Series 26 Astronaut - Orion with Transparent Purple Shield
71046-5 · Collectible Minifigures
Series 26 - Space · 2024 - Released in May, following LEGO's major push for Space-themed content across multiple themes including City, Technic, and Friends.
Figure ID
71046-5
Theme
Collectible Minifigures
Year Released
2024 - Released in May, following LEGO's major push for Space-themed content across multiple themes including City, Technic, and Friends.
Rarity
Uncommon - While mass-produced, this figure is part of a blind-box series (CMF), meaning specific items are harder to find than standard retail sets despite being technically available in equal ratios to other figs in a case.
Head
Double-sided flesh-toned head with a calm expression on one side and a battle-ready expression on the other. Features a unique purple and blue shimmering print on the hair piece to represent cosmic energy.
Torso
Features highly detailed astronaut suit printing with purple and silver cosmic accents. Includes printed control panels and life support systems on the front and back under a specialized transparent purple armor piece.
Legs
Printed legs with silver and purple detailing, representing heavy armored space boots and utility plating.
Accessories
A specialized transparent purple shield, a club or mace with a trans-purple head, and a display stand printed with a space star pattern.
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of Pearl Gold, Metallic Silver, and Transparent Purple, evoking a 'Constellation' or 'Galaxy' aesthetic.
Printing Details
Exceptional precision pad printing. The transparency of the armor and shield combined with the metallic silver on the torso represents some of LEGO's highest quality control for 2024.
Variants
Standard Series 26 release; no official manufacturing variants have been documented yet, though factory printing shifts on the head are uncommon.
Condition Notes
Prone to scratches on the transparent purple shield and armor. The cardboard boxes (scanned in image) are difficult to open without tearing, making 'Mint in Box' status harder to maintain compared to old foil bags.
Estimated Value
$5.00 - $7.00 USD (Used/Complete), $6.00 - $10.00 USD (New in Box). Price is stable due to high current supply.
Price (New)
$4.99 USD per blind box retail price.
Compatible Sets
Set 71046 (Minifigures Series 26 Space), appearing in individual boxes, 6-packs, and 36-unit counter displays.
Character Background
Inspired by the Orion constellation, the figure represents a cosmic warrior or celestial guardian, often interpreted by fans as a 'Space Paladin.'
Design Notes
Uses the newer 'Data Matrix' code system on the bottom of boxes (shown in image) which allows collectors to identify the contents without opening them using scanning apps.
Similar Minifigures
Space Police 3 commanders, Series 17 Retro Spaceman, and the Series 26 M-Tron or Ice Planet Redux figures.
Collectibility
High demand. Space is a legacy theme for AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO), and the Orion figure is a standout due to the unique transparent purple parts.
History
Part of the transition from plastic foil bags to sustainable cardboard boxes. This figure represents the first dedicated CMF series entirely focused on the Space sub-theme since LEGO's inception.
Interesting Facts
The code 714R6 on the box in the image is a factory production code. Small Data Matrix codes next to it can be scanned with 'Minifigure Scanner' apps to reveal identity '5'—marking it specifically as Orion.
Display Suggestions
Looks best under UV or bright LED lighting to catch the transparent purple elements. Pairs perfectly with the Galaxy Explorer (10497) or other 2024 Space sets.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'Space Fantasy' MOCs. The transparent purple armor is highly compatible with Blacktron or custom 'magic' builds.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier CMF entry for 2024. The combination of cosmic thematic elements and rare-color translucent parts makes it a must-have for specialized Space collectors.