I was impressed with the simple space station that was also a lander. But I wanted something to be bigger and more realistic. About 10 years ago, I came up with a design that was inspired by the model spacecraft USS PILGRIM. Using an old Playmospace station, I used as a hub that also had cylinder habitats that connected as well as escape capsules for the crew, should there be an emergency. Safety first in Space...ALWAYS. My design also included a stem that contained fuel and oxygen cells as well as water. All in all, I thought it to be very realistic and within our grasp of being able to accomplish the mission of space exploration.
Cut to 10 years later , it seems Playmobil was inspired by my design and kicked it up a notch. To say I am thrilled is an understatement. Finally, someone at Playmobil saw what I was trying to accomplish and took it a step further. I had sent Playmobil designs and suggestions and the reasoning behind my ideas because I was disappointed that they were playing it safe and not truly stepping up their creativity and showing what they could really accomplish. Hans Beck has always been a personal hero and inspiration. This is just an incredible looking toy playset that was really well thought out. Obviously there were changes but there are more similarities as well. I have written to Playmobil to at least get an acknowledgment out of it, maybe a few free toys for my contribution to this incredible line. One can hope. My design for the Rover was also well received
