any extra parts.

Thanks again. This will look even better when I start adding the panel wings on the bottom.

 

[Yorokobi]

Data Bus Installation

Starting to look like a model.

Also notice, the body tube in the back is the fit testing on an X-17 model. More on that later.

 

[Zathros]

Just love it, keep it up. Many are following, even if they don't post!

 

[Yorokobi]

Progess

Sorry for the lack of posts - work has been busy for a long time and during this build I realized I needed to redesign a couple of the parts on this model and create some internal support.

 

[Zathros]

It happens to all of us, it's called life.