Exploring Saturn

Well, if LEGO Ideas is going to let us post updates, just like regular project submissions, I might as well take advantage of that feature.  :-)

Like my Planetarium project, I thought I'd show how I made Saturn. It is smaller than the Earth planet in the Planetarium, so wanted to show an improved technique I found that makes building it very stable and easy ... even a child could do it!

(Oh, if you haven't seen my Planetarium project yet, go take a look! Maybe add your support, too.)

The Build:

Here is part 1, I've posted pictures below of how I build the ball portion of Saturn. (I hope to add a Part 2 before these updates get closed/locked).

These pics use standard rectangular plate pieces, though in my final entry build I used a couple round plates to enhance the roundness look of the smaller-sized globe.

Step 1: build 6 chunks, all with the same pieces and same construction. (to better control the coloration of your planet, you'll need to get creative with smaller pieces, but I'm not showing that here).

Step 2: To hold it all together, all you need is FOUR 1x4 bricks with side studs, FOUR 1x2 bricks with side studs, and FOUR 1x2 plates.

Step 3: Stack 2 1x2 plates and then the 1x2 brick w/side studs. Then on ONLY TWO of the six chunks, attach the pieces as shown. The side-attached 1x2 bricks (with 1x2 plates) fit perfectly (the span is 4 studs, which equals exactly 10 plates). These are not forced or angled, but a perfect legal connection.

Step 4: Connect chunks building the EQUATOR first. Because of the added 1x2 plates inside, these bricks with side studs are firm -- they will NOT MOVE or come off as you attach each chunk.  Note that the little ends sticking out of the chunks must be alternated as you build the equator portion.

Step 5: Now, add the poles. Again, the internal pieces are firm in place, and won't come off no matter how much sliding/wiggling you do with the chunk when attaching. This is what makes it easy for even a child to build -- no mistakes, no coming apart on the inside!

Step 6: Done!

Now go build your own LEGO balls and planets!

Oh, and if you haven't votes yet, I'd appreciate your support. Then, because I only have a few friends I can share this with, please share this on your own favorite social media and get your friends to vote, too!

Thanks!