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The takeaway: Lego's newest Hubble Space Telescope set focuses less on appearance and more on how the observatory actually works. Released on August 1 for $139.99, the 1,252-piece Lego Icons model recreates both the telescope's exterior and internal systems. Panels can be removed, and the aperture door opens to reveal the interior – something earlier versions did not attempt.
The model reflects Hubble's current configuration after its final servicing mission in 2009. Inside are brick-built versions of key instruments still in use today, including the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph, Cosmic Origins Spectrograph, Advanced Camera for Surveys, and Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer. Their placement follows the layout of the real telescope, providing a clearer sense of how Hubble captures and processes light.
Opening the top reveals the secondary mirror assembly, while removable sections along the body expose the primary mirror and central baffle, which directs incoming light. The set also includes representations of the gyroscopes and guidance sensors used to keep the telescope properly oriented in orbit.
