So I randomly checked on this for the first time in a while. It turns out they are in beta for an updated version that actually has 3d terrain at last! I have to say, this program taught me a lot about space travel, orbits and docking in space. Yes, it’s basic, but as an interesting and interactive learning tool it’s brilliant. Pure exploration.
If you haven’t tried it yet, I urge you to give it a go. Yes, it’s a simulator, but you can use some extremely sci-fi craft that make travelling a lot easier than real life is. Plus there’s a ton of mods.
I might have to install the new version once it’s released and go flying through some Martian canyons…
That’s pretty cool. I’ve not played around with Orbiter in quite some time (partly because I was rubbish at it). It’s a shame there’s no Linux build for it though.
You have to have a lot of patience, that’s for sure! But I remember the thrill of taking a ship from the runway to orbit, then rendezvousing with the ISS and docking… It felt properly satisfying, especially with the crafts with 3d cockpits.
I am also a massive KSP fan, but Orbiter is a different beast altogether. It has a feel that I can’t quite describe - it comes closer to reality I think than most other space simulators (of the ones I can think of). Even a modded KSP I suspect can’t match something purpose-built!
Still, they’re targeted at different audiences so all power to both of them.
