Blacktron 2 (Future Generation) Astronaut
sp001 · Space
Blacktron 2 (Blacktron Future Generation) · 1991 (Context: Debuted as part of the second generation of Blacktron, replacing the original 1987-1988 sleek black and yellow aesthetic with a more industrialized white and neon green look).
Figure ID
sp001
Theme
Space
Year Released
1991 (Context: Debuted as part of the second generation of Blacktron, replacing the original 1987-1988 sleek black and yellow aesthetic with a more industrialized white and neon green look).
Rarity
Common for vintage collectors. While discontinued for over 30 years, it was mass-produced in numerous sets during the early 90s. High-quality preserved specimens are becoming harder to find.
Head
Standard yellow classic smiley face (two eyes and a smile) topped with a black pilot/racing helmet and a black visor (trans-neon green visors were also used in specific sets).
Torso
Black torso with white 'B' logo and mechanical circuitry printing on the front. This specific image shows the back of the figure, featuring white vertical vents and a power pack harness design. Arms and hands are black.
Legs
Plain black legs without printing. Standard hip piece in black.
Accessories
Usually paired with air tanks (black) and often tools like wrenches or blasters in sets. The helmet and visor are the primary gear bits included in the basic figure assembly.
Color Scheme
Primary color is black with white line-art printing. This theme is famous for its association with 'Trans-Neon Green' elements in the sets, though the figure itself is monochrome black and white.
Printing Details
Pad printing on the front and back of the torso. Detail level is high for the era, utilizing fine white lines to represent an exoskeleton or life-support harness on the back.
Variants
Variants usually involve the visor color (solid black vs. trans-neon green) or the air tanks (present vs. absent). The torso printing remained consistent across most Blacktron 2 releases.
Condition Notes
The white torso printing is prone to 'fading' or 'rubbing off' from play. The most common wear point is the neck ring (cracking) and the gold or white printing on the chest. The back printing shown in the image is prone to scratching from air tank attachments.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $4 - $7 USD. New/Mint: $15 - $25 USD. Individual Torso: $2 - $3 USD. Values fluctuate based on the stiffness of joints and the crispness of the white torso print.
Price (New)
N/A - Primarily sold in sets ranging from the $3.00 (Meteor Monitor 1462) to the $80.00 (Alpha Centauri Outpost 6988).
Compatible Sets
6988 Alpha Centauri Outpost, 6933 Spectral Starguider, 6887 Allied Avenger, 6878 Sub Orbital Guardian, 6981 Blacktron Aerial Intruder, and many more.
Character Background
The Blacktron 2 astronauts were the 'villains' or 'rogues' of the early 90s LEGO Space era. They were known for their modular, interchangeable vehicle technology and were rivals to the Space Police II and M:Tron factions.
Design Notes
This figure marked a departure from the 'solid black' look of the first Blacktron generation (SP054). The use of white ink on black plastic was quite sophisticated for 1991, offering high contrast and a 'wireframe' digital look.
Similar Minifigures
Blacktron 1 Astronaut (sp054), M:Tron Astronaut (sp033), Space Police II Officer (sp038).
Collectibility
High for '90s kids' and Space sub-theme completionists. It represents a pivot point in LEGO's history where factions became more distinct through complex printing.
History
Launched in 1991 to replace the original Blacktron. It was the first time LEGO 'rebooted' a space faction with a completely new visual identity while keeping the same name.
Interesting Facts
The Blacktron 2 logo (the stylized 'B') is widely considered one of the most iconic logos in LEGO's history, often appearing in modern 'Retro' merchandise and easter eggs in the LEGO Movie.
Display Suggestions
Display in a tiered acrylic case alongside its rival Space Police II figures. Using Trans-Neon Green 1x2 plates as a base helps highlight the sub-theme's signature color.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'Dark Sci-Fi' MOCs. The torso back printing is versatile enough to be used for modern special forces or futuristic pilots with a simple head swap.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential piece of 1990s LEGO history. While the value is relatively low due to high production numbers, its iconic design makes it a staple for any serious collector of the Space genre.