{
  "id": 15930807,
  "title": "We Build LEGO Hubble Space Telescope: a Miniature Homage to Cosmic Discovery",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/21/we-build-lego-hubble-space-telescope-a-miniature-homage-to-cosmic",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-10-21T17:47:32.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IGN",
    "slug": "ign",
    "url": "https://www.ign.com/articles/we-build-lego-hubble-space-telescope-11382"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ever since childhood, I have been captivated by the mysteries of space. My fascination grew as I grew older, until I decided that the confinement of a small spacecraft would not suit me. Yet, my passion for space never waned. When I learned that LEGO had partnered with NASA and the European Space Agency to produce a LEGO replica of the Hubble Space Telescope, marking the 35th anniversary of its launch, I knew I had to acquire it. This LEGO set, numbered #11382, is intended for ages 18 and above and contains 1,252 pieces, measuring 12.5 (H) x 15 (W) x 15 (D). Priced at $139.99, it is available for purchase on Amazon and the LEGO Store.\n\nThe LEGO Hubble Space Telescope is constructed in three primary sections, spread across nine bags. These sections include the stand, the back portion housing the instrument bay, and the narrower front shaft. Building this set proved to be a soothing experience, further complemented by a space-themed synthwave playlist. The process began with assembling the stand, an intriguing structure crafted using interlocking Technics pieces to form an angled post, ensuring the Hubble remains stable when displayed. This unique stand features translucent printed pieces, depicting Hubble's iconic Deep Field images, such as the Pillars of Creation, the Whirlpool Galaxy, and the Butterfly Nebula. This stand also includes a small plaque, affixed as a sticker on a flat surface, providing information about Hubble's dimensions, weight, launch date, and dates of significant service missions.\n\nWhile constructing this LEGO model, I discovered numerous intriguing facts about the Hubble Space Telescope and its inner mechanisms. Over the past three decades, Hubble has documented over 1.7 million observations of the universe, producing breathtaking images as it orbits low Earth. The instruction manual presents various fascinating details about the Hubble Telescope and includes a diagram of all recreated scientific instruments within the LEGO model.\n\nAfter completing the stand, I moved on to the most critical section of the Hubble—the bottom half, which encompasses many of its vital systems and instruments. Although I anticipated this portion to be engaging, it was somewhat repetitive, featuring symmetrical sections and recurring instructions. The intricacies of the advanced camera and spectographs were represented by just four brown corner wall panel pieces, making it somewhat challenging to ensure accurate orientation. To address this issue, LEGO incorporated a seemingly random green piece on one side to prevent misplacement.\n\nThe assembly of the interior and some of the instruments concluded with the attachment of three out of four sides of the Hubble. The final, removable side allows for a view into the bottom section, revealing the camera, mirrors, sensors, and baffle. The upper shaft of the Hubble mainly consists of attaching four long outer panels, which can be repetitive due to their similarity. The panels are mostly rounded grey pieces, requiring careful handling to avoid dislodging them. A noteworthy feature of the upper section is the suspended secondary mirror, which clicks into place as the panels are attached. These panels also interlock smoothly, while a removable panel at the upper shaft's end offers a glimpse into additional components.\n\nCompleting the LEGO Hubble Space Telescope involves attaching the two communication antennas, which can be folded down, extended, and rotated, similar to the real telescope. Additionally, the two large solar arrays are constructed using thin plastic sheets with solar panels on one side and shiny silver on the back. These can be easily articulated to face any direction. Throughout the assembly process, I often pondered the stability of the finished product on the stand. Interestingly, the set features a small hole in the center of the body that fits into the stand, but due to its top-heavy design, it may become slightly wobbly when stationary. Despite this minor imperfection, the finished LEGO Hubble Space Telescope looks fantastic when displayed. LEGO has masterfully recreated the iconic design of the Hubble Space Telescope, making this set a must-have for space enthusiasts.",
  "summary": "Ever since I was a child, I've always been fascinated by space. I would look up at the night sky and dream of one day becoming an astronaut, endlessly exploring the cosmos. Then I got older and decided that being stuck in a small spacecraft for months on end probably wasn't a great idea (thanks, anxiety). But my love for space still lives on, and when I saw that LEGO announced a replica of the…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}