As we discussed previously, the #10497 LEGO Icons Galaxy Explorer set is now available at the Online LEGO Shop. This collectible edition set celebrates the 90th anniversary of the LEGO hobby.
The official description of the set mentions that this is a recreation of the #497 LEGO Classic Space Galaxy Explorer from 1979 (this set was sold as #928 LEGO Galaxy Explorer in the U.S.). It includes many of the features of the original model like the blended delta wing configuration, landing legs, opening rear doors, rover compartment with a retractable ramp to deploy a rover, cockpit with seats for all the astronauts, as well as living quarters with beds, computers and storage compartments. LEGO fans who built the original set should have a wonderful experience with this updated model while bringing back nostalgic memories from their childhood. And those who only heard of LEGO Classic Space will have a chance to experience the magic of LEGO’s original space exploration-related collection.
One thing that neither the description nor the box or building instruction mention is that the #10497 LEGO Icons Galaxy Explorer set can be rebuilt in two other ways. The first alternate build brings back the #487 LEGO Classic Space Cruiser (this set was sold as the #924 LEGO Space Cruiser in the U.S.), which was a smaller version of the Galaxy Explorer with similar features.
The other alternate build is based on the #918 LEGO Classic Space Transport that was also within the same fleet but operated by a single minifigure.
In the video below, Balazs from RacingBrick Shows you all three models in detail.
As mentioned above, the printed instructions that come with the #10497 LEGO Icons Galaxy Explorer set only include the first model. If you would like to build the alternate versions, you need to access the instructions from the free-to-download LEGO Instructions app, or the LEGO Building Instructions page.
You can build one model at a time, or purchase extra copies of the #10497 LEGO Icons Galaxy Explorer to build the entire fleet! The set is available at the LEGO Icons section of the Online LEGO Shop.
What do you think? How do you like the new version of the LEGO Galaxy Explorer? Did you have a chance to build the original one? Do you still have it? Feel free to share and discuss in the comment section below!
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It’s really neat that they designed in this way. Some fan would probably have done it eventually anyways, but nice to see LEGO go the extra mile and make this set even more special.
Dang! Thanks for the heads up. I like the set now even more!
I want this set so bad! Everyone always talks about classic space and I can finally experience it!
I’m more nostalgic towards the “Tron Era” as I call it, from “Fut’ron” and Blacktron in 1987 until Exploriens in 1996, these sets tended to have similar design aestethics and feature various sub-themes that often interacted in advertisements, or were included together in various sets.
But a pretty cool set, otherwise, although I guess I prefer the design update on 70816 Benny’s Spaceship, Spaceship, SPACESHIP!.
Futuron et al. were my bread and butter growing up. For some reason, the addition of the visors to the helmets just blew my mind. I still have the giant Ice Planet ship, Deep Freeze Defender, assembled, though not on display.
And the Ice Planeteers didn’t only have visors, they also had horizontal eye slits and antennas. Bedazzling!
I’m so glad they released this set. I like it even better than the castle. And it’s cheaper too! I also have Benny’s Spaceship.