Luna from "Destination Moon" (1950)

SCALE: Unknown

INITIAL RELEASE: 1980s

MEDIUM: Resin

RARITY: (3)

ABOUT THE DESIGN

ABOUT THE KIT

Purportedly, science-fiction novelist and screenplay co-writer Robert Heinlein originally wanted his Luna moon rocket to be a scientifically plausible multi-stage vehicle.  But his producers nixed the idea, doubting the general public's ability to grasp such an "esoteric" concept.  Instead, they opted for this classic single-stage "winged ogive" design created by Ernst Fegte based on an earlier concept developed by the film's "science advisor," celebrated space artist Chesley Bonestall.  Based heavily on Germany's V-2 rocket, the result was the first of the classic 50's-era "rocketships," its influence subsequently felt in everything from TV spaceships like the Orbit Jet from "Rocky Jones - Space Ranger" to the Hugo Award trophy, first bestowed on science-fiction writers in 1953.

The Luna was one of the first resin sci-fi kits produced by Lunar Models in the mid-1980s.  Early versions came with the rocket only.  Subsequent releases included an exterior ladder and cratered lunar base.

This kit is an original 1980's-era release.

Original Box Art