Master engine selection and air-breathing ascent in Kerbal Space Program. Learn how to choose the right engines and achieve efficient ascent profiles for your space missions.
This guide section focuses on selecting the appropriate engines for your spacecraft and mastering the air-breathing ascent phase in Kerbal Space Program. A successful ascent is crucial for reaching orbit and beyond, and the choice of engines plays a vital role in achieving this.
Walkthrough
- 1Engine Selection: Consider the thrust, specific impulse (Isp), and fuel consumption of different engines. Air-breathing engines are efficient in the atmosphere but become useless at higher altitudes. Choose engines that provide sufficient thrust to overcome gravity and atmospheric drag while also offering good efficiency for the ascent profile.
- 2Ascent Profile: Begin your ascent vertically to gain speed quickly. As you gain velocity, gradually pitch over to a more horizontal trajectory. Monitor your speed and angle of attack to avoid aerodynamic stress and maintain efficient acceleration.
- 3Transition to Rocket Power: At the point where your air-breathing engines lose effectiveness (typically around 10-15 km altitude), shut them down and engage your rocket engines. Continue your ascent, gradually increasing your pitch to achieve orbital velocity.
- 4Orbital Insertion: Once you have reached the desired altitude, perform a circularization burn to establish a stable orbit around Kerbin.
Tips
- Utilize the asparagus staging technique for efficient fuel management during ascent.
- Monitor your craft's structural integrity to prevent it from breaking apart due to aerodynamic forces.
- Consider using the FAR (Ferram Aerospace Research) or NEAR (Near Future Aeronautics Research) mods for more realistic aerodynamic simulation.
- Practice your ascent profiles in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) or Space Plane Hangar (SPH) to refine your techniques.
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