Difference between revisions of "Project Apollo for Orbiter"

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'''Project Apollo for Orbiter''' ( formerly known as '''NASA's Apollo Space Simulation Project''' or short: '''NASSP''' ) is an [[add-on]] for [[Orbiter]] which recreates the [[Apollo]] missions.
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{{Infobox add-on
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| 1 = [https://sourceforge.net/projects/nassp/ SourceForge]
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| 2 = Team project
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| 3 = 7.0 (stable), 8.0 (beta)
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| 4 = Orbiter 2010 (7.0), Orbiter Beta (8.0)
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}}
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'''Project Apollo for Orbiter''' (formerly known as '''NASA's Apollo Space Simulation Project''' or short: '''NASSP''') is an [[add-on]] for [[Orbiter]] which features in-depth and accurate simulation of the [[Apollo]] missions.
  
 
==Background==
 
==Background==
  
−
NASSP was originally developed by Jean-Luc Rocca-Serra, who released the source code to version 4.x. Mark Grant then rewrote the code as C++, added an initial C++ implementation of the Apollo Guidance Computer and replaced the control panel bitmaps with new ones from P64, releasing 'NASSP COSTAM' and a derivative which provided basic support for the Virtual AGC software.
+
NASSP was originