How many pieces does the Artemis SLS rocket set have?

The set contains 632 pieces with 157 unique parts, and it does not include any minifigures.

What real-world vehicle does this set represent?

It recreates NASA's Space Launch System, the rocket used for the Artemis Moon missions.

What colours stand out on the model?

White and light bluish grey form the base, with black and blue used as accent colours.

Technic

NASA Artemis Space Launch System Rocket

This Technic set recreates NASA's real Space Launch System, the rocket used under the Artemis programme for missions to the Moon. With 632 pieces and 157 unique parts, the 2026 set appeals to spaceflight fans and Technic builders alike.

Set number: 42221
Year: 2026
Pieces: 632
Minifigures: 0
Theme: Technic
Different parts: 157

What can I build with it?

View the official building instructions at LEGO® ↗

Parts list 157

As BrickLink list (XML)

Import on BrickLink: Wanted → Upload, upload the file (or paste its content), pick a Wanted List and add the parts.

Spare parts (20)

These extra parts come with the set in case one gets lost.

Alternative models

Fan models by Rebrickable users that you can build (mostly) from this set’s parts. Instructions are available from the designers.

All 2 ideas at Rebrickable ↗

What can I build with it?

Description

A real NASA rocket as a Technic model

The Space Launch System, or SLS, is the real rocket NASA uses under the Artemis programme to send astronauts and equipment toward the Moon, and it ranks among the most powerful rockets ever built. Unlike most Technic sets, which recreate fictional vehicles or machinery, this model is based on an actual, well-documented spaceflight programme rather than anything from a film or television series. That makes it particularly interesting for anyone drawn to real spaceflight engineering rather than science-fiction rockets. At 632 pieces, the set is large enough for a recognisable rocket silhouette complete with the typical boosters and stages.

632 pieces, 157 unique parts

With 157 unique parts across 632 pieces, this Technic set relies more on a precise, technical core structure than on a very high count of specialised elements, which fits the nature of rocket models generally. A rocket's body is mostly made up of cylindrical, repeating segments that together create its characteristic elongated shape, supplemented by targeted detailing on the engines and boosters. For Technic fans, that means a build that places real value on clean, symmetrical construction, using classic Technic techniques such as connector pins and axles to bring stability. Anyone who enjoys true-to-life models will find a fitting project here.

Black, blue and white, like the real rocket

The colour palette of black, blue, white and light bluish grey clearly nods to the real SLS rocket's livery, which is best known for its orange external tank and white solid rocket boosters, though this set reinterprets that look through its own combination of black, blue and white. White and light bluish grey cover large sections of the rocket's surface, while black and blue serve as accent colours on the engines, boosters and technical details. That colour combination gives the model a clean, technical appearance that sits well alongside other Technic vehicles and machines on a shelf.

A model for technical and spaceflight fans

This set includes no minifigures, which is standard across Technic sets generally and keeps the focus entirely on the rocket's technical construction rather than on play scenes with figures. For fans of real-world spaceflight, particularly the Artemis programme and NASA's lunar missions, this set offers a rare chance to experience a current, well-documented spaceflight project in brick form. It also works well alongside other Technic or space-themed sets on a shelf, since it stands clearly apart from fictional science-fiction rockets. The full parts list on this page sets out the size, colours and part breakdown in detail before you decide to buy.

FAQ

How many pieces does the Artemis SLS rocket set have?: The set contains 632 pieces with 157 unique parts, and it does not include any minifigures.
What real-world vehicle does this set represent?: It recreates NASA's Space Launch System, the rocket used for the Artemis Moon missions.
What colours stand out on the model?: White and light bluish grey form the base, with black and blue used as accent colours.