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Lego Technic NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle – LRV Set
Lego is preparing to release a meticulously detailed model of the original electric buggy driven by NASA’s last three Apollo crews during their exploration of the moon. The new Lego Technic “NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle – LRV” set is scheduled to hit Lego stores on August 1.
Model Description
This Lego Technic set is designed for adults and features a displayable model of the lunar rover module that was carried by the Apollo 17 crew to the moon. Additionally, the set includes three equipment sets that can be attached to the model for added realism and detail.
This set, numbered 42182, consists of 1,913 pieces and can be pre-ordered from Lego’s online shop for $219.99 (€219.99 or £189.99).
Following the success of Lego’s previously released Saturn V rocket and Apollo 11 lunar module sets, the LRV set is a natural continuation of Lego’s homage to space exploration.
Historical Context
After landing two crews on the moon in 1969, NASA recognized the need to extend the distance astronauts could travel to explore more of the lunar surface. In collaboration with Boeing, GM, and Goodyear, NASA developed the Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) to meet this requirement.
The LRV enabled Apollo 17 astronauts Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt to venture as far as 4.7 miles away from their lunar module, allowing them to cover a total distance of 22.2 miles during their expedition. The vehicle significantly expanded the range of exploration and discovery for the Apollo missions.
Technical Details
The Lego Technic NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle – LRV faithfully replicates the moon buggy at 1/8th scale, capturing intricate details of the original vehicle. The model is divided into four main components, each representing different aspects of the rover including its chassis, communication equipment, and tools for lunar experiments.
Similar to the real lunar rover, the Lego model can be steered using a T-shaped hand controller and features a suspension system for traversing rough terrain. The attention to detail extends to the heating and cooling elements, just like the original rover.
Specific references to the Apollo missions, such as the “moon rocks” collection and the Traverse Gravimeter Experiment, are included in the model to provide an authentic representation of the lunar exploration activities conducted by the astronauts.
Conclusion
The Lego Technic NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle – LRV set is a testament to human ingenuity and exploration, capturing a pivotal moment in space history with remarkable detail and accuracy. By commemorating the achievements of the Apollo missions, Lego continues to inspire curiosity and interest in space exploration among enthusiasts of all ages.
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