X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle

X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle

cults3d

The X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV) is an iconic unmanned vehicle used to test a variety of secretive technologies and to conduct different sort of experiments in orbit. Reaching the orbit via Atlas V and Falcon 9 launchers, since its first mission in 2010 this reusable robotic spaceplane has scored over 2862 days in orbit with missions still ongoing. Capable of returning to the Earth landing autonomously, capability only achieved before by the “Soviet Shuttle” Buran, the X-37B populates the minds of space enthusiasts regarding its missions, applications and general purpose. The model was designed using the public references available in the specialised media and publications. It can be assembled in two configurations, landing gears up or down. One great advantage of the design of its 45 parts is that it allows the printing using the respective predominant colours, black/graphite, light grey and white but one is always welcome to add more details with minor post-print processing. It can be assembled in two versions, i.e., landing gears up or down, so why not print both? ;) The scale of approximately 1/42 is a good trade-off between printing time, size and details, requiring a regular 200X200 mm printing bed and a standard 0.4 mm nozzle. At its original scale, the final model has around 110 mm of wingspan and 200 mm length. Any scale larger than 1/42 is compatible and will certainly enhance the details of the model. For smaller scales it is recommended to use smaller nozzles (0.3 mm and 0.2 mm ). The tolerances are well within 0.2 to 0.5 mm so just minor sanding and filling will be required if you have a tuned printer. The assembly process is self-intuitive and does not require any special tools other than glue, files and sandpaper for the finishing. A detailed PDF file presents the identification of parts general instructions where it is needed. If you are looking to expand your space collection, this is an unique and original model that will provide you with a great experience from printing to assembly, while you keep wondering what is inside that mysterious payload bay. If you have any feedback, questions, suggestions or just want to share the results of your print feel free to contact me. Cheers!

Download Model from cults3d

With this file you will be able to print X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle with your 3D printer. Click on the button and save the file on your computer to work, edit or customize your design. You can also find more 3D designs for printers on X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle.