Refinishing Airfix starcrusier 1

While Scalemates lists the scale at 1/72, there are a number of Gerry Anderson fan sites which state that the scale was fixed at 1/48 during negotiations between Airfix and Anderson's studio. Without having seen the kit in person, it's hard to say what scale the kit is; but if it's down between these two common scales, it should be fairly easy for you to figure out.

The show never went into production, but the ship was designed and built by Martin Bower, who was also responsible for a number of filming models used in Space: 1999, including the show's iconic Eagle. You've probably already noted some of the similarities in the design of the two ships - the paint job is also very similar.

Bower had a web site up some time ago to showcase his work, but it has disappeared. But, there are a ton of sites out there devoted to Gerry Anderson's work where you may be able to find shots of the ship. 

I am not that familiar with that kit.  Can you tell us more?

I assume it is a sci-fi model.  In that case, you are correct- it will be hard finding reference info.  In fact, it may not even have a specific scale, if there were no prototype.

I have had some success with Purple Power cleaner.  Other folks I know strip with hydraulic fluid, Castrol cleaner, and oven cleaner.  the Purple Power, Castrol stuff and oven cleaner are quite alkaline, and are not good on your hands, though as long as I wash my hands thoroughly immediately after working with it, I have had no troubles.