Orbital Taurus Model 3110

This is Orbital Science's Taurus Model 3110 Launch Vehicle in the OCO mission markings. There is plenty of information about the rocket itself on Orbital's website if you want to check that out. I wasn't planning on making this model, but I was asked by a friend to make it. I also happened to be contacted by a NASA engineer if I was going to design it, so I figured it was a sign.

Up, up, and away!
Up, up, and away!

Again, this model was completed due to my friend Carlos. He got me a couple great images and some source data that made it possible to make the model. As before, with out him, I couldn't have made this rocket. Thanks Carlos.

The beta build
The beta build

NASA was very excited about this mission. We were finally going to be able to map out all the CO2 in the atmosphere and see what's going on with our environment. Everything was all set and ready to go, and then the launch failed. Talk about a bummer. The darned fairing failed to separate and the satellite fell back to earth. What are you going to do?

Pictures and Download

But there's no need to stay disappointed. Most of the work that went into the mission was the research and development of the satellite. Now that all that is done, they can make another for a fraction of the cost. I'm hoping that they give it another shot and send one up in the near future. Maybe they'll even use another Taurus and I can make another model.

Almost a foot long
Almost a foot long

In the meantime, this will make a nice addition to the 1/96 scale rocket collection. It's almost as tall as the 3210 version, and the decals are fairly different. With the other Minotaur rockets I have, and the Pegasus model by Erik te Groen you can now build all the rockets from Orbital.

Fairing details
Fairing details

Speaking of the rockets from Orbital, did you know they name all their rockets? They do. This one was named "Jacqueline Ann." Who would have thought? Makes me wonder who Jacqueline Ann is. It also makes me wonder if I can get them to name one after me. Now that would be cool. Until then, you can just get the model here.

Oh, and as a side note, all the model pictures on this page and the model file are of the beta build. I had to add some decals and the name prior after I finalized the design. Once I get it made, I'll release another model and update the pictures here.

Download the Taurus 3110 model here.

Instructions and building notes are included with the model. I recommend that you print this on regular white paper, around 24 lb. Also...

Download the stand here.