[LDD] Modular Spacecraft

[vynsane]

It seemed the next logical extension of the Modular Starfighter system to branch out into larger spacefaring craft. This first design leans heavily on the look of Star Trek shuttles, with engine nacelles akimbo, sloping front windscreen and angled rear access. Just as was the case with the Modular Starfighter, I foresee a lot of variations/expansions of this new platform.


"Niuma" Class Modular Light Cargo Shuttle (GHL Livery) by vynsane, on Flickr


"Niuma" Class Modular Light Cargo Shuttle (Exploded) by vynsane, on Flickr

With the unprecedented performance of the "Firedemon" engine modules developed for the "Oni" and "Ryu" starfighter, Tanuki Corp. began to target segments of the spacecraft market previously unexplored by the company.

The inaugural offering from this new line of Modular Spacecraft, the "Niuma" (Japanese for "Packhorse") Class Light Cargo Shuttle proved a very reliable and popular intra-solar-system delivery vehicle for Galactic Handling and Logistics (GHL) as well as other parcel delivery companies.

With a crew compliment of two, a spacious cargo area and large rear loading door/ramp, the features are utilitarian but accommodating enough to endear it in the hearts of those who fly it.

The new module format lends itself to many configurations ranging from this light cargo shuttle, to passenger shuttles, luxury space yachts, and large public transport craft as well as military applications such as gunboats and dropships. The highly configurable/customizable nature has also attracted the attention of smugglers and bounty hunters as well, though most render the factory parts nearly unrecognizable, being surrounded by aftermarket and/or one-off custom modules built to personal spec.

LDD Files

• "Niuma" Class Modular Light Cargo Shuttle (GHL Livery)
• "Niuma" Class Modular Light Cargo Shuttle (color-coded modules)

[Leo-J]

Never ceases to amaze. Another good one!

[vynsane]

Thanks, Leo-J! I really appreciate that!

I made some modifications to the 'standard' for the modules, adding two more rows of module 'hardpoints' - one towards the top and one at the very bottom, in addition to the one already existing. I've updated the files here:

"Niuma" Class Modular Light Cargo Shuttle - UPDATED

• "Niuma" Class Modular Light Cargo Shuttle (GHL Livery)
• "Niuma" Class Modular Light Cargo Shuttle (color-coded modules)

"Watashimori" Class Passenger Shuttle by vynsane, on Flickr


"Watashimori" Class Modular Passenger Shuttle (Exploded View) by vynsane, on Flickr

Evolving out of the versatile modular platform introduced in the "Niuma" Class Light Cargo Shuttle, the "Watashimori" (Japanese for "Ferryman") features, in addition to the cockpit, step-up collar and rear access hatch from its predecessor, a cabin compartment accommodating 12 passengers with bulkhead pressure doors at either end and four "Firedemon" engines connected via a new wing module for clearance/visibility.

An order of five shuttles painted to match the livery of Finland Spacelines offers service from Helsinki Spaceport to ISS 5, 7 and 9 as well as the Lunar colony located at the Sea of Tranquility every 45 minutes during peak hours. Contact Finland Spacelines Customer Service for off-peak timetables or download them straight into your neural cortical implant by thinking "Finland Spacelines Off-peak Schedule" now.

LDD Files

• "Watashimori" Class Modular Passenger Shuttle (Finland Spacelines Livery)
• "Watashimori" Class Passenger Shuttle (Exploded View)