Building Polar Lights 1:1000 scale USS Enterprise

This video series will cover my build of the Polar Lights 1/1000 scale Enterprise from Trek Discovery. Part one begins with prepping the model for lighting followed by the application of the base color. The nacelles are assembled which includes the installation of the motors and lights from the Polar Lights lighting kit. The video concludes with installing the lights inside the primary hull.
Links
Star Trek Model kit previews • 1:1000 Enterprise (Dis...
TrekWorks • Star Trek Discovery 1:...
TenaControls: tenacontrols.com/product/1100...

[@TrekWorks]

Thanks for the shout out Oggie and very nice work on your model. Don't forget to seal the paint with clear before you apply the decals. i found out that it can stain from the water when i first started working with the craft paints. Looking forward to the finish.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Great to hear from you Boyd and you're welcome. It's a pleasure to acknowledge you and your contribution to the sci-fi modeling community. And thanks for the tip. I've already applied a sealer so will be placing the decals very soon. Thanks for watching.

[@triruns]

The cheap Walmart brand flat black spray is also excellent. Boyd is SO good at finding inexpensive alternatives to "official" hobby products. Looking forward to the rest of your build!

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thx for the tip and yes he sure is. Thanks for watching

[@brandonb1681]

I watch Boyd all the time. He does get great results with cheaper materials.

[@j.cameronmcclain4952]

I built the original TOS Enterprise -- with the lighting kit -- back in the 60s. I got the Discovery Enterprise model for Christmas and have invested in most of the accessories and tools you've used building yours (lighting kit, aztec decals, paints, etc). I'm really looking forward to "bookending" my model-making efforts by putting together this edition of my beloved NCC-1701. Great, instructional video, thank you so much for walking through the tools and build points for the rest of us, it's a great help!

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks so much. Feel free to send pics of your completed model to include in the Hot Off the Bench slideshow 😊 Enjoy the build

[@j.cameronmcclain4952]

@@InterstellarModeler, the very thing you said to be careful about happening, happened. One of the wires for the lights behind the Bussard Collector snapped off - I was having a lot of trouble seating the lights in the housing, and with one false move, snap. I did some digging around and decided to splurge on the TenaControls kit - the lack of red and green running lights were already bothering me, and they have the blinking versions as part of their kit, so that's where we're going next. More work for me, since the lights have to be soldered to wires, but hey, that's the way it is. Thinking of getting that 3-in-1 kit and another set of lights next, so I can finally put together the TOS version with the needle-tip nacelles. Too bad about the Polar Lights edition - they seem to have replaced the thicker wires with thinner ones, but yeah, the solder connections are still really delicate.

[@mulderx2525]

c est toujours un reel plaisir de suivre vos videos et vos petits trucs pour contourner les problemes rencontrés lors du montage.vivement la suite. stay safe.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thank you so much.

[@monnierobinson9210]

Very nice job. That box is sitting on my desk waiting for me to start. Many good tips and mods on this kit. Thanks for points of concern. I may change out the wires when I put this together. We'll see.

[@InterstellarModeler]

You're welcome. Thank you for the nice comment

[@ianfleetwood8804]

Never thought about dusting the clear parts in the saucer with white and following your layout of the lights will help me. I'll restart my build in the next couple of days after I have finished my space 1999 laser tank.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks Ian

[@antinbath]

Your video has been really helpful. This is my first build so I’ve been learning a lot and taking notes from your build process. Thank you for covering all the aspects of the build clearly, and showing potential challenges with the build and how you solved them. I appreciate it a great deal.

[@InterstellarModeler]

You’re welcome and thanks so much for your kind comments. Feel free to send pics of your build. Happy modeling

[@toddwalker4301]

I'm taking many notes on your build and the helpful hints you have provided, here. Getting ready to start this kit, but the aztec decals are almost impossible to find at this point in '23. I may have to go with masks. Great channel, Sir!

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks. I appreciate your kind compliments. Honestly if I were to rebuild this kit I would use the painting masks. The decals were ok.

[@toddwalker4301]

I apologize for all my questions and your patience for this beginner! I plan on painting the domes for my bussards on this kit as well. What Tamiya clear are you using because I have heard that some don't adhere to clear plastic. Thanks for your help, Sir. I appreciated the alert on the saucer lights and where to place them...that helped a lot!!

