NOTE: This review was written before the release of the 10283-1 NASA Discovery Space Shuttle. Contents: Introduction It's mostly very enjoyable to assemble, despite those app quibbles. It's only really the end sequence that becomes frustrating, but it's worth it when you're so close to the finish line. If you're a big space fan, you'll particularly appreciate this. However, anyone who fancies something different from the usual Lego way of doing things will like what's here. Other sets to consider

LEGO Set 8480-1 Space Shuttle (1996 Technic) | Rebrickable

There are 3 parts that play a key role here: 6542a Technic Gear 16 Tooth with Clutch, 6538b Technic Axle Connector Ridged and 6539 Technic Driving Ring 2L. The clutch gears have a round hole instead of an axle hole, so they can spin freely over an axle. When the axle is spinning, the clutch gears don't. The driving ring can slide over the axle connector, 'catching/clutching' one of the clutch gears, making it spin along with the axle, activating any drivetrain that is connected to the clutch gear. This way, you can turn drivetrains on and off, depending on which function you want to use.Engino also offers the London Eye in this range with a motorized engine. It's pricier but it looks suitably captivating for fans of London tourist locations.

Lego offers set with new space shuttle Discovery and - CNN Lego offers set with new space shuttle Discovery and - CNN

In fact, it’s such a wonderful design that had the LEGO Group decided to release this separately, it would no doubt garner huge praise. As it is, this is just a small part of this set, and the fact there is a gigantic Space Shuttle to build next makes for a very exciting prospect.I've added another gif to the Build section, which shows the FOS system working in the Space Shuttle. Gear Shifters The focus is clearly on the functions and outline of the shape. The signature contours are combined with only hatched areas (wings, ribbed hatches), no panels in this time.

LEGO NASA 10283 Space Shuttle Discovery Set for Adults

The build actually begins with the construction of the Hubble Telescope, arguably one of the most important scientific instruments ever created by man, and it is a stunning rendition. Perhaps it’s the building techniques utilised, or maybe it’s the subject matter itself, but everything about the model feels like it has a very precise and measured design. From the offset Technic pins used for the telescope’s angled stand to the intricate design created by the yellow 1×1 tap pieces, every stage creates the feeling of building a scientific instrument. It's hard to believe there once was a time, where we didn't have gear shifters. These are now so common-place in the Technic universe, that many sets wouldn't be possible without them. The Space Shuttle is the 2nd set to feature this system, after the 8880-1 Technic Super Car (next Classic Review?).At first, I was afraid the set wouldn't hold up to today's standards. How much of the epic-ness of the set is just my nostalgia talking? Especially after reviewing the 8485-1 Control Centre II, which is a good set, but in functions a bit dated, I was preparing for some let-down. Besides being the largest set I've ever built at the time, there were a couple of other things in this set that were a first for me. FOS The front and rear gears are connected to one another through a large sub-assembly that runs the entire length of the hull. Pushing into the rear of the Shuttle will cause the landing gear to retract with a beautifully smooth motion. It may have been one of the hardest things to get right, but the designers can be proud of the finished result.