GET YOUR BEARINGS
Plan your next Kerbal Space Program session
Our independent guide breaks down each core element of Kerbal Space Program, offering focused exercises that let you compare part choices, crew assignments, and mission strategies without relying on paid upgrades or external tools.
01 / THE GUIDE
Part Compatibility
Compare engine thrust ratings against fuel tank capacities to find balanced configurations, noting how excess mass influences orbital insertion and maneuver efficiency.
- Mix engine thrust and fuel tank size to achieve a balanced thrust‑to‑weight ratio.
- Add docking ports early in a design to practice assembling larger structures.
02 / THE GUIDE
Crew Assignment
Evaluate Kerbal experience levels for different mission lengths, observing how seasoned crew improve success rates during complex burns and EVA tasks.
- Assign Kerbals with higher experience to longer or more complex missions.
- Plan EVA durations carefully to avoid unnecessary exposure.
03 / THE GUIDE
Orbital Mechanics
Practice adjusting apoapsis and periapsis with timed thrust burns, watching how small changes alter orbital periods and transfer windows.
- Deploy a satellite before landing to map the surrounding area.
- Set up relay stations to maintain contact with distant missions.
04 / THE GUIDE
Satellite Deployment
Test various orbital altitudes for satellite placement, comparing coverage maps to identify optimal positions for biome scanning.
- Begin with Science Mode to learn part functions before tackling Career challenges.
- Use Sandbox to prototype designs you can later apply in Career missions.
05 / THE GUIDE
Career Budgeting
Track funding income versus expenditure on parts and upgrades, noting patterns that sustain long‑term program growth.
- Enable Steam Cloud to keep your saves synchronized across devices.
- Browse the Workshop for new parts, missions, and visual enhancements.
