Flare

[Miedein]

Any idea what the flare block is for? I placed one down and well as far as I can tell.. not too impressed.

[cailean_556]

I don't think they mean flare as in 'really bright chemical reaction flame', but I use them as landing (as in marking the hangar entrance and 'runway')/running lights on my ships. If you're after interior lighting, use the actual lights and if you're after external lighting - the spotlight.

[Miedein]

Oh I was just placing one down to see what it was. I just got the game last night and experimenting with what the different things are. Is there not a way, however, to increase the range at which you can see your base? Or make a gps mark or something?

[cailean_556]

Sadly no, not yet. People have suggested that a 'beacon block' be added but it's up to the devs what they implement. Long range navigation - especially in space - can be a bit daunting at times. For now, you'll have to navigate using the map and compass (top right, your RADAR has a compass ring) if you go far from your base.

Your base will always be displayed on your map and, over time, you'll be able to identify the terrain and recognise where you are.

[Hummel-o-War]

Flares are just a style item like lights.

[Asalleer]

Flares only produce a bright point. They do not light up the surrounding area.

[jfinney66]

When you jump out of your SV by mistake at night at 500m then having flares on the bottom of it might help you decide where to go to next to retrieve your hardware once its thrusters decide to shut off so you can get in and pretend it never happened:)

[Effigy]

They are perfect for landing pads and ship decals, they are best seen at a distance before you notice the real difference.