by Patrick Maley

For this contest I've built the Ralph McQuarrie version of the Galactica.

His paintings contributed to the overall look of the show, but his design of the Galactica needed to be brought to life. The model is 32 inches long by 16 inches wide, about half studio scale. the skeleton is cardboard with plastic sheet glued on. The "head" was carved out of balsa and then vacuum formed. McQuarrie's Battlestar had some detail but was smooth overall. I've detailed the ship with armor shutters around sensitive areas and weapons. The anti ship turrets are partially hidden by shutters, 50 small anti fighter turrets for close encounters and 15 flank missile tubs.

I've spared no expense for lighting this beast: three sets of 20 count LED battery Christmas lights from Big Lots were used. I know - she's is wired like a Christmas tree.

The overall color of the ship is Floquil SP Lettering Gray.

I hope my creation reflects Mr. McQuarrie's vision, everything from the little grappler arms at the end of the landing bays, to the divided engine section and the ball laser turrets all over the ship.

Image: Port side detail

Image: Overall

Image: Approach

Image: Left/rear

Image: Right/front