TerraBuilder Showcases SpacePort for MSFS 2020/2024
Quick summary· AI-generated
TerraBuilder's SpacePort addon for MSFS adds a custom orbital-mechanics framework enabling players to launch spacecraft, maneuver in orbit (adjust apogee/perigee/inclination), rendezvous and dock with targets, deploy payloads, and execute re-entry with plasma visuals and automated sequencers. The addon will integrate with TerraBuilder's Kennedy Space Centre scenery and support both PC and Xbox, though the Space Shuttle is excluded (reserved for Captain Sim). Release date and pricing remain unannounced.
Excerpt from Threshold
TerraBuilder has showcased more of their upcoming SpacePort addon, a spaceflight module for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024.
The addon seeks to add a physics framework for flyable spacecraft that can launch, manoeuvre in space, and re-enter, using a custom-built orbital mechanics implementation.
According to TerraBuilder, SpacePort will simulate orbital and ballistic mechanics independently of MSFS’s flight model. You will be able to select a target orbit altitude and launch azimuth, after which the addon will handle initial ascent and orbit insertion.
Once in orbit, the spacecraft will return control to the user, who can manoeuvre it in attitude and translation, deploy or capture payloads, and rendezvous with docking targets, such as space stations. You will also be able to change the shape and orientation of your orbit, including apogee, perigee, and inclination around the Earth, and some of these actions can be automated as well.
At the user’s discretion, you’ll be able to orient the spacecraft retrograde (against the direction of travel) and deorbit. If a particular landing area is selected, the addon will calculate when and where the deorbit burn should start to produce the appropriate entry trajectory.
So-called “sequencers” will also be built in, specific to each vehicle/spacecraft you choose to fly, so that a re-entry sequence can automatically carry out service-module separation, centre-of-mass adjustment, forward-drag-cover separation, parachute deployment, and other staging steps when relevant conditions are reached.
Re-entry will have plasma visuals and accompanying audio as well.
The Space Shuttle vehicle depicted here will not be included, as that is Captain Sim’s Space Shuttle Orbiter addon.
Launch infrastructure will be included, such as mobile launch platforms and towers, and they will integrate with TerraBuilder’s Kennedy Space Centre scenery when both products are installed.
The product is being designed for both PC and Xbox, with low-to-medium Earth orbits currently planned (roughly 160 to 35,786 kilometres above the planet (99/22,236 miles))
Planned functionality includes launch, orbital manoeuvring, docking, payload deployment, space station construction, extravehicular activity, deorbit, atmospheric re-entry, and landing.
You can join the developer’s Discord for more information. Release date and pricing have not yet been announced.
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