I've done the original (1701, you're asking about the 1701-A), nothing to write home about, but I've done a few simple models.

Here's an idea; hollow out the shuttle area, then 'plug' it with a quarter-sphere (slice in half, then slice a half of that), maybe some extruding or beveling for detail? Don't have Maya (I'm way down at the other end of the spectrum), but that's what I'd probably do.

I wish I'd said that.. The Staircase Wit

anahl nathrak uth vas betude doth yel dyenvey..;)