Neo Classic Space

Spacemen need to get about their bases, and for shorter journeysthe larger ships are just too cumbersome. That's where smaller skipmmers like Ian Greig's LL-892 come into their own.

The prototype for what became the LL-892 skimmer was originally developed in response to Staff Requirement SR-10317, which specified the need for a high performance aerial patrol vehicle codenamed 'Security Patrol/Light Aero - Next Generation' (SP/LA-NG) to replace the LL-885p, the patrol variant of the venerable Space Scooter. One of the main deficiencies of the Space Scooter was its limited range and its inability to operate in even the thinnest of atmospheres. SP/LA-NG was to incorporate a new mixed-mode engine that was able to operate equally well in either vacuum or thin atmosphere.

Retaining many of the design features of the LL-891, the LL-892 “Advanced Space Skimmer” (as the T/LA-NG was officially named when it was released into service) provided vastly increased levels of performance and crew protection, and rapidly won many fans. Although larger and more complex than its predecessor, its modular design allowed for very easy maintenance. This also encouraged modification - numerous custom versions rapidly appeared, with survey, courier, and surveillance drone versions amongst the first to appear.

Ian talks about the build: The aim for the build was to produce an updated version of the 891 set; something that was readily recognisable but fitted with the Neo-Classic Space ‘vibe’. I started with the three-part hinged blended body/wing, with the cranked leading edge, and built out from that. The body section started as six studs wide, but was quickly widened to seven studs to make it a little more interesting. It makes extensive use of hidden Technic bricks and Technic half pins to hold it together. The final model is fairly robust and very swooshable.

We really love the almost organic shape, and the wonderfully grebelly bottom. Ian has also done a great job of mimicking the box art from set 891!