XV2 Orbit Jet
from "Rocky Jones - Space Ranger" (1953-1954)
About the Design
"Rocky Jones - Space Ranger," which ran in syndication from 1953-1954, was one of the first generation of sci-fi series produced for TV, a group that included "Captain Video" (1949-1955), "Space Patrol" (1950-1955) and "Tom Corbett, Space Cadet" (1950-1955). Although they only produced 39 episodes, the creators of "Rocky Jones" had the foresight to produce their show on film rather than broadcast it live. This allowed them to offer better-than-average special effects, and also allowed the show to run on local stations long after production ceased. Several 30-minute-long episodes were edited together and broadcast as "TV movies."
The show's centerpiece was the XV2 "Orbit Jet" -- and later the identical XV3 "Silver Moon." Both were chemical rocket-powered "tail sitters" inspired by the German V-2 rockets that had ushered in the age of spaceflight just years earlier. The Orbit Jet was distinguished by its swallow-like wings and hyper-extended needle nose. |
Scale: 1:288
Initial Release: 2017 Medium: Resin Kit Rarity: 2 About the Kit
The Orbit Jet was #6 in Fantastic Plastic's 1:288 "Classic Rocketships" series. Standing about seven inches tall, the rocket was scaled off several sources, including screen shot measurements contributed by Mike McMurtrey. The kit was designed in CAD by Scott Lowther, cast by Ravenstar Studios, and included a moonscape display stand by BLAP! Models.
The kit was released in May 2017. This model was built from an original issue. |