The Catacombs Catacombs Model Gallery
Taybor Models

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Click for larger image This jumpdrive spaceship, the SS Emporium, reflects the flamboyant personality of its owner, Taybor the trader. It features an assembly of landing rockets underneath, but it requires no main boosters: this craft can simple dissolve into hyperspace. The cone shaped craft is unusually aerodynamic for a Space: 1999 spaceship. Panels on the lower section serve as landing legs (although these are actually fixed in place on the model and there are no slots to retract them into- merely a black painted strip).
Click for larger image Once landed, four doors open to vent heat from the central jumpdrive core (there should be a fifth door, but as our exclusive picture shows this side of the model was never completed- it remains open to allow access to the door mechanisms and the light-bulb that serves as the jumpdrive core). Click for larger image
Click for larger image Taybor's gun is just an illusion, but it is a also a brightly coloured, extravagant design.

Martin Bower in Sci Fi and Fantasy Models 13: Taybor's Gun from series 2 was built rather like a three dimensional jig-saw. It was entirely fabricated in perspex from a series of complex shapes I made to fit together as I went along. I first cut out a chipboard shape based on my design sketch and then using this to build on I constructed the lower half of the model. I then cut out a second base plate for the turret section and then cut 2 side elevation shapes and stuck these to the base either side of the gun barrel which I had first built in perspex and EMA tube and box section. Once I'd done this the rest of the model was built around this centre section slot which allowed the barrel to move up and down.
Click for larger image Although planted firmly on three robust legs, the turret revolves and the cannon barrel can be raised or lowered. However, there is no mechanism in this model.
Click for larger image Note the Alphan hangar gantries in the background of these shots.
Click for larger image The back of the gun turret.
Click for larger image The base of the gun with the turret removed. A surprisingly irregular shape.

Copyright Martin Willey