(Derelict) Space Fighter

I am wrapping this one up and calling it done! Over the past few weeks I've been exploring this type of ship design - and you can catch up with the thumbs and progress sketches by checking out my previous blog posts.

While I started off drawing an agile space 'fighter' I ended up framing this illustration as a recovery or inspection of a derelict ship adrift in space. Hopefully in the further future I will be able to revisit this branch of design and better demonstrate some of its physical characteristics.

WIP GIF

This model carries 12 missiles (one is missing) on its side ready for release and 2 laser cannons. The end of each axis can spin freely around the central trunk and houses a primary thruster in addition to 3 folding and articulated vectoring thrusters. And while we are here making stuff up they can also tear holes in space time for FTL travel... Why not!?

A thanks goes out to the guys who helped me on this, especially Nick who suggested changing the spotlights from being on the astronaut to on the ship behind.

Space Fighter WIP - March 10th 2015

Some more baby steps! I decided to trash the telescope and replaced it with an open airlock to toss in additional narrative.  I might be ready for 'atmosphere', debris, decals and details as I turn the corner for the home stretch in the next day or two!

There will be a lot of color corrections and work done on the mood and tone as well - but I am feeling that out as I go.

Any suggestions and feedback would be appreciated as always!

Sketches - Feb 28th 2015

Wanted to post up some work in progress shots before heading out to GDC this next week. I wish I had another day to finish it up but oh well - See you all in SF!

Needed to break and reset some arms and legs - and didn't have the time to block model out first.

Not at all done but Im starting to play around with the lighting and materials a bit.