The Space Engineers Thrust Calculator is designed to assist players in calculating the necessary thrust to propel their spacecraft effectively. This tool takes into account the number and type of thrusters a spacecraft has, along with various environmental factors, to determine the total thrust required for maneuvers such as takeoff, cruising, and landing. By inputting specific details about their spacecraft’s configuration, players can accurately estimate the power requirements and thrust output needed to achieve their engineering goals, making the calculator a vital component for strategic planning and design within the game.
Formula of Space Engineers Thrust Calculator
The cornerstone of understanding thrust calculation in Space Engineers is encapsulated in the following formula:
Total Thrust = (Number of Thrusters) * (Force per Thruster)
The force each thruster provides is variable, primarily depending on its type and operational parameters. For ion thrusters, a specific formula helps in determining the force output:
Force per Ion Thruster = Thrust per Thruster * Efficiency * Maximum Power Output
Where:
- Thrust per Thruster: The specified thrust value for each ion thruster within the game.
- Efficiency: A coefficient ranging from 0 to 1, representing the thruster’s efficiency, influenced by power availability and atmospheric conditions.
- Maximum Power Output: The peak power output from the ship’s power sources, as defined in the game’s settings.
Understanding and applying these formulas allow players to meticulously plan their spacecraft’s design and functionality, ensuring optimal performance across various conditions.
Quick Reference Table for Thruster Types
| Thruster Type | Average Thrust Output (kN) | Efficiency in Space | Efficiency in Atmosphere | Power Requirement (MW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ion Thruster | 400 | 1 | 0.75 | 2 |
| Hydrogen Thruster | 600 | 0.85 | 1 | 4 |
| Atmospheric Thruster | 500 | 0 (Not functional in space) | 1 | 3 |
Notes:
- Average Thrust Output: This column provides a general idea of the thrust each thruster type can generate. Actual values can vary based on specific game updates or modifications.
- Efficiency in Space/Atmosphere: Efficiency values indicate how effectively a thruster operates in space versus planetary atmospheres. Ion thrusters work best in space, while atmospheric thrusters are designed for planetary use. Hydrogen thrusters are versatile, performing well in both environments.
- Power Requirement: The power requirement gives an estimate of the energy consumption for each thruster type, crucial for power management in spacecraft design.
Example of Space Engineers Thrust Calculator
Consider a spacecraft equipped with 10 ion thrusters, aiming for optimal performance in space (where atmospheric efficiency is not a concern). If each thruster has a thrust output of 400 kN, an efficiency of 1 (since atmospheric drag is negligible in space), and the maximum power output available is 200 MW, the total thrust can be calculate as follows:
- Calculate the force per ion thruster using the provided formula.
- Multiply the force per thruster by the number of thrusters to get the total thrust.
This process underscores the practical application of the Thrust Calculator, illustrating how players can tailor their spacecraft’s capabilities to specific mission requirements or environmental conditions.
Most Common FAQs
Atmospheric efficiency affects thruster performance, especially on planets with dense atmospheres. The Thrust Calculator adjusts for this by allowing players to input atmospheric density, automatically calculating the efficiency reduction on thrusters.
Yes, the calculator is versatile, supporting calculations for ion, hydrogen, and atmospheric thrusters. Each thruster type has specific inputs for accurate thrust calculation.
While primarily design for use on desktop platforms, the calculator is web-base and responsive, making it accessible on various devices, including tablets and smartphones, for on-the-go calculations.