Overview[]
An overweight payload (signified by the downward pointing red arrows to the left of the rocket) aboard a Mercury 1st Stage and a Tug Module Heavy.
Weight is a mechanic in Space Agency. Every object has a weight value, which is never shown to the player; though it is indicated by a stated percentage when building the rocket.
Weight is used to calculate how much an object or group of objects is moved by thrust or collisions. The higher the weight, the less it is moved.
Tricks to conserve fuel[]
There are several ways to conserve fuel so that weight matters less, however even with all these tricks it is nearly impossible to launch a rocket if the orbit estimate is under 57%. However, with precise timing and fine manipulation of the THRUST button, a rocket rated with 56% 'orbital-attainment percentage indicator' (and lower) may attain orbit; though it will likely run out of fuel and "coast" upward into orbit.
- Turn off the first stage a few seconds after clearing the tower and the boosters will keep the rocket going at max speed (unless using Delta IV Heavy Boosters, in which case the boosters will turn off too)
- Quickly tapping the engines during ascent will maintain speed and save fuel.
- In space, use gravity assists when passing by a planet or star at faster than orbital speed. While direction is determined by several nearly uncontrollable factors, no fuel is used unless you have to avoid a planet.
- When outside circles of influence, the amount of fuel to decelerate is less than what was used to accelerate the craft.
Trivia[]
- Some players have reported being able to get rockets to orbit even though they have been rated as low as 47% for its 'orbital-attainment percentage indicator'. (See photos in Comments section below)