Apollo II Module "Window" COMPLETE POST 13!!

[13doctorwho]

My Dad is obsessed with the Space Program. Someone on here was selling a replica of the window from the Apollo II capsule with a picture of the Earthrise. It was an incredible piece, but I just couldn't afford it.

So, like so many of my projects I thought, "Could I make something similar on a budget?" (Long story, but seeing props I couldn't afford at conventions in the 80's is why I started building).

Mine will not be as accurate as the very beautiful all original material version I saw on here, but I think it will be special to my Father even if it isn't perfect. I am using mixed media. Some of it will be 3D printed, hand cut aluminum, foam, acrylic, and whatever else I can make work.

Instead of using a photo I plan to paint the scene like I did with my TARDIS Scanner Screen and my Enterprise Viewscreen.

So here is where I'm at so far. Take a look and let me know what you think! More updates soon!!

The replica that inspired me...

The 3D printed window ring...

The aluminum base...

The part laid together (Note, the camera distortion make the window ring look too big, it's scaled properly)...

 

[13doctorwho]

A small update. I have completed the cutting and drilling on the aluminum base.

 

[Uridium]

Looking good so far! What an interesting project.

 

[lmgill]

Looks good. This window is from the "Unified" or "Block 2" hatch for the Apollo Command Module (Apollo CM)
It was referred to as "Block 2 (or II)" because it was the revamped / modified version of the Apollo CM, after the Apollo 1 fire.
However, most people do not know the command module was changed, so it is most commonly just referred to as the Apollo CM main hatch.

 

[13doctorwho]

Small update. The main ring is puttied and painted with a base coat. It's not perfect, but the seams are pretty well hidden. Take a look and let me know what you think.

 

[13doctorwho]

Another update. The base and the ring have the base coat and are attached. Next I need to paint the text on the main ring. Take a look and let me know what you think.

 

[13doctorwho]

Slowly, but surely...
I have added the lines and text to the window. It was very, very tedious. I'll let the paint dry thoroughly and clear coat. Then it's on to the miscellaneous parts and adding the screws!!!

 

[13doctorwho]

It's slowly getting there! All the screws are installed, except the ones for the handles and strap. I also modeled, 3D printed, and painted the three handles. Hope to have this done mid June. Let me know what you think...

 

[13doctorwho]

Big moment!! The window is done. It's not perfect but I'm pretty happy with it. On to the painting (for the view)...

Take a look and let me know what you think.

 

[mrwax]

Just catching this for the first time, what a lovely idea and your execution is great. I'm interested to see how you finish it all up!

 

[13doctorwho]

mrwax , Thank you! I've started on a painting of the very famous picture "Earthrise". That's actually much easier than making the window. Hopefully I'll have the final pictures in a few days.

 

[13doctorwho]

Alright, the painted "view" is done. I'm not entirely happy with it. The Earth doesn't look quite right. It's not too late to just print a copy of the photo for the prop. Here's the painting...

 

[13doctorwho]

Finally Complete!! The painting is installed. Here are some pictures. Take a look and let me know what you think...

 

[ZeroSum]

Looks cool. I wonder if having a piece of glass or acrylic in the frame would help sell it? It's not 100% necessary though, you've done a good job.

 

[13doctorwho]

ZeroSum Thank you for the comment! There actually is a sheet of acrylic over it. I used the camera angle to eliminate glare so the painting was easy to see, so it doesn't look like there is acrylic but there is.

Thank you to everyone for likes and comments! I really appreciate it!!