[@GloopTrekker]

Wow! Despite the flaws pointed out during the video, it's looking good so far. Can't wait to see it completed.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks

[@jaimejohnny2758]

i know im asking the wrong place but does someone know of a method to get back into an instagram account? I was dumb lost the account password. I would love any help you can give me!

[@acejake7500]

@Jaime Johnny instablaster ;)

[@jaimejohnny2758]

@Ace Jake Thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site through google and I'm waiting for the hacking stuff now. Takes a while so I will get back to you later with my results.

[@jaimejohnny2758]

@Ace Jake It worked and I now got access to my account again. I am so happy:D Thanks so much, you saved my account!

[@emperor187]

Agree on fit when using lighting kit. I also had my motor wires come off during pylon assembly and had to resolder. I used some spare 28 gauge wire I've used in other props and the fit was insanely easy afterwards. Save some time and frustration and just rewire all of the nacelle wires.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks....I'm editing the final reveal today and will be suggesting that for sure. The heavy wires also obstruct light in the secondary hull too. Windows lit unevenly. Thanks for your comment.

[@emperor187]

@@InterstellarModeler and thank you sir for making outstanding modeling videos!

[@kenspriggs5687]

Looks great Oggie! Love your paint choices!

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks Ken.

[@outofthisworldmodelsandmin898]

I'm going to start this kit after the first of the year. Can't wait to see your final result!

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks

[@thefalloutshelter7799]

Coming along very nicely. Those motors are surprisingly loud

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks. They're not quite as bad in person and they're also quieter when the model is hooked up to the 3 AA battery power source provided with the model.

[@arnthorsnaer]

Thank you for sharing your glue techniques!

[@InterstellarModeler]

You’re welcome, thank you for watching

[@schuhmansmodelshop8657]

Looking great so far and good tips

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks Marc

[@andrewdrabble8939]

Looking good

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks 👍

[@scifiguy26]

Informative as always👍🏾🖖🏾

[@InterstellarModeler]

Appreciate that, thanks

[@jhunt5440]

I was so close to purchasing the lighting kit for this but after seeing some of the problems, I’m glad I didn’t pull the trigger. As always, your build is looking great.

[@InterstellarModeler]

thanks for the compliment

[@voodoonights1671]

Lovely. Need to start lighting things for the extra dimension.

[@InterstellarModeler]

yeah for sure....give it a try.

[@brianwilkerson2513]

I mounted the middle led for the flux chiller under the blue opening and it works great. No hot spot unless you’re looking at it from above.

[@InterstellarModeler]

great tip, thx

[@mattsmodelshop]

Wow, how did I miss your channel? This was a great video! very informative with your step by step instructions. I've subscribed and will be watching more of your content! I like that I can always learn more tips/tricks from the people in this hobby.

[@InterstellarModeler]

thank you very much for your kind compliments. I appreciate you subscribing and watching.

[@Tim-57]

I am pretty sure that you will not be disappointed Matt. I have watched Oggie for over 2yrs and I do not even build models.

[@EagleSciFiModeler]

Looking good.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks 👍

[@darrelld.paveyjr.1477]

Thank You for the rapid response, I have checked out "Trekworks" also the other builder you mentioned, lots of vids to view. You go into great detail, keep up the the fantastic presentations.

[@InterstellarModeler]

You're welcome and Thank you Darrell.

[@TwistedSisterHaratiofales]

really cool. I am close to starting my 1/72 scale Constitution Class Starship project. I want to get the camera's set up in the shop to film the build logs. This is really inspiring.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thank you so much, really appreciate the compliment

[@GPGPapercraftTX]

The canopy glue is slick! You know, it would be best if it stays milky . Perfect diffuser. Those lights are just big square patches.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks. It didn't dry as flat as I wanted. Another alternative would be to use SolarRez. You can see the results on Trek works at this link, 1:30 into the video.

[@THROTTLEPOWER]

Nice video!!! 👍 👍

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks

[@foxflight3]

EXCELLENT VIDEO OGGIE! Just FYI in regard to the bulky wire problem on the light kit...Dollar Tree carrie's red and black plastic covered electrical wire with a diameter of about .025 - .030 ....I used this on my Atlantis Models Triangular UFO kit because space inside this tiny kit was not at a premium. The only thing I noted about this wire us the coating does not tolerate a lot of rough handling....you can strip the coating off with your thumb nail with mildly firm pressure and pull. You will not have problems with this if you keep this in mind. You get a generous amount of wire in the roll for $1.00. I know on the Discovery Enterprise Kit you might have to cut and replace/solder in new leads but it will mitigate some of the issues Oggie spoke about in his EXCELLENT video on this build. I will post a video on my group page about this wire soon. I wont take the liberty of posting the link to my group page on Oggie's forum.....he can if he wishes. Thanks again Interstellar modeler!

