Just for point of discussion: why not two models? One featuring a high-poly mesh for closeups, and a second, lower-poly mesh with the details baked onto UV-mapped textures for shots that don't require precision?
I don't know if you want to have kill marks on Polaris, or possibly on other ships. That's just something you might wish to consider.
You know, kill mark = A flag or icon indicating the type of enemy ship or craft that has been destroyed by the vessel, displayed on its conning tower, turret, or fuselage, one mark per kill.
Oh, I'm reasonably sure CorporalCaptain got the joke but provided the explanation to make sure everyone understood his terminology. And there's something about a character who wears kill marks as a tattoo that I really like.
That is certainly an option and one often used in CG production pipelines. My involvement is limited to building the "hero" model, from which Dennis' F/X guys should be able to derive a lower-poly version if they find it advantageous. However, I am still hoping to strike a balance on the overall polycount, with added detail in the areas that need it for close-ups, that will work for the vast majority of shots.
More adjustments to the name and registry. Still mulling over options for the galaxy insignia, so I've left it where it is for the moment. Thoughts?
A very small thing. The c570 at the top looks crooked. It might work better if you lined it up parallel with the edge of the grey paint above it.
Good eye, but the number is cocked like it is for a reason that occurred to me since the previous version, so that the number is perfectly horizontal when the sails are fully closed, the "default" configuration. Now, it may turn out that aligning the number with the edge of the gray paint is preferable to having it perfectly horizontal with the sails closed, but I'm not going to make that determination without seeing both options.
The "galaxy" logo still looks like the old Screen Gems logo (http://logos.wikia.com/wiki/Screen_Gems_Television). Seriously, this is a very spiffy spacecraft!
Is there a way to make those bright white letters painted onto the same panels that make the gray paint looks several different shades? The bright white letters are really ruining the overall effect for a gorgeous ship.
Into the final detailing stages now... I've been mulling over several different ways to add visual interest to those big, blank areas on the upper and lower surfaces of the main engine housings, and I think this is the version I like best. Basically, these are massive heat sinks tied directly into the engine coolant loops. In addition to having a plausible function, I love the way they add a bit of mechanical flair to the overall look. I have also added the hexagonal thermal tiles to the bottom of the lander module, hull plate texturing to the registry number, warning icons for the maneuvering thrusters, and various other little things here and there. Opinions?