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The Daily Insight

How do I start Kerbal space program?

Author

James Stevens

Updated on April 28, 2026

Your First Launch

  1. Choose Start Game.
  2. Choose Start New.
  3. Give yourself a name.
  4. Choose Career (not Sandbox or Science)
  5. Click Start.

Does Kerbal Space Program teach?

The Kerbal Space Program is not a perfect spacecraft simulator however it successfully teaches the basics. Most importantly even if it doesn’t full N-body simulation it’s perfectly capable of simulating Kepler’s orbits that give you good first approximation for many spacecraft missions.

How do you thrust in Kerbal space program?

The throttle can be controlled with the ⇧ Left Shift and ^ Left Ctrl keys, which will respectively increase and decrease the throttle. When in Intra-Vehicular Activity view, the throttle lever in the cockpit can also be used by clicking and dragging it with the mouse.

Is KSP free on PC?

The Demo version is free to download and play, and will remain so forever. The KSP Team is strongly committed to the project, and we are always listening for feedback from the players. Recommended System Specs: 2.0Ghz Dual Core CPU or higher (preferably higher)

How to launch in Kerbal Space Program?

Start Kerbal Space Program. The very first step is to “launch” the game,of course.

  • On the Launchpad. Now you get a nice overhead view of the massive Kerbal Space Center complex.
  • Your First Launch. Tap the Space bar once. The support structures release and up you go!
  • How realistic is Kerbal Space Program?

    So, no, compared to an actual space program, Kerbal Space Program is not a very realistic simulation, even with mods. However, Kerbal Space Program is the closest thing that exists. It simulates the mechanics of space flight better than any other game, and the mods improve it exponentially.

    How to dock in Kerbal Space Program?

    Launch into orbit and select target.

  • Align orbital planes with selected target.
  • Burn to intercept orbit of selected target.
  • Burn to rendezvous at 5km or less with selected target.
  • Cancel relative velocity to selected target at rendezvous point.
  • Maneuver in to dock.