[@InterstellarModeler]

Excellent tip, thanks David

[@brianwilkerson2513]

This is my next project. Thanks for covering the light kit. I’m going to do this kit and Aztec it with the masks from MaskDesign. I can hardly wait to get started.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Sounds great, look forward to seeing your project.

[@stevecaldon2468]

You need to do a full Refit build! I love the way you do your videos!

[@InterstellarModeler]

thanks...the refit is quite the project. I have one and will attempt it at some point. Right now I have no place to display it. Thanks for the compliment

[@DemkoModelworks]

Very nice

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thank you

[@DemkoModelworks]

@@InterstellarModeler you’re welcome

[@mantismodels1207]

I've seen Lou Dalmaso use something like a clear styrene that He "frosted" for light diffusion. I've also seen Him use fabric batting..the kind You can find in craft stores for using in quilts or pillows. Anyways...the kit looks great!

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks....yes I've tried a number of methods as well. Lou is an incredible, resourceful builder for sure. Thanks for the tip

[@williamneuman7783]

@@InterstellarModeler I have also seen Lou use and acrylic paint called black tulip. Not sure the brand, It's thick but works with a paint brush and seems to be really good at light blocking seams.

[@InterstellarModeler]

@@williamneuman7783Yep....it's through Lou that I learned about the product as well. I actually use Tulip Black Fabric paint all the time for light blocking. I used it on the end tips of the nacelles and more recently on the shuttle bay doors. Thanks for the tip

[@dalethelander3781]

@@InterstellarModeler Hey, Oggie, I'm working on the Moebius tv Seaview kit and bought the Tenacontrols light kit. Any trouble spots as far as light blocking goes?

[@InterstellarModeler]

@@dalethelander3781 Hi Dale...not that I recall although I only lit the bridge from the interior. It was the first model I ever lit and was just excited to get the bridge to light up LOL. I would definitely light block above the bridge of course. Would a light block on the tips of the fins if you're placing lights there. Other than that, nothing else comes to mind.

[@tygrtrax9273]

Looks great! I was considering opening the windows at the top of the saucer as well...I chickened out. Maybe the next build, yours look great. I have to get back to my build it's been weeks...the seams....the seams! UGH. But the decals will cover practically all of them I think. Any way happy building and looking forward to the reveal. 👍

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thank you

[@fubarmodelyard1392]

Looking good so far. I like how Boyd used parts of the light kit with his own modifications. By now tenacontrols should have a much improved light kit.

[@InterstellarModeler]

It looks pretty good from what I see on their website. Something worth check out, thanks

[@brandonb1681]

I'm sorta of a beginner. As much as I want to light a model, I would hate to mess it up. I am looking forward to seeing this completed.

[@InterstellarModeler]

I was definitely intimidated by lighting for a long time. Things have been made much easier with the smaller prewired components that are available. Give it a try some time. :) Thanks for watching.

[@dennisbisconti4583]

Oggie + I think this kit would be much better if they would have injected molded in clear styrene this way you could light up the primary hull just like in the TV show I am working on 3 different models on my work bench one is the 1/350 scale tos u.s.s. enterprise the other is the Eagle 2 22" the 3 one is the cyilon Rader from the original series 1/32 scale keep up the good work look at all of you videos

[@dalethelander3781]

Workroom's looking choice, my man!

[@InterstellarModeler]

thanks Dale

[@israelislaromero4079]

Good choice Oggie... the only thing I don’t want to do is use the lighting kit made for this ship! A better solution is to make your own lights and motors FX.👍

[@InterstellarModeler]

The lighting kit I think is a good option for those who arent interested in soldering and such but yes I do think that is definitely something to consider for this model. Thanks Israel

[@TheCajuntexan]

would love to see this in a 350 scale version

[@InterstellarModeler]

that would be a big model for sure. Thanks for watching

[@michaelbenjmitchell1]

@@InterstellarModeler Well seeing as this kit is in reality around 1/650 not 1/1000 scale and scales with the original AMT kit from the 60's they should be the same size in 1/350 scale.

