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German Science Professor Transforms University Observatory into Giant Replica of R2-D2

Giant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert Zitt

Fan of Star Wars and electrotechnology professor of the German Zweibrücken University of Applied Sciences, Hubert Zitt is known for adding a sci-fi spin to his lectures. But in September 2018, he took his love of the iconic franchise to the next level by transforming the Zweibrück Observatory of the Natural Science Association into a giant replica of R2-D2.

Luckily, the dome-shaped structure already has a form resembling Star Wars’ loveable droid. Zitt had the help of his father-in-law, Horst Helle, painter Klaus Ruffing, and several helpful students to give the observatory a transformational lick of paint. Photos of the impressive blue and white design have been shared by science fiction fans everywhere, and even Star Wars actor Mark Hamill tweeted about it. In jest he wrote, “R2-D2 Observatory Transformed Germans Into Giant Nerds.”

In fact, Zitt is so knowledgeable in the field of science fiction that during 2005, he lectured in numerous other universities as well as Europe’s biggest Science Fiction Convention, FedCon. In 2008, he wrote the preface of the book Star Trek in Germany, and in the same year, the professor also became a regular lecturer at the The University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas teaching “The Physics of Star Trek.”

Professor Hubert Zitt transformed the Zweibrück Observatory of the Natural Science Association into a giant replica of R2-D2.

Giant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert Zitt

The avid sci-fi fan had the help of his father-in-law, Horst Helle, painter Klaus Ruffing, and several helpful students to give the observatory a transformational lick of paint.

Giant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert Zitt

Photos of their design have been shared by sci-fi fans all over the world.

Giant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert ZittGiant R2-D2 Replica by Hubert Zitt

Even Star Wars actor Mark Hamill tweeted about it.

Zweibrücken University of Applied Sciences / Hochschule Kaiserslautern: Website | Facebook
h/t: [Design You Trust, Laughing Squid, Bored Panda]

All images via Zweibrücken University of Applied Sciences / Hochschule Kaiserslautern.

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Emma Taggart

Emma Taggart is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. Originally from Northern Ireland, she is an artist now based in Berlin. After graduating with a BA in Fashion and Textile Design in 2013, Emma decided to combine her love of art with her passion for writing. Emma has contributed to various art and culture publications, with an aim to promote and share the work of inspiring modern creatives. While she writes every day, she’s also devoted to her own creative outlet—Emma hand-draws illustrations and is currently learning 2D animation.
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