Artemis II 3D Model Downloads: STL Files for Lunar Exploration

Lisa Ernst · 03.04.2026 · Technology · 9 min

From the moment I first saw images of a rocket launch, I was captivated by the sheer power and ingenuity involved in lifting humans beyond Earth's gravity. Now, as NASA plans to send astronauts around the Moon with Artemis II, that fascination has found a new outlet: 3D printing. The ability to hold a tangible, scaled-down replica of the very spacecraft poised to make history offers a unique connection to this monumental endeavor.

Source: This graphic illustrates the mighty Artemis II Space Launch System launching through space, with Earth, the Moon, and stars in the background.

The NASA Artemis program aims to return humans to the Moon by the mid-2020s, marking a significant step in space exploration. The Artemis II mission specifically represents the first crewed lunar flyby since the Apollo era, with its launch anticipated in April 2026. This mission captures the imagination of many, and for those who embrace the world of 3D printing, it offers an opportunity to engage directly with the hardware and science behind this next chapter in lunar travel.

Quick Summary: Artemis II 3D Models for Printing

Looking to 3D print a piece of space history? Here is a quick overview of available Artemis II related models:

• Official NASA Resources: Free 3D models, including printable ones, are available on NASA’s 3D Resources platform and mirrored on GitHub.
• Magnetic SLS Model (Printables.com): A simplified, magnetic model of the Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) by "TotallyRidiculous," designed to demonstrate launch stages.
• Functional Mini Desktop Launcher (MakerWorld): A detailed, free model with an integrated mechanical "Launch" button, replicating the Core Stage, boosters, Orion capsule, and a scaled mobile launch tower.
• Block 1 SLS Configuration (Creality Cloud): A single-piece model of the NASA SLS Rocket’s Block 1 configuration, ideal for a simpler print.
• Color-Separated SLS Model (Printables.com): A version by tomljr2 designed for printing in distinct colors without painting, based on official NASA models.
• European Service Module (ESM) (Printables.com): A highly detailed 1:100 scale model of the Orion space capsule’s ESM by OsyPrint, featuring switchable solar panels.
• Jeremy Hansen Astronaut Model (Cults3D): A portrait bust of Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, available as an STL file for purchase.
• Large-Scale 1:100 Artemis Model (MakerWorld): An impressive 1-meter-tall detailed model for those seeking a larger display piece.
• HueForge Artemis-II Mission Patch (MakerWorld): A commemorative 3D printable patch requiring specific filaments for accurate color blending.

Educational Resources and Official Models

NASA maintains a "3D Resources" platform, providing a collection of 3D models, including printable ones, available for free download and use. This platform, accessible at NASA's 3D Resources page, hosts models related to various NASA missions, mirroring content also found on GitHub. Among the featured assets is an intricately designed Gateway Lunar Space Station model, alongside numerous other space-related objects. These official resources allow enthusiasts and educators to access authentic designs for their projects.

Detailed Artemis II Models

Several specialized 3D printable models for the Artemis II mission have emerged from the maker community. One notable example is a simplified, magnetic model of the Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) on Printables.com, created by "TotallyRidiculous." This model is optimized for 3D printing and separates into individual launch stages, allowing users to demonstrate the rocket's progression.

The stages include:

• The Launch Abort System (two parts)
• Crew Module
• Service Module
• Spacecraft Adapter
• Interim Cryogenic Propulsion
• Launch Vehicle Stage Adapter
• Solid Rocket Booster
• Core Stage (with and without engines)

It requires 24 to 28 round magnets (6mm x 2mm) for assembly, culminating in a 30 cm tall model. The Launch Abort System uses a piece of 1.75 mm filament for connection, while the Core Stage, also split into two parts, features holes for four pieces of 1.75 mm filament to join its sections.

Functional Mini Desktop Launcher

Another detailed option is a free 3D printable model of the Artemis II, described as a "Functional Mini Desktop Launcher," available on MakerWorld. This MakerWorld model of the Artemis SLS incorporates an integrated launch mechanism activated by a mechanical "Launch" button. It meticulously replicates the Core Stage, boosters, Orion capsule, and a scaled mobile launch tower, with minimal supports and straightforward assembly. Suggested print settings are a 0.2 mm layer height, two walls, and 15% infill. This approximately 22.86 cm (9 inches) tall model requires about 32 grams of filament and takes roughly 3 hours and 45 minutes to print.