[@LeMondeDeJudge]

the transparent plastic parts are painted white to give this nice light effect at the level of the saucer?

[@InterstellarModeler]

If you're asking as to why the windows were painted, there were two reasons. One was to obscure view of the model's interior through the larger windows and second, light diffusion. Thanks

[@michaelbenjmitchell1]

For those who don't know Paragrafix came out with a PE set for this kit while small has quite a few parts to help with lighting this kit as well as coming out with a 3D printed bridge module if you want to add a bridge to your kit for added detail.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks Michael

[@michaelbenjmitchell1]

@@InterstellarModeler BTW this kit is in reality 1/650 scale not 1/1000 so this will scale with the original AMT TOS kit. If that kit was really 1/1000 scale that would mean it was as large as a StarDestroyer if it was real!

[@jnichols3]

Cant stand STD, but I will say their ENTERPRISE looks better than the last three movie ENTERPRISEs.

[@InterstellarModeler]

it sure does

[@kevinobrien4807]

Do you think it would be too difficult to use the lighting strips rather than those little light bulbs?

[@InterstellarModeler]

No I dont think so. Probably would be easier.

[@johnblack9885]

Did you paint the window frames silver on the clear dome piece?

[@InterstellarModeler]

I didn’t.

[@nicholasdickens2801]

I love me a good Trek model.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Me too, thx for watching

[@alansankus9846]

I know you did this kit awhile ago but how did u paint a fanblds so well I trying but can't paint it straight any suggestions to help me with that

[@InterstellarModeler]

I painted them with Tamyia's clear red. See 6:38 in the video. Thanks

[@darrelld.paveyjr.1477]

Have you built and lit the "Bridge", either AMT or rerelease?

[@InterstellarModeler]

Other than the model I built years ago as a kid, I have not attempted it. It's quite a project to light one as you can imagine with all the control panels and screens. Not something I've been interested in taking on with so many other projects I have lined up. If you want to see one lit up like that, check out Trekworks. Boyd has done one and it turned out great, complete with sound effects

[@richraymer5580]

Do you have a link for that glue applicator? Never seen one like that? Great build!

[@InterstellarModeler]

I'm afraid not. This was made at a miniatures show by a mom and pop store/booth. The show didnt happen this year. Will keep you posted if I can find them again.

[@mikefalz66]

Just getting back into modeling after a few decades away and starting with this model. Thank you for the awesome and helpful video. I found the TrekWorks site as well, but could not find Star Trek Model Kit Previews. Did they rename the channel? Could you provide a link? Thanks again!!

[@InterstellarModeler]

I think this is the channel you’re referring to. And welcome back to the hobby. Here’s the link. kzbin.info/door/QZdlLJF21cWi5hpZwpoBAA

[@mikefalz66]

@@InterstellarModeler Apologies for not seeing the link in your video summary, the Apple KZbin App doesn’t show that text. I see all your links now that I’m in a browser. Thank you!!

[@starsiegeplayer]

The quick color stuff... is it an enamel?

[@InterstellarModeler]

yes

[@ashb1502]

What did you use to fog the bridge clear piece and the lower saucer clear piece?

[@InterstellarModeler]

Sorry the late response. I just painted it white from the inside. Thanks for watching

[@mimsnshine]

the lighting at end of nacelle is incredibly insanely done...vger needs the information

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks so much

[@robertmccombs8446]

Hey Oggie I was wondering if you can still send me the updated instructions for the 1000 scale discovery Aztec decals I know it’s a year late but I would really appreciate if thanks my friend

[@InterstellarModeler]

Hi Robert. I’m afraid I no longer have the instructions. I’m pretty sure u can contact Polar Lights to get a hold of them though. They’re usually very responsive. Hope that helps

[@robertmccombs8446]

Okay no problem I look forward to seeing your next build have an awesome day

[@JDRhoads09]

How are you suppose to light prime the inside if you aren't going to coat the outside? That spray paint, no matter what you do, is going to get onto the outside on the edges.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Hi Justin, if I understand you question correctly, I prime before application of the base color. Let me know if you have any other specific questions or if that answer isn't sufficient. Feel free to email me at interstellarmodeler@gmail, thanks

[@arnthorsnaer]

What kind of glue do you use?

