Among all the LEGO® NASA sets I’ve built, the Space Shuttle Discovery (10283) stands out as my absolute favorite. It’s detailed, functional, and full of personality — a build that celebrates both LEGO creativity and NASA achievement.
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Quick Facts
- Set Number: 10283
- Theme: LEGO Icons / NASA
- Pieces: 2,354
- Release Year: 2021
- MSRP: $199.99 USD
The Build Experience
From the internal Technic frame to the tiled exterior, every section of Discovery feels purposeful. The retractable landing gear, opening payload bay, and Canadarm mechanism are satisfying to build and even more impressive in action. Including the Hubble Space Telescope as a companion model elevates this to another level.
Techniques & Details
LEGO’s design team absolutely nailed the Shuttle’s proportions. The smooth fuselage, printed NASA markings, and foil details on Hubble all contribute to a build that feels more like a museum model than a toy. The engineering precision here is outstanding.
Display Presence
On the included stand, Discovery and Hubble form a dynamic, balanced display that’s both educational and beautiful. Side by side with the Apollo Saturn V (92176), it creates the perfect one-two punch of space history.
Comparisons
While the Saturn V represents humanity’s first giant leap, Discovery represents our persistence in exploration. Compared to the Artemis I Rocket (10341), Discovery still feels like the most refined and display-friendly of the three.
Who It’s For
Ideal for space enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone who loves builds that combine form and function. It’s a rewarding experience for both builders and admirers alike.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Accurate, functional, and beautifully detailed
- Includes the Hubble Space Telescope
- Premium printed parts
- Solid, well-engineered structure
Cons
- White surfaces can show fingerprints
- Requires a wide display area
- No minifigure scale interaction
Final Thoughts
The LEGO® Space Shuttle Discovery is more than a set — it’s a celebration of science, design, and imagination. As my favorite NASA build, it captures everything I love about LEGO’s Icons line. It’s smart, inspiring, and a true conversation starter.
Buy Now
If you’re ready to add Discovery to your collection, here’s where you can find it:
