What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsPick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
ThatPainter is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More
NASA offers four ways to make a Hubble model: a standard paper model, a much more demanding expert paper model, a PVC build and a 3D-printable model. For most first-time builders, the standard paper version is the practical choice: it uses about 30 pieces and NASA estimates four to eight hours. It is a display model—not a working telescope.
Choose the right Hubble model
| Build | What NASA specifies | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Standard paper | About 30 pieces; approximately four to eight hours; average-to-difficult; delicate, with moderate detail. Includes a three-dimensional section of the optical telescope assembly. NASA describes its configuration as Hubble after Servicing Mission 3B in March 2002. NASA standard paper model | A detailed printable project with a manageable number of parts. |
| Expert paper | Around 300 pieces; approximately 30 hours; very difficult; moderate durability and high detail, including interior and exterior features. NASA expert paper model | Experienced model makers comfortable with intricate cuts and small parts. |
| PVC | Approximately one to three hours; average difficulty; sturdy, with low detail. NASA’s page lists parts for under $30 when it was published or updated; that is a dated estimate, not a current price. NASA PVC model | A quicker, sturdier project using hardware-store materials, with adult help for tool work. |
| 3D printable | NASA lists a Hubble 3D-printable model. Printer settings, materials and build time are not stated on the cited model-resource page. NASA 3D model resource | Someone with access to a 3D printer who wants to explore NASA’s downloadable model. |
The standard and expert paper models are educational display models; neither can be used to observe the sky. Use the instructions for the specific version you choose rather than mixing steps between builds.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Sprue Brothers Hasegawa 1:200 Hubble Space Telescope 'The Repair 20th Anniversary', HAS52326
Build the standard paper model
Gather materials
NASA’s standard model uses cardstock or cover-weight paper for the pattern parts and ordinary paper for the directions. Have these supplies ready before cutting:
- NASA pattern sheets, printed on cardstock or cover-weight paper, and the printed directions
- White or clear craft glue and/or a glue stick
- Sharp scissors
- A 1/8-inch wooden dowel, medium-weight sandpaper and black construction paper
- A ruler, preferably metal-edged, and a pencil
- Black marker or paint, plus silver or gray paint
NASA also lists a flat scoring tool, toothpicks or a small brush for applying glue, a craft knife and cutting board, shiny material, and clear sealant as optional aids. The craft knife should be used on a cutting board.
Rank #2
- EXPLORE THE HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE – Celebrate one of humanity’s greatest scientific feats while enjoying a relaxing building experience with the LEGO Icons Hubble Space Telescope (11382) building set for adults ages 18 and up
- REPLICA SPACE MODEL – Recreate the legendary space-based telescope with posable solar arrays and antennas, an opening aperture door and a detailed instrument bay
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS – Remove the exterior panels to reveal a detailed instrument bay, which features gyroscopes alongside primary and secondary mirrors
- PREMIUM SPACE DECOR – Showcase the collectible space model on a shelf or desk using the included stand with information plaque, then add the astronaut minifigure to demonstrate approximate scale
- GIFT IDEA FOR ASTRONOMY FANS – This striking display piece makes an ideal gift for adults who love astronomy and science decor, and is perfect for birthdays, holidays or any special occasion
Print at the correct scale
Print the pattern sheets, then measure the gauge printed on a sheet with a ruler before cutting. NASA advises disabling page scaling in newer Adobe Reader versions; in older Acrobat versions, turn off options such as fit, shrink or expand. If the gauge does not measure correctly, adjust the print settings and print again so the parts retain their intended dimensions. See NASA’s standard model downloads and print guidance.
Start the assembly
Keep NASA’s downloadable directions and pattern sheets beside you: they control the remaining cuts, folds and alignment. The opening steps establish the support structure and aft shroud, the section that houses many of Hubble’s mechanical systems and science instruments.
Rank #3
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up.
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
- HUBBLE TELESCOPE – 1 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3.00 x 2.00 x 2.50 inches.
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions.
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all.
- Prepare the dowels. Cut two lengths to 9 1/4 inches and sand the ends. Mark and sand one dowel flat at both ends to create mounting surfaces. Color the dowels as directed and let them dry.
- Make the aft-shroud cylinder. Score and cut the first two paper pieces, then join their tabs to form a cylinder.
- Add the inner piece. Fold the teeth on the next piece and glue it inside the cylinder. Fit the additional support piece inside to help the cylinder hold its shape.
- Attach the top. Score and cut the top piece, then attach it while aligning the small blue triangles printed on the parts.
- Continue with the official directions. Follow the PDF for all later components, placement and alignment; the early steps alone do not complete the model.
Download NASA’s standard paper-model instructions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to expect from the other builds
Expert paper model
Allow approximately 30 hours for NASA’s roughly 300-piece expert model. Its supplies include 32-pound printer paper, cardboard, several types of glue including superglue, scissors, a sharp craft knife with extra blades, a metal straightedge and a cutting board. The model represents both interior and exterior details. Sharp tools and superglue require careful handling; children need adult supervision. Get NASA’s expert-model details and downloads.
Rank #4
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up.
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
- JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE - 2.75 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 4.13 L x 2.75 W x 2.75 H inches. 1:221 Scale. 62 Pieces
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions.
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all.
PVC model
NASA estimates one to three hours for the PVC model, which favors sturdiness over fine detail. Listed tools include a drill with a 3/16-inch bit, saw, clamp or vise, sandpaper or file, scissors or craft knife, stapler, ruler and pencil. Some construction requires adult help; children using power tools need adult supervision, and NASA strongly advises eye protection. The under-$30 parts figure on NASA’s page is historical and should not be treated as a current quote. Check NASA’s PVC model instructions and materials.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- HOBBY MODEL KITS – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up
- HUBBLE TELESCOPE – 1 Sheet Model with an easy difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3"x2"x2.5"
- APOLLO LUNAR ROVER – 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3.54" x 1.77" x 2.28"
- APOLLO LUNAR MODULE - 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 2.34" x 2.34" x 2.15"
- MARS ROVER – 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3.67" x 3.35" x 2.34"
Keep the project safe and accurate
- Use cardstock or cover-weight paper for the standard pattern sheets, and verify the print gauge before cutting.
- Treat paper versions as display models, not instruments for looking at the sky.
- Use the official version-specific PDF for exact placement and later assembly; the basic sequence here is not a substitute for all its diagrams.
- Supervise children closely around craft knives, superglue and power tools. For the PVC build, use eye protection as NASA advises.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →
