This is a High Definition 3D model of the J-2 engine used on the Saturn V second (S-II) and third (S-IVB) stages to launch man into earth orbit and onward to the moon.

Modelled with precision using blueprints, schematic diagrams and extensive photographic research.

Manufactured by the Rocketdyne division of North American Aviation, the J-2 is an upper stage engine producing 225,000 pounds of thrust, via the biopropellant mixture of liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX). The engine can be restarted in flight as was the case when after achieving earth orbit it was ignited a second time to propel the Apollo spacecraft toward the moon. Stabilising scissor ducts are used to support the fuel inlet bellows as they bend and rotate during engine gimbaling.

The J-2 could also serve as a general purpose engine for 3D modellers interested in designing more futuristic or fantasy spacecraft.

The Lightwave version of this model has morph targets for gimbaling the engine. Please download the attached video preview file to see this in action. For customers using other 3D applications, they can download the free LightWave Discovery version to view the Lightwave morph setup and apply it to their preferred 3D package using the FBX or OBJ morph target files included.

Created with Lightwave 9.6

USAGE
Suitable for HD video, high-res film close-ups and print
Accurate representation of J-2 engine using original imperial scale of feet and inches.

SPECS
Model contains the following:

1 object layer
45990 polygons
38344 quads, 7646 tris, and 0 ngons
Standard Lightwave materials & texture maps

PRESENTATION IMAGES
HDRI skydome used in preview images NOT included in file.
No Photoshop or compositing used for previews.

ZIP file includes Scene with default light & camera used for Signature image along with secondary Scene containing example gimbal animation using morph targets (HDRI skydome not included).
Preview Images rendered with default Lightwave 9.6 scanline renderer.

TEXTURES
For the LWO model both XYZ Projection and UV mapped versions are included:
2 bump maps (PNG format - original XYZ projection mapped LWO model) depict inner and outer engine bell surface corrugation details.
2 UV texture maps (PNG format) - colour and bump - UV mapped LWO and non-native FBX and OBJ formats.
Textures scaled at 36 pixels per foot.

GENERAL
Model built to real-world scale
Units used: Feet and Inches.

ANIMATIONS
Example morph targets for full engine gimballing are pre-set in Layout file (also see animation preview video files)