Moebius Models' 1/55 Moon Bus Photo Feature
by Steve Causey
| Date of Review | October 2013 | Manufacturer | Moebius Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Moon Bus | Scale | 1/55 |
| Kit Number | 2001-1 | Primary Media | Styrene |
| Pros | Retooled and updated Aurora classic kit | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (USD) | $49.95 |
Build Review
This is my take on the iconic Moon Bus. I studied videos of the movie 2001 A Space Odyssey a few times and decided to paint the outside overall matte white (Tamiya fine white primer) and to add Pan Am livery as well. I used the TSDS decal sheet; my build was the alpha build for the TSDS Moon Bus decals. I decided to make my own cargo load and to add lights to an area that looked like headlights in the bow of the craft. Other builders have followed my lead since my build debuted so I guess a good idea is a good idea.
The kit goes together like a dream, I had built the Aurora version as a child and it was fun seeing an old friend again. I filled in the bottom rocket nozzles with thick white glue to avoid using the resin versions. The cabin lighting is an out of production JAI light kit using electroluminescent sheet. I needed to run power out of the hull, I had thought at first I could use a 9volt battery and hide it under the floor, but it turned out not to be deep enough to hide the battery.
The base was made from several castings of plaster, with hand sculpted terrain added. (Two weeks after I finished the base, I saw Hobby Lobby had lunar surface molds!) It figures…
I spent a month on this version and loved every day I spent. I thank the guys at Moebius for bringing an old friend home.