Step 6: Generate the Files for the Laser Cutter

Step 7: Cut Out and Assemble the Jupiter 2

To construct the Jupiter 2: The CorelDraw files and a laser cutter were used to cut out and engrave the the parts. I used a 45 Watt Epilog Helix...

Lost in Space is one of my favorite retro science fiction TV shows. I've always wanted a model of the Jupiter 2 space ship from the show. I thought it would be interesting to see if I could use Autodesk 123D and 123D Make to construct a model of the Jupiter 2 made from corrugated cardboard. The Jupiter 2 model turned out really well. Photos of the finished model from various angles can be seen above.

Step 1: Materials and Tools Required

To construct a model of the Jupiter 2 you will need to download and install 123D on your computer and you'll need the following materials:

Four 18" square sheets of corrugated cardboard. You can cut up corrugated cardboard boxes or you can order pre-cut sheets at office supply stores like Staples.

White Glue.

A piece of thin but stiff wire.

A small diameter screw at least 1/4" long.

You will also need access to a laser cutter to cut the Jupiter 2 layers out of the cardboard. I used an Epilog Helix laser cutter.

Step 2: Use 123D to Create the Jupiter 2 Model

The first step to making a corrugated cardboard model of the Jupiter 2 is to create a 3D model of the Jupiter 2 in 123D. I started by finding a photo of the Jupiter 2 (second image) and measuring the sides and angles. I then made a 2D outline of the shape of Jupiter 2 (first screenshot). Using the "revolve" tool in 123D, the 2D outline was converted to a 3D solid model (third screenshot). Various views of the resulting model are shown in the fourth to eighth screenshots.

Step 3: Add a Center Hole to the Model

In order to ease the assembly of the cardboard layers, I added a hole through the center of the model as shown in the screenshots above. The hole will be used to align the layers and ensure that all the pieces are properly centered. After the Jupiter 2 is assembled, you can use the hole for mounting or hanging the model. The 123D model file for the Jupiter 2 is attached.

... Then cut out the bottom of the flying saucer lamp for light to emit in a colum for the "beaming up" of stuff. Then get really kitchy and put a figurine of a person or animal (i.e. farmer, cow, etc...) in the beam.