LEGO Technic 2024 space sets include a special air-lock element

A special air-lock element will be included in a trio of LEGO Technic 2024 space sets, allowing them to be connected to other compatible models.

Listings for six new LEGO Technic sets were added to the official online store today, with a mix of real-world and space-based builds all due for release on March 1, 2024. Of particular interest are a trio of models that were created in close collaboration with NASA, 42178 Surface Space Loader LT78, 42180 Mars Crew Exploration Rover and 42181 VTOL Heavy Cargo Spaceship LT81.

As well as being based on vehicles that could theoretically exist in the near future and be used for space exploration, the upcoming LEGO Technic sets also have something else in common. Details of the listings reveal that each of the builds will include a special air-lock element that can be used to connect other compatible models.

While there’s no specific information on the feature, official images of the LEGO Technic sets do give us an initial idea of what to expect. The back of each box shows a diagram in the top-right corner, with two grey sections connected via an orange element. A QR code can also be scanned for more details, but for now it only takes you to the LEGO Kids homepage.

In 42178 Surface Space Loader LT78, the orange air-lock section appears to be a separate build that can be picked up and moved by the craft. 42181 VTOL Heavy Cargo Spaceship LT81 features an air-lock as part of its cargo pod, with a side ramp allowing the mini space rover to park inside. There’s no sign of the air-lock in 42180 Mars Crew Exploration Rover, but the same functionality is shown on the back of the box for the set, so it must be lurking in there somewhere.

We’ll know more when all three LEGO Technic sets land on March 1, 2024, where they’ll be joined by 42169 NEOM McLaren Formula E Race Car, 42170 Kawasaki Ninja H2R Motorcycle and 42179 Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit. You can find out more about the upcoming LEGO Technic space sets in our recent designer videos here and here.

Every LEGO Technic set confirmed for 2024

Support the work that Brick Fanatics does by purchasing your LEGO using our affiliate links. Thanks!