Dawn Spacecraft

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Launched in 2007, Dawn's mission is to uncover the secrets of the solar system's early history by meticulously examining two massive protoplanets that have survived intact since their formation, Ceres and Vesta. Print out your own scale model, then blast off into the solar system. Don't forget to bring xenon propellant - it's not included! This project is based on NASA/JPL's 3D model from http://nasa3d.arc.nasa.gov/detail/jpl-vtad-dawn. Here's a photo of our completed model in the gallery, printed at double scale for added detail. To build your very own Dawn spacecraft, follow these easy steps: Print one body, instrument panel, antenna, and main engine ring. Print three ion engines to propel your spacecraft through space. Don't forget to print two solar panel booms to harness the sun's energy! You'll also need ten solar panels - or get creative with actual solar panels or fabricate them from carbon fiber sheets for extra credit. Once you have all your parts, glue them together as shown in the illustration and watch your spacecraft come to life!