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Exploration Rover 'Sandworm'
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Craft Type: Rover, Robotics
File Size
Posted
Updated
431.428 KB
Apr 17, 2023 @ 1:24am
Apr 19, 2023 @ 3:21pm
7 Change Notes ( view )
Required DLC
This item requires all of the following DLC
Kerbal Space Program: Breaking Ground Expansion
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MelTdoWn
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Exploration Rover 'Sandworm'

In 1 collection by MelTdoWn
Meltdowns Exploration Systems
17 items
Description
"The best part is no part and the less parts the better."

The latest in independent planet exploration, this Rover provides all the functions *) of the full 'Maia' stack with half the launch mass.
'Sandworm' features a large Convert-O-Tron and a Lab in a compact and mobile form factor.
This enables an extended stay at the target planet without the need for resupply missions.
It also comes with a robotic Refueling Crane that can reach docking ports in most orientations.
A detachable Range Extender is carried piggyback, together this stack has enough delta-v to reach every planet in the Kerbol system.
Landing and return to orbit is possible from everywhere except Kerbin, Laythe, Tylo and Eve.

Sandworm Rover
2x Nerva
Delta-v: ~ 3670 m/s **)
TWR (sea level): 1.16 (Moho), 1.00 (Duna), 1.35 (Vall), 2.76 (Dres), 1.85 (Eeloo)
Mass: 38.482t
Price: 116,474
Crew capacity: 4
Cargo capacity: 2500L + 200L + 100L
1x Convert-O-Tron 250, 2x Drill-O-Matic
Refueling Crane: 7 degrees of freedom, small & medium docking, small grabbing unit
1x Mobile Processing Lab
7x science experiments, 3x Experiment Storage, Large Scanning Arm

Sandworm + 'Piggyback' Range Extender
4x Nerva
Delta-v: ~ 6300 m/s **) (without using staging)
TWR (sea level): 1.13 (Moho), 0.98 (Duna), 1.33 (Vall), 2.71 (Dres), 1.81 (Eeloo)
Mass: 78.475t
Price: 158,289

(without crew or cargo, with 75 Ore)

Notes
*) M700 Survey Scanner sold separately
**) ORE IS LOADED, start conversion to liquid fuel after you burned some!
- If you want to establish full relay coverage bring along a 'Phaethon' satellite carrier.
- You will need 'Piggyback' only to travel between planets, leave it in orbit when not in use.
- Tricky landing with 'Piggyback' attached is possible to make refueling it easier.
- TWR on Duna is marginal, use Drain Valve on starboard side to dump some fuel.
- Fuel reserves for Moho transfer + landing are marginal, you may need to ditch 'Piggyback' during the capture burn.
- Watch the oxidizer levels when using the fuel cells, ISRU hotkey only toggles LF production.

Keybindings
[3] Toggle Nerva
[4] Toggle Refueling Crane
[5] Toggle Fuel Cells
[6] Toggle payload doors
[7] Toggle ISRU, Harvester, Thermal, Fuel Cells
[8] Gather science
[9] Toggle Ladders, Drills
[0] Toggle Solar, Antenna
3 Comments
< >
MelTdoWn  [author] Jul 10, 2023 @ 8:09am 
You can use Heavy Reusable Launcher to get this to orbit.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2964974501

You might want to bring along a 'Phaethon' Relay Carrier for communications and ore survey.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2955059553
MelTdoWn  [author] Apr 18, 2023 @ 12:30am 
Thank you :) While this Rover can operate unmanned, I would recommend a crew that includes an engineer (to speed up drilling/refining) and two scientists (to staff the laboratory). A pilot is not strictly necessary because a remote guidance unit is provided - make sure you have good connection to KSC if you skip the pilot.
Pathfinder Apr 17, 2023 @ 8:45am 
Looks really cool. I like your take. Cant wait to try it out. Is it better manned or unmanned?