Antonov AN225 Buran Shuttle CCCP-82060

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Antonov AN225 Buran Shuttle CCCP-82060 model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 8-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Antonov AN225 Buran Shuttle CCCP-82060 is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful, finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model air and spacecraft match the precise blueprint details of the original version. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original craft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for every Space or Science Fiction enthusiast and avid Spaceship or Scifi collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual Antonov AN225 Buran Shuttle CCCP-82060 model.
If you require, we can also make the Antonov AN225 Buran Shuttle CCCP-82060 model in any other markings, livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary, in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce Gerry Anderson models, model airship, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat, and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

Antonov AN-225 Mriya: The Giant of the Skies and Its Historic Buran Shuttle Mission

The Antonov AN-225 Mriya, often referred to as the “Dream” in Ukrainian, is a colossal cargo aircraft that has captivated aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike since its maiden flight in 1988. This six-engine behemoth holds the distinction of being the largest and heaviest aircraft in the world. One of its most noteworthy missions was its involvement in transporting the Soviet space shuttle Buran, showcasing the AN-225’s unparalleled capacity and versatility.

The Birth of the Antonov AN-225: Designed by the Ukrainian company Antonov, the AN-225 was originally created to transport the Soviet space shuttle, Buran, as well as other oversized payloads. The project was initiated in the 1980s as part of the Soviet Union’s ambitious space program. The aircraft’s massive size and payload capacity were driven by the need to carry the Buran shuttle on its back.

Key Features and Specifications:

1. Size and Payload Capacity: The AN-225 boasts an impressive wingspan of 88.4 meters (290 feet) and a length of 84 meters (275 feet). It can carry a maximum payload of 640 metric tons, making it an unrivaled heavy-lift aircraft.
2. Six Turbofan Engines: Powered by six ZMKB Progress D-18 turbofan engines, the AN-225 generates a colossal amount of thrust, enabling it to carry its massive payloads over long distances.
3. Twin Tail Design: The distinctive twin tail configuration provides stability and control, especially during the loading and unloading of oversized cargo.

Buran Shuttle Mission:

The AN-225 gained international recognition when it was tasked with transporting the Soviet space shuttle Buran in 1989. The Buran was the Soviet response to the U.S. Space Shuttle program, and the AN-225 was designed specifically to carry this spaceplane on its upper fuselage. The historic flight took place on May 13, 1989, when the AN-225 successfully transported the Buran from the Zhukovsky Airfield to the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

The AN-225’s involvement in the Buran mission showcased its capability to carry exceptionally large and heavy payloads. The sight of the massive aircraft with the space shuttle on its back remains an iconic image in the history of aviation and space exploration.

Post-Buran Operations:

Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the AN-225 found new roles in commercial cargo transportation, carrying oversized and heavy payloads for various clients around the world. Its unique capabilities made it a valuable asset for transporting items such as generators, wind turbine blades, and even other aircraft components.

Legacy and Impact:

The Antonov AN-225 Mriya’s legacy extends beyond its record-breaking size and payload capacity. It symbolizes the pinnacle of Soviet aerospace engineering and remains a testament to the ingenuity of Antonov’s design team. Although only one AN-225 was built, its impact on the field of heavy-lift aviation and its historic Buran mission solidify its place in the annals of aviation history.

Conclusion:

The Antonov AN-225 Mriya continues to capture the imagination of aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its remarkable design, historic Buran shuttle mission, and ongoing contributions to heavy-cargo transportation make it a true giant of the skies and a symbol of the capabilities that can be achieved in the world of aerospace engineering.