5 Best Model Spacecraft Kits - May 2026

BEST OF THE BEST

LEGO

Creator Expert NASA Apollo 11 Lunar Lander

Most Historic

Relive the greatest achievement of its time with this model of the Apollo 11 lunar lander, the Eagle.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

Produced and designed in cooperation with NASA for the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing.
Features separate ascent and descent stages just like the real thing.
Comes with stylized lunar surface base and 2 astronaut minifigures.

CONS

Not intended for ages below 16.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

Metal Earth

Fascinations Kepler Spacecraft 3D Metal Model Kit

Intricate Assembly

This sleek, eye-catching model of the Kepler space telescope is made of real steel.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

Stamped steel sheets requires no glue or solder to put together.
Highly detailed etched surfaces.
Elements fit flush.
Creates eye-catching décor or objet d'art for home or office.

CONS

A little small.
Difficult to assemble.
Doesn't come with stand.

LEGO

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Kit

Best for Kids

Its easy assembly makes this kit an ideal introduction for kids interested in building models.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

Kit has 269 pieces, instructions, 2 minifigures, decal stickers, spring-loaded shooters, cockpit, and rotating canons.
Easy to assemble.
Sturdy, durable construction.
For play or display.

CONS

Building may be too easy for more experienced fans.

Pegasus Hobby

1/48 Martian War Machine Kit

Iconic Aliens

One of the most iconic alien spacecraft ever imagined comes to life at 1/48 scale.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

Model kit with snap-out plastic parts is easy to build compared to some others.
Transparent plastic elements provide depth and visual interest.
Lends itself to mods, such as lighting.
Comes with display stand.

CONS

Does not come with specific paint kit.

National Geographic

Space Explorers Set Solar Model Kit

Solar Motors

Learn critical thinking skills while assembling these solar-powered models.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

Solar-powered motors with included panels actually work.
Constructed out of stamp-out wood with sandpaper included.
Intricate, detailed build.
Comes with detailed learning guide.

CONS

Needs strong direct sunlight to move.

Why trust BestReviews?

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews

How We Tested

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

Click here for testing insights

First Reviewed

January 02, 2022

Models
considered

Hours
researched