[@InterstellarModeler]

I'm still using Testors Cement. I have a couple of bottles left of that stuff. Another alternative....Tamyia cement.

[@wraith20072007]

Can you list all the glues and paints used please?

[@InterstellarModeler]

Hi....the colors were Pewter and Gun Metal both from Folk Art. Unfortunately craft paint has become a bit scarce. Hopefully that will be remedied soon. As for adhesives, I mainly used Testors plastic cement. Occasionally used Gorilla glue Cyanoacrylate gel. Also used Canopy glue for the rectangular panels that I opened although in hindsight I would just place clear styrene under the open panel and leave it at that. Thanks

[@wraith20072007]

@@InterstellarModeler Thank you, much appreciated.

[@ljbutcher77]

I want to get one

[@InterstellarModeler]

its a great kit, thanks for the comment

[@pjherald6096]

I'm gonna Make Pj The Barbarian USS Cyberprise

[@InterstellarModeler]

Lol

[@kerryegbert5054]

I would be the discovery Enterprise by the way

[@InterstellarModeler]

Thanks Kerry

[@tubernator7]

Hi. I cannot get this one to load.

[@InterstellarModeler]

sorry you're having issues. Did you ever get this to work? Not having any problms on my end. Thanks

[@Tim-57]

Hey Oggie Looks great so far🙂 Shame about the lighting kit, people should not need to refigure or check how others have done it...oh well at least there is a way to help out on utube. Take care🙂

[@InterstellarModeler]

thanks Tim. Luckily it all turned out in the end

[@Tim-57]

@@InterstellarModeler Not sure it was luck Oggie🙂

[@laroark5036]

How much was the model ?

[@InterstellarModeler]

It’s been a while but I believe it was about $50?? I think they’re still available

[@playEADG1]

Looked great at first but they messed up. The Bridge is facing the wrong direction. It's not sitting at a 36° angle to port, congruent to the location of the elevator.

[@InterstellarModeler]

I'm afraid Disco doesnt have the best track record when it comes to cannon

[@RobotJeeg]

I though it was easier to build. Expecially with a lighting kit of the same brand of the kit.

[@InterstellarModeler]

Glad it worked out.....it's a good model. Thank you for watching

[@kerryegbert5054]

I love your channel I am a disabled I work part-time and I collect disability so I'm on a set income I used to do modeling as a therapy until most of the hobby shops in my area closed I have no hobby shop nearby I have a hard time ordering things online I'm really interested in the Enterprise the decals and the kit the light kit I would like to know if there's any way somebody can help me find an affordable kit with all three accessories and what it would cost thanks your friend kerry Egbert

[@InterstellarModeler]

Hi Kerry. Thanks for watching and for your comment. Sorry to hear about the closings of all the model shops around you. This unfortunately is a common occurrence. Your best bet in such situations is to fine a good model site online and there are a number of them. There is culttvman.com, HDAmodelworx.com, MegaHobby.com. All of these carry sci-fi related kits and supplies as well. There is also Ebay. A number of model shops have Ebay sites such as Brookhurst Hobbies up in Anaheim CA. I would shop around and see who has the best price. I don't see a lot of variation in price with the new Trek kits though. Hope that helps.

[@Bronxbombers161]

Sir, I am a disabled vet who was injured in Iraq. I do not have use of my right hand. Do you offer by chance services to those with disabilities to paint and build models. I’d live to have this in my man cave

[@InterstellarModeler]

Hi Billy. Thanks for asking. I’m afraid I dont build commissions. Just not enough time. But.....Can u email me at interstellarmodeler@gmail? I do have some suggestions. Thanks for watching

[@Bronxbombers161]

@@InterstellarModeler Sir, I sent a mail as requested

[@JustMe-gz4pu]

I wish Bandai had the Star Trek license. I hate the fit of Polar lights kits.

[@InterstellarModeler]

that would be cool

[@wfirebaugh]

aluminum foil is a good light blocker

[@InterstellarModeler]

appreciate the tip, thanks

[@Cainite]

God is that motor loud...

[@InterstellarModeler]

Actually they're not too bad considering. The sound is amplified by the camera unfortunately. Comparing them to the sound from the 350 scale motors, they're pretty soft.

[@gunplanut]

12 people are Klingons....

[@InterstellarModeler]

thx