My Childhood Dreams Have Come True!

Now, you can build your own fully functional R2-D2 in your spare time, controlled by voice recognition, cell phone, tablet or you can just let it run around in autonomous AI mode.

DeAgostini Model Space is offering a kit that will guide you through the assembly process for an accurate half-scale replica of the legendary astromech using components engineered to look just like the original Star Wars props – plus state-of-the-art modern electronic components.

Hobbyists who want to learn about robotics can order the kit as part of either a 12- or 25-month subscription. Each month, they’ll receive a shipment of parts from DeAgostini Model Space, as well as step-by-step assembly instructions and three magazines – Building The Galaxy, a behind-the-scenes look at the techniques used to construct and film the droids, ships, sets and creatures of all the Star Wars movies; Droid Directory which explores how R2-D2 fits into a Star Wars universe packed with droids built for every conceivable purpose, from providing medical care to waging war; and Understanding Robotics, which explains the technology behind the parts that you are assembling with illustrated articles to help you understand the function of the electronic and mechanical components, including things like sensors, motors, wi-fi, logic boards and more.

Standard subscriptions start at $64.99 per month for 25 months or $129.99 for 12 months. Premium subscriptions, which also include collectable Darth Vader, C-3PO and R2-D2 figurines, are available for $69.99 per month or $139.99 per month respectively. If you’re impatient, you can also get the whole kit at once for $1,599.

When your R2-D2 is complete, you will be able to download the special control app to your smartphone or tablet. Then fit the rechargeable batteries, switch on and connect R2-D2 to your wi-fi network. With his sensors, camera, microphones, sophisticated logic boards and powerful motors, R2-D2 can interact with his owner, move and behave just like the astromech from the Star Wars movies.