LEGO has partnered with NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) to release a detailed replica of the Hubble Space Telescope, commemorating its 35th anniversary. The set, number 11382, comprises 1,252 pieces and is available for $139.99 through Amazon and the LEGO Store.
This LEGO set is divided into three primary sections: the display stand, the rear instrument bay, and the forward telescope shaft. Building the stand involves unique Technic piece integrations to create a stable, angled support for the telescope. The base of the stand features three translucent printed pieces depicting iconic Hubble images: the Pillars of Creation, the Whirlpool Galaxy, and the Butterfly Nebula. A small plaque, unfortunately rendered as a sticker on a flat piece, provides key details about the Hubble, including its dimensions, weight, and launch dates.
During assembly, the instruction manual offers facts about the Hubble's history and scientific instruments, providing insight into its function and legacy. The telescope has captured over 1.7 million observations in its three decades of operation, producing significant astronomical imagery from low-earth orbit. A diagram within the manual illustrates the scientific instruments recreated in the LEGO model.
The construction of the larger, lower half of the telescope, which houses critical systems, proved to be a somewhat repetitive process due to its symmetrical nature. Many internal components are represented by simple pieces, with their purpose only becoming clear once the outer panels are attached. The manual includes a subtle visual cue, a single green piece on one side, to help builders orient these nearly identical sections correctly. One side panel of this section is designed to be removable, allowing for a view of the internal camera, mirrors, sensors, and baffle.
Building the upper shaft involves assembling four long, narrow outer panels. These sections also present a repetitive construction, primarily using rounded grey pieces. Attaching these panels requires care to avoid dislodging connected elements. An interesting feature of this section is the suspended secondary mirror, which clicks into place as the panels are added. These panels interlock satisfyingly, and a single removable panel here offers another glimpse into the telescope's internal components. The upper shaft concludes with an aperture door, complete with a functional hinge to open or close it, mirroring the real telescope.
Finishing touches include attaching the two communication antennas, which can be positioned in various orientations, and constructing the two large solar arrays. These arrays are composed of thin plastic sheets with printed solar panels, rather than stickers, and are articulated for adjustable positioning. The completed telescope body connects to the display stand via a central hole. However, the set's top-heavy design can result in slight instability on the stand if not stationary.
Despite some repetitive building phases and the abstract representation of certain internal components, the finished LEGO Hubble Space Telescope is an impressive display piece. Its accurate recreation of the iconic design makes it a recommended set for space enthusiasts. The model measures 12.5 inches high, 15 inches wide, and 15 inches deep, and is recommended for ages 18 and up.