F-4D Skyray NOTS, China Lake, 1/72 Airfix/MPC
Project Pilot conducted by Naval Ordinance Test Center{N.O.T.S.} in 1958, nick named NOTSNIK, was an attempt to air launch a satellite via rocket from a F-4D Skyray. Although there were several launches, none are believed to have really reached orbit, it was to be replaced by the follow on Caleb project.
I used the MPC boxing of the Airfix kit, Starfighter decals, and scratch built the rocket. Testors rattle can orange and whats left of my MM gloss sea blue, rattle can. The last shot is of Douglas aircraft post WW2.
Very cool subject as always, Robert! Love that bright orange over the blue...
Unique subject and color scheme. I like how it turned out!
Interesting subject, nicely done Robert.
Nicely done. And a great collection of period aircraft!
Very nicely done, Robert!
Love the chosen scheme and the story behind it!
Beautiful build, Robert @roofrat
Love the scheme and the story behind it.
Nice job, Robert. Simple and clean. The blue/orange look great amongst all that gray.
Love it Robert!
Nice build, looks great in this scheme and nice job on the scratch built rocket.
I like this one a lot, Robert.
Really nice, Robert (@roofrat). MPC Skyray is well done, as is the scratchbuilt missile/rocket. Your paint work is outstanding. I also got the decal from Starfighter because the paint scheme is very cool. Hopefully after I move to my new house I can take a crack at this conversion.
Great looking Skyray, Robert. Very nice paint scheme.
Great work with the rattle cans and the scratch built ordinance.
Gotta love those ol' MPC/Airfix kits.
Robert, @roofrat
This looks really cool in these colors. I learned something new here about the satellites and how they were attempting to get them into orbit. Thanks !
Years ago I worked at the Cape, and it was an awesome experience. Being around that much history was something else... It's too bad they have discontinued the majority of the Model Master paint line... That was my go to paint for everything.
Thanks for sharing this one and it's story with us. It really looks great, and by the looks of things, your collection is growing. Well done my friend. I definitely pressed the "liked" button.
Stay safe ! ๐
๐ ... Greetings ... ๐ :
Nice build Robert.
The model and the project at those times for sure make for
a good conversation.
Excellent results !
Thatโs a nice group of navy aircraft. Makes me think of my visits to Pensacola , Florida Navy museum there.
Thanks guys!
Nice โCrateโ Robert. I love that plane. Your model look really good.
How did you scratch build the missile ? I guess lots of pieces and parts. The art of the modeler is to make with what one has On hand.
Thanks, front section of a fuel tank, I forget what model, Four small rocket pods trimmed to suit, Fins from a sacrificial F-105 wing tank. Glue and filler.I neglected putting nozzles on the rear of the missile. Actually Starfighter offers a resin kit of the rocket, but I chose the cheap seats.@bernardbedeur
Now there's a great scheme for a Skyray! I'd never seen that livery - great job on it!