Transition between elliptical and arch-shaped cross sections (space shuttle)

[Pipcard]

I've been trying to model the cancelled Japanese space shuttle "HOPE-X" based on this reference.

What I got was this. Ugly, isn't it?


This is what it's supposed to look like.


As you can see, the front is dome shaped. The top half of the dome gradually transitions to an arch shape, while the bottom half gradually transitions to a flat bottom.

Here's what I have so far,


but I'm not sure what to do next.

[Stem]

Hi Pipcard,

For those transition shapes, I normally use "Bridge" with "Flow connect"

For simple example.

I create the first cross section shape. I have made a arch shape, the edge going around the shape are (approximately) evenly spaced (it can help for flow connect). I then created a cylinder with the same number of edges (so Bridge gives correct result)



Bridge the 2 inner faces.



Select the edge ring around the bridge and use "LMB > Flow connect"
(if the result is not as expected, use "RMB > Flow connect" and adjust as needed)



Select the edge rings around the extrusion (both sides of the new edge loop, and use "LMB > Flow connect". Repeat until you have the number of edge loops you need.



For the dome on the end. Select the end face and scale/move as required.



Select the edge ring, and again use "LMB > Flow connect". (Repeat for number of loops required)



The result should give you a reasonable transition.



I know the shapes used for the cross sections are not the same as you want, but I was just showing how I make such a transition.

[micheus]

Stem, just taking in account reference image I would suggest to use a half sphere for the nose - just create a sphere with the same number of slices you have in the body piece, then using Put On to "glue" it in the body.

[Pipcard]

Thanks for the help!