I had actually already built the dome connectors. This is what I am calling the tube-like structures that connect the domes to the main spine framework. I found it very tricky to work all this out using only photos as a guide. (In fact, everything you are seeing here was made completely from scratch using only photos. While I do have some blueprints and renders of another CG model available, I chose to work from the photos as much as possible so I could ensure the most accurate results.)
After some trial and error, I discovered the "clamps" that hold each dome in place are in two symmetrical halves. Together they form a hexagonal cross section. Each half has three "leaves" that fold together and lock in place. It appears they built two versions of these clamps -- one closed and the other open. The reason I guessed this is because the detail inside each clamp is so small (even on a 26-foot miniature) it would be impractical to make a working hinge for each one.
BTW, I built one connecting structure with the clamps closed and another one with open clamps. Only the one with the closed clamps is shown here.
Once the clamps were done, I finished the connectors and installed them inside the spine framework. There is a bracket attaching the central core pipe in the rear, but that hasn't been added to my model just yet. The area where this pipe connects to the front of the framework is hard to make out in the reference images. It's obscured by a bunch of those geometric solids mounted inside the spine framework. I'll have to figure that part out.
All that's really left to finish the front of the ship is now the antenna on the bow. This is a very tricky looking structure -- mostly because it is hard to see in any of the reference images I have. I've ordered the DVD and am hoping I can get a better look at it by watching that.
I'll be taking a break from this for the remainder of the week. Then I'll be working on the stern section next. Once that's completed, I'lll tackle the central command section. I'm still hoping to find that
American Cinematographer issue I hear has some good images or perhaps someone who can send me high-res scans. That command wedge looks pretty complicated!
PS, to make my domes more closely match the originals, the next step would be to add the standoffs to one section, then connect those with line segments. This would strictly be for the purpose of generating accurate blueprints and not for "show." Once the lines were added representing the copper wire, the whole thing could be cloned all around the dome. This detail could then be inserted into each view. . .
