My Walker Project is an educational initiative focused on the research, design, and construction of a detailed 3D model miniature of the iconic AT-AT walker from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. Developed under the banner of Pana-K Scale Models, this project combines cinematic history, scale modeling techniques, and 3D design to bring one of sci-fi’s most legendary machines to life in miniature form.
Welcome to my Blog.
Join me as I document the development and progress of my latest model-building venture.
I hope this project will be both enjoyable and educational—for myself and for you, the reader. I warmly invite you to be part of the journey. Feel free to visit the associated Facebook page to share your thoughts, suggestions, or any constructive feedback that could help make this project even better.
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Pana Kanedo
The SOURCES
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Filming Miniatures (I)
What could be more fitting than beginning this blog with the miniatures used in the filming of Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983), both from the original Star Wars saga? These unique and fascinating studio models have served as a source of inspiration for countless fans and kit-builders around the world. But the focus of this blog is none other than the mighty AT-AT Imperial Walkers—undeniably one of the most impressive vehicles in the original trilogy.
Despite appearing on screen for only a few minutes, no fewer than twelve AT-AT models of various sizes and configurations were built for the production of The Empire Strikes Back. This doesn’t even include the numerous unfinished builds, used primarily for spare parts, or the oversized components—such as the two large-scale feet created for close-up shots during action sequences.
These models can generally be divided into three main categories, based on their respective sizes:
Six "mini" 1.5"(3,8cm) tall walkers, used for the far distant scenes.
Four fully articulated 19" (49,5cm) walkers, used for principal photography and study.
Three 2D shaped semi arcticulated 19" (49,5cm) and 6" (15cm) walkers silhouette, used in background photography.
One large scale 3.5' (105cm) Walker model mainly used for collapse sequences.
Promotional picture of George Lucas at the Archives department surrounded by hundreds of props from the original Trilogy.
1983, Skywalker Ranch. Marin County, CA.
© & TM, Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.
Additional accessories were also created for close-up shots, such as an upscaled AT-AT foot used in the scene where a Snowspeeder is crushed, and another practical version designed specifically to simulate footprints in the snow.
In the upcoming blog entries, all of these models will be explored in detail—each one examined, explained, and documented with technical specifications and the specific role it played in the making of the films.
Foot model created to generate footprints for the scene where Luke dives away from his crashed Snowspeeder. The scene needed to be dressed with footprints leading up to the stomping of the Snowspeeder. Constructed of resin, it measures 9 in. in diameter.
Joe Johnston, Conceptual Artist and Paint Master, adds painted highlights to the foot.
Model makers, Gawley, Samuel Zolltheis and Owyeung, playing around with the foot model.
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© & TM, DISNEY/Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.