Not thinking this is going to be a new 'wave' of posts, just the result of some spare time with nothing better to do, and one I don't think I'd posted from the "archives" Minerva-class scout USS T'Penga Shiva-class battleship (Terran Empire) Cook-class extended range survey vessel (Napoleon-class variant)
Slight amendment to credits on Cook class to reflect original design by SFB. Thanks to Tyndia at STSTCSOLD&A for the heads up
If it's a survey vessel you should cover that big flat spine with sensors of some sort, use the surface to your advantage.
I didn't want to "over greeble" it, visually. Besides, you really can't put anything there as it would block the clearance for the impulse engine exhaust. Not only would it damage anything sticking up into it, but the radiation I would think would mess up the readings. That's why I put the sensor "pod" where I did.
Anyone who has followed my work knows that I don't have a problem with "no dish" ships like the Reliant, and that I absolutely HATE "dangley dishes" (where they just stick the dish off a spar below the saucer). That said, dishes are a traditional part of most Starfleet designs. I was playing with how I could put a dish on the Cook class creditably, and came up with this:
^^^ Heh...you were inspired by Forbin's "Ascender" when you added that front nav deflector dish, weren't you? Theoretically, you could have two smaller dishes on the exposed front of each bulge on the lower hull. Might make it a little more integrated and less of an afterthought.
Actually, no...I hadn't read that thread yet (just got back from there). There was a similar ship in Ships of the Line a few years ago and that's where I probably got the idea. I might play with that some time...this was more of a "doodle" anyways. I'm trying very hard not to spend all my time on kitbashing right now. This little "mini wave" was me having literally nothing better to do with several hours over a couple of days. I've been trying to give you that break you were looking for, but sometimes "the bug" just won't leave me alone.
^^^ Well, it might not happen for a long time at this point. My wife and I are 2 weeks away from our first-born arriving, and I suspect that will occupy my time for the greater part. So, long and short, don't wait up for me.
Bernard Guignard suggested I try two smaller dishes on the underbelly. I did, and didn't like the result, but I DO like this one