When it comes to their more adult-oriented models, Lego really knocked it out of the park with their Saturn V rocket model. Within the constraints of the universe of Lego parts, the one-foot-tall model is incredibly detailed, and thousands of space fans eagerly grabbed the kit when it came out.
But a rocket without a launch pad is just a bit sad, and that’s why [Mark Howe] invented this animatronic Saturn V launch pad and portal for its rocket model. The level of detail in the launch pad perfectly complements the features of the Saturn V model, highlighting exactly what it took to operate the crew and missile after it rolled out to the platform. As you can imagine, heavy use of 3D printed parts was key to getting the look just right and creating parts that actually move.
When it’s time for a launch, the swinging control arm and hammerhead crane under servo control swing out of the way, while the Arduino embedded in the base plays authentic countdown audio. The crew’s catwalk swings away, the engines light up, and the service arms swing back. Then for the pièce de résistance, Saturn V slowly begins to ascend from the path on five columns of flame. [Mark] uses a trio of steppers that drive linear actuators to lift the model; the flame effect is cleverly provided by WS2812’s strings in five clear plastic tubes. We must say it took some guts to put the precious 1969 model on such a lift, but the effect was well worth the risk.
This project has a great appeal and is clearly a labor of love and a great tribute to the many successes of the Apollo program. We have a ton of other Apollo era hacks on our pages, including a replica DSKY, a rejuvenated AGC, and a look behind the big signs of mission control.