A better model for the VLS rocket

I've been working on an updated model of the VLS rocket to go with the new Alcântara base.

The first stage rocket boosters have better textures and a more geometry detail. I worked out the fixation points of the boosters to the main rocket, and it looks great! Also, the pad structure was corrected to match the rocket.

The next step is to detail the other stages. Part of the work is done for the VS40 rocket, that shares identical hardware. But there are always differences. The fairing also needs some work to give it a less plastic impression.

Booster rocket

Pair of boosters

The upper stages are also under work. Here I'm using the new textures.

The complete VLS rocket stack.

A quick test render of the rocket on pad.

Detail of the first stage, boosters, and pad support structure.

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Orion cockpit layout

In preparation for my Constellation program add-on, I collected some images about Orion's cockpit panel layout. These are quite interesting and you can see how it is evolving. 2012 (NASA Systems Engineering Simulator) 2014 layout I assembled this view from a NASA video showing most parts of the panel and LCD displays. Resolution is good enough to read most of the labels. 2014 Mockup 2015 Mockup The 2015 mockup shows some diferences from the 2014 version. The design seems less monotonous and with a few less flip switches. Image sources: NASA

Apollos 18, 19 and 20 for AMSO

Clearing a large backlog of released realistic add-ons over the last two years. I'll start with the cancelled moon missions based on the Apollo AMSO add-on for Orbiter. Flowing the general outline of the available NASA planning documents I did Apollo 18, 19 and 20, complete with terrain, patches and EVAs. Vallis Schroteri & Apollo 18 This add-on features realistic terrain for the Vallis Schröteri area near the Aristarchus crater on the Moon. It is presented in a way that you have a relatively large flat area (Orbiter limitation) where you can land and drive. The area covered by terrain mesh is about 30x30km. Some surface features were placed to provide interesting destinations for EVAs, based on the actual geology of the region. The provided scenarios use AMSO to recreate the proposed Apollo 18 mission. They are generic and the orbital trajectories are not optimized regarding fuel or mission duration. Anyhow, I think I've remained within realistic paramete

Gemini B cockpit layout

The Gemini B was the military version of the Gemini spacecraft, adapted for use on the MOL (Manned Orbiting Laboratory) program. The general cockpit layout was similar, but many instruments were changed. I'm doing a 3D model of the cockpit, and as part of that I need to recreate the dashboard layout. For the normal Gemini we have great detailed instrument layouts, but for Gemini B we must work based on photos. I've identified as much labels as possible. Some probably have errors, but still I think you get the idea of the general operation. The main difference from the stock Gemini is that gauges and switches are more protected perhaps from accidental touching. Also you have controls for the MOL laboratory on the right hand panel. Left panel Center panel Bottom panel Right panel I'm working mainly based on two reference photos: (http://www.nro.gov) (unknown origin)

Orbiter Spaceport

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