Source: artstation.com

This image features two 3D-printed models of the Artemis SLS rocket and its launch tower, showcasing the intricate details possible with a "functional mini desktop launcher" design.

Block 1 Configuration

A more straightforward model, representing the Block 1 configuration of the NASA Space Launch System (SLS) Rocket, can be found on Creality Cloud. This Creality Cloud model, utilized for the uncrewed Artemis I mission in 2022 and intended for the crewed Artemis II test flight in April 2026, prints as a single, non-disassemblable piece. It clearly distinguishes the rocket's main components: the white solid rocket boosters on the sides, the brown/orange Core Stage carrying fuel, and the white upper Orion space capsule where the crew resides. Approximately 22.86 cm (9 inches) tall, this model also requires about 32 grams of filament and a print time of around 3 hours and 45 minutes, with minimal support material needed.

Color-Separated SLS Rocket Model

For those seeking color accuracy without painting, tomljr2 offers a color-separated SLS rocket model on Printables.com, based on the official NASA sls-block1-2017 model. This version is designed for printing in distinct colors. Specific parts like OrionMPCV.stl, CoreStage.stl, and SRB.stl require supports, while BaseWithEngines.stl and CoreStageBottom.stl might need supports for overhangs. Base.stl and Engines.stl generally print without supports. It is also recommended to print CoreStage.stl and SRB.stl with a brim to prevent tipping.

The European Service Module and Astronaut Models

The European Service Module (ESM) of the Orion space capsule also has a highly detailed, 1:100 scale 3D printable model available on Printables.com, created by OsyPrint. This ESM model, relevant to the Artemis II mission, allows for easy switching between deployed and stowed solar panels. It does not require a Multi-Material Unit (MMU) or painting. The ESM module measures about 5 cm long, with a wingspan of roughly 20 cm when solar panels are extended. Composed of 42 individual parts designed for printing in six different colors, its assembly is quick, requiring only superglue and about half an hour, with a detailed PDF instruction manual included. A corresponding Crew Module can be downloaded for free.

Jeremy Hansen Astronaut Model

Beyond the spacecraft itself, individuals can even obtain a 3D model of Jeremy Hansen, a Canadian astronaut and crew member of the NASA Artemis II Mission. More information on his role can be found on the NASA website. Hansen represents the international collaboration in human space exploration beyond Earth's orbit. An STL file for a 3D printable model of Jeremy Hansen became available on Cults3D on April 2, 2026, for $8.09. This model, design number 4220190, was created by SimpleFigurines, reflecting Cults3D's commitment to supporting creators.

Source: todocanada.ca

This image features a close-up headshot of Jeremy Hansen, a Canadian astronaut and crew member for the NASA Artemis II Mission.

Large-Scale and Commemorative Models

For those desiring a larger display piece, MakerWorld hosts a 1:100 scale Artemis model, standing approximately 1 meter high. This detailed model for the Artemis II (SLS) mission leaves minimal markings on the model itself, allowing users to apply logos with transfer foil. It suggests print settings of 0.2 mm layer height, two walls, and 10% infill.

HueForge Artemis-II Mission Patch

Finally, to commemorate the mission, a HueForge Artemis-II Mission Patch is available as a free 3D printable model on MakerWorld. This intricate patch requires specific filaments to achieve accurate color blending, with recommended print settings of 0.08 mm layer height, one wall, and 100% infill. Printables.com also hosts a "NASA Artemis Space Project" model by SIMGAU, offering another avenue for enthusiasts.

Model Comparison Table

Here is a comparison of some popular Artemis II 3D models:

Conclusion

The upcoming Artemis II mission represents a pivotal moment in humanity's return to lunar exploration. Through the accessibility of 3D printing, individuals can now interact with this historic endeavor in a tangible way, constructing detailed replicas of the spacecraft, modules, and even astronaut figures. These 3D models serve not only as engaging hobbies but also as educational tools, bringing the complexities of space travel down to an accessible, personal scale.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)