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MsRowdyRedhead
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« on: September 17, 2009, 02:31:20 am » |
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LEGO 493 Space Command Center
Year released:1978
Pieces:189
Minifigs:4
This is the large base for the fledgling LEGOLAND Space series. The main model is a blue box on stilts that serves as the command and control center for the astronauts. Numerous antennae and dishes line the roof. The interior is lined with computers. There are 6 at one station alone! The building sits on a special gray base plate that has a crater ridge running along two sides. A moon rover and a mobile computer station round out the set and fit under the an attached car port.
This set is among the first to be successfully designed at mini-fig scale. The building has three walls so that the builder can easily get at minifigs in the interior. Despite only having three closed sides, the structure is still essentially a box. Opening the model on two sides would improve the playset circulation. The 1x construction of the walls is also a result of the minifig scale. 2x construction is more versatile and stable, but the dimensions of the minifig demand a 1x base.
The set is a good start for the space theme, due mainly to the 7 computers and huge monitor!
The minifigs are cool, and it's interesting how the instructions suggest slinging the air tank over the back of the swivel chairs. But if the minifigs are being so casual, why do they keep their helmets on?
The two vehicles add interest and give the minifigs something to do other than command space. I'd say they add activity, but with all the walkee-talkees it seems all they do is talk. The small rover is a simple design, the larger vehicle is more interesting, if more confusing.
The main model has some nice innovations which help set it apart from earlier models. The building is raised off the baseplate by the tail fins. This is a nice alternative use of such a specialized piece and gives the space set a futuristic, high modern feel. The roof is composed of the two trans-yellow plates. Besides looking cool, the transparent plates allow light into the interior of the model.
The set exemplifies the non-violent nature of the LEGO toy line. It depicts peaceful space exploration and stresses cooperation and communication.   
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Kritzelei
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« Reply #1 on: September 19, 2009, 01:14:45 am » |
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Wow... you've got to love those chairs on the Space Station.
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I'm back. Probably not for long, as I've got school stuff to attend to, and I'll probably want to get a job at some point (hopefully self-employed). But nice to see you all again anyway.
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