How do you create an addon for Orbiter?

[spaceshuttle1]

How do you create an addon for Orbiter? I've read the OrbiterSDK manuals and still don't know where to start.

 

[Urwumpe]

What do you want to make? Always start at this point.

 

[spaceshuttle1]

I was hoping to create a rocket that can carry different payloads easily.

 

[Urwumpe]

I was hoping to create a rocket that can carry different payloads easily.

OK, that is a start. Now, lets refine the concept: Which technology base do you want to use? Realistic or historic technology, or something futuristic? How many stages? Which payload range do you want? A rocket made for 50 ton payloads can't lift a 300 kg payload, for example, in reality (but it can instead carry MANY 300 kg payloads).

Once you have a clear concept what you want to do, you need to select the tools you can use. Which program can you use for making the meshes (the visual model of your rocket)? Can you make a DLL module or do you need to use multistage2.dll? What is your favorite color?

 

[spaceshuttle1]

What tools do I need?

 

[n0mad23]

You need some sort of vector graphics program. Anim8or's free and widely used by those of us with tight budgets. It's certainly not the best, but you can't beat the price.

You should probably pick up a copy of Mesh Wizard, as it's incredibly useful for the tweaks you'll want to make to your exported mesh.

A good graphics program is necessary as well, but in a pinch Paint can be used to make textures.

After that you'll have to decide if your using Vinka's multistage.dll or going to compile your own code. I'm imagining you're thinking of creating a multistage rocket if you're going to use it to carry various payloads. However, Urwumpe's right, this isn't your only possibility, and there are several add-ons that can do this that are single-stage platforms. These are all future tech.

There are a lot of tutorials to help you through all this, and plenty of helpful people to point you in the right direction.

Be sure to use this forum's search feature as the questions arise, as you'll find many questions that arise have been discussed in previous threads.

Good luck, and have fun!

 

[spaceshuttle1]

Thank you, Urwumpe and n0mad23!