That is a great looking sky. I just love it and I'm taking notes. As for the ship, first, make sure you've got plenty of references to work from. Most preferably a side and top view but a front, back and 3/4 view, even if its not the same ship, would also be of great help. Are there a lot of raker images about? Decide before starting what she's going to look like in your mind. I try to collect my textures first because this gives me a clearer mental image about the end product but the textures first is not a mandatory step. As you sit down to create your ship, it will be a labor of love right from the start. After you get started, things will come to you naturally and youll find yourself working at a good clip. Don't hasten yourself to get her finished by some arbitrary preset deadline. Decide right off that she'll be done when you decide she's done. In other words, dont rush it. The more detail you can provide, the more realistic she will be but also the larger the file. It will most definitely be a new, challenging and learning experience for you. When things seem to get a little too frustrating and seemingly unmanageable, put the project away for a little while. Just walk away from it and allow yourself to refresh and get energized before getting your thoughts together and sitting down again and plying your skills. Depending on how much work youre willing to put into her, the modeling can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. I know you didnt need any of this spiel but I just wanted to shout out my encouragement. I know it will look great. I cant wait to see the finished product, especially in this great setting that youre providing for it. Good luck!