NaviComp

The Navigational Computer (usually referred to as NaviComp) is a multi-purpose device installed on every spacecraft. It is used to navigate to and along waypoints in space and to show the spacecraft's current heading and direction of flight, which is essential during orbital maneuvering, interplanetary travel and docking. With the recent update, non-vehicular objects (station modules, fuel silos, etc.) no longer have navicomps and therefore do not display their movement vectors or waypoints when selected. Furthermore, power sources (e.g., batteries, solar panels) are required to use navicomps.

Functionality

• Waypoint-related
  • Display and storage of waypoints, their name and coordinates
  • Emission of warning sounds and waypoint turning ember or red when the spacecraft is closer than 200 or 100 NaviComp units to a waypoint
• Maneuvering-related
  • Display of shapes, guidelines and target areas during training or missions
  • Display of the spacecraft's current heading and velocity vector when not in orbit
  • Calculation and display of the spacecraft's heading, orbital trajectory and orbit escape path when in orbit
  • Automatic assistance during alignment with a waypoint or the velocity vector when not in orbit

Interface

The NaviComp's built-in display and keypad

Although most of the NaviComp's functionality is either automatic or appears on the HUD, it is possible to directly control it using its keypad and read additional information on its built-in display. That way it is possible to:

• Manually switch the NaviComp on and off
• Navigate through the complete list of waypoints
• Check the spacecraft's or a waypoints coordinates
• Check the position of a waypoint relative to the spacecraft at any time (as opposed to only if it is closer than 1000 NaviComp units)
• Create, rename and delete waypoints

It is advisable to turn off the NaviComp using the visible power button on the very top right when taking a screenshot as all the waypoint markers disappear, making a cleaner view. However, it must be noted that it takes approximately 3 seconds for the NaviComp to turn back on. NaviComps may also shut down due to collision damage, and will need to be turned back on manually.