LEGO Technic Space sets hark back to a long-dormant sub-theme

LEGO Technic has a flurry of space-themed sets coming in 2024 that have a flair all of their own – but are also reminiscent of a dormant sub-theme.

Four LEGO Technic sets are taking a trip into outer space, covering everything from a futuristic spaceship in 42181 VTOL Heavy Cargo Spaceship LT81 to a revolving model that depicts how the Earth and moon orbit the sun in 42179 Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit. Each set includes the typical Technic elements and working features that we know and love from the theme but there's also a unified colour scheme across all of the sets that only reminds us of a LEGO Space sub-theme that's been left untouched for years.

LEGO Space Mars Mission was a collection of sets released in 2007 and 2008 and, as the name would suggest, was a collection of sets geared towards exploring new planets. The sub-theme included sets covering everything from mining units and drills to spaceships and on-the-ground bases.

The big chunky wheels, white and orange frames, and widespread use of Technic parts with exposed mechanisms are all features that are carried through into the LEGO Technic Space wave. The only features that are missing are the more fantastical inclusions of green aliens, as seen in 7645 MT-61 Crystal Reaper.

The similarities with the sub-theme from nearly 15 years ago have already attracted the attention of fans who remember LEGO Space Mars Mission, particularly when it comes to the play features on all of the LEGO Technic sets. As you'd expect from LEGO Technic sets, all the sets are functional, with working steering (where applicable), turning cogs, and mobile wings in 42181 VTOL Heavy Cargo Spaceship LT81.

While there's no sign that the LEGO Group is making a formal return to the classic LEGO Space theme, the similarities between the upcoming sets and the sub-theme highlight an appreciation for the nostalgia many LEGO fans feel. The classic Space branding present on LEGO Technic, City, Friends, and even DUPLO sets is designed to draw the attention of long-term LEGO fans, who are then rewarded with deep cuts like this one. You might not be able to easily find LEGO Space Mars Missions sets anymore, but these LEGO Technic sets will scratch that itch anyway.

For fans of other classic themes, space isn't the only area that the LEGO Group might be revisiting in 2024. LEGO City and Friends are rumoured to be revisiting the Jungle sub-theme next year, while LEGO Build a Minifigure elements might be featuring a return to the iconic Lion Knight design. All in all, it seems that decade-long fans of LEGO might be seeing some parts and themes they recognise more and more in the coming months and years.

All four of the LEGO Technic space-themed sets will launch on March 1, 2024, alongside 42169 NEOM McLaren Formula E Race Car and 42170 Kawasaki Ninja H2R. Here's a summary of every LEGO Technic set confirmed for 2024.

Every LEGO Technic set confirmed for 2024

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