Horizon Models 1/72 Atlas-Agena Kit First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | September 2024 | Manufacturer | Horizon Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Atlas-Agena | Scale | 1/72 |
| Kit Number | 2006 | Primary Media | Styrene |
| Pros | Impressive kit engineering and options | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (USD) | $41.95 |
First Look
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As the space race continued, NASA had started launching satellites with sensor packages as well as planetary exploration vehicles using the USAF Atlas ICBM converted into a launch platform. One of those launch configurations featured the Agena upper stage. There were several configurations of the Agena over the years, two of which were used to serve as rendezvous targets for the Gemini spacecraft.
Horizon Models has returned with its sixth kit in its spacraft series, the Atlas-Agena. This kit provides two options for your launch gallery: the Atlas-Agena ADTA (that had jammed shroud halves that were partially open in orbit, resembling an angry alligator, and the Atlas-Agena ATV.
The kit is molded in gray styrene and presented on three parts trees (duplicates not shown). Among the features and options in this kit:
- Atlas booster
- Upper section of the Agena ATV/ADTV (remove a portion of the airframe to render the ADTV)
- Display base
The instructions are well-illustrated and provide clear directions to replicate either of the two subjects. Decals are printed by Microscale.
This kit is available from CultTVman Hobbyshop or directly from the manufacturer.
My sincere thanks to Horizon Models for this review sample!