Many incredible AFOL-designed sets have come out of the Bricklink Designer Program, especially for fans of Castle, history, and trains. But even after 9 cycles of submissions and fan voting, there’s one popular LEGO category that hasn’t been represented – Space! Will series 10 break the streak? Perhaps the Graviton Nomad by VangelisBricks is the sleek spaceship that can introduce modern spaceship design to a bigger audience.
Built from 1894 pieces, Vangelis’ ship is a sophisticated departure from the Spaceships found in official LEGO sets, while feeling right at home alongside the best Starships featured on this site and popular online. The dynamic mix of angles and curves, clear blocking, subtle asymmetry, and bold colors evoke the amazing creations of builders like Blake Foster and Nick Trotta.
Shipbuilding aside, one thing I appreciate about Vangelis’ submission is the strong narrative that accompanies the build. This isn’t just a generic spaceship or nostalgia bait – it’s a glimpse of a rich sci-fi setting where the builder can chart a new course in a universe of adventures. Are the hot young crew of two professional partners, or something more? Are those aliens with the mysterious chest friend or foe? The ensemble evokes the world of Valérian and Laureline in the best way.
Vangelis also includes essential playability functions, like a functional interior accessible by removeable roof or rear loading bay door, and working landing gear. There’s even a kitchen and toilet! And as evidenced in the photographs, the model doesn’t just look great in renders but is a fully realized and tested physical build.
Perhaps the model would be enhanced further with a custom windscreen, but I appreciate the panoramic canopy that emphasizes the characters piloting the ship.
As a bonus, VangelisBricks commissioned some concept art, like this piece from shizumar, that hints at the types of danger the crew of the Graviton Nomad might face.
If you want to see the Graviton Nomad become a real set, you can vote for it between now and February 20th on the Bricklink Designer Program website here.
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