Review: LEGO International Space Station

When LEGO unveiled a new model called the International Space Station in February 2020, along with a big video of its launch into space, I knew I had to have it. It would be a great addition to my NASA Apollo 11 Lunar Lander and Saturn V models.

International Space Station

The International Space Station is a new LEGO model released to mark 20 years of the International Space Station. It contains only 864 pieces, but is still about half a metre wide and quite varied.

The official price in the LEGO shop is €69.99, with free delivery. For some reason, it is sold in local shops at about 20% more.

Instructions and building

As is customary with these NASA models, the instructions begin with information about the real International Space Station, the model’s creator and the process that took it from an idea to a real LEGO model.

This is an IDEAS model, meaning it was created based on an idea from a LEGO fan.

Although the model contains only 864 pieces, building it is quite a challenge. It consists of smaller sections that you would often never guess belong together. You have to follow the instructions carefully to avoid making a mistake.

Model description

The model is built on a black stand made from LEGO Technic elements. It includes a plaque, space for two small astronaut figures, a spacecraft and a small shuttle model, which is a really nice addition.

The core of the model is a supporting structure that holds the solar panels on the sides and the individual modules at the front and back. The modules are attached one by one, in an order that looks random—exactly as it did in reality.

Some of the modules are quite detailed. For example, Canadarm2, the robotic arm used to handle cargo, is clearly visible at the front and can actually be rotated and extended.

The solar panels are the most prominent element of the entire model and also use LEGO Technic elements.

They allow the arms holding the solar panels to rotate. The solar panels themselves can be tilted sideways, which is a nice detail.

Rating

The LEGO International Space Station is an interesting model that differs quite a lot from the NASA Apollo 11 Lunar Lander or Saturn V, mainly thanks to its LEGO Technic elements and details.

At first glance, this model might look like a collection of random parts that do not quite belong together. But that is exactly the point—it is just like the real International Space Station.