Flying Saucer

thingiverse

A flash of inspiration struck me, and I suddenly yearned for a flying saucer. Not just any flying saucer, mind you – a small one would be perfect. A large one would be nice too, but I don't have the space to park it. This sudden urge to design and build a compact flying saucer likely resulted from spending too much time 3D printing various sci-fi projects alongside running stop motion animation workshops as part of my contract developing STEMM programs for local libraries. **About My Flying Saucer** This two-seater has limited cargo capacity, but it boasts the latest in styling! Take a look at that sleek wrap-around control panel featuring a fully digital system management display inset into an expertly curved dash that contrasts beautifully with the blocky structure used elsewhere. Getting down to business, the perimeter is punctuated by five sensor ports equipped with the latest sensors for detecting various things. The tail end is also fitted with two large and retro-styled thrusters for boosting the vehicle at a worryingly reckless speed. To make any flying saucer levitate and perform spatial jumps, it requires a *Spatchcock Flange*. This little vessel features a fully external *Spatchcock Flange*, allowing gravitational distortion to achieve a uniform enclosure of the ship. **Other Details** The .pdf contains more information that might help you assemble the flying saucer and direct you to other relevant resources such as [manufacturing your own dome](http://www.techmonkeybusiness.com/vacuum-formed-thin-plastic-domes.html). The small side ports can be removed to allow a support stick to be installed if you're planning a special effects or stop motion shoot. When it comes to printing, you won't need support for anything. The biggest challenge is finding the right dome for the canopy. I suggest finding a suitable dome and scaling the model to fit. The one pictured was vacuum formed over a polystyrene ball – in hindsight, using a polystyrene ball wasn't the best choice because it produces a slightly cellular surface and heat disrupts the surface of the ball. This means it's a one-shot attempt. If you have a plastic ball handy that's about 115-120mm in diameter, give that a try. The inspiration for my design was primarily the outrageously messy Petey and Jaydee animated shorts. Other than that, it just looks like a real flying saucer! Have fun. **Update**: Check out DeltaFoxtrot's build on Thingiverse. Their dome was purchased from Aliexpress, and they scaled the model to fit. This is a far tidier solution than my vacuum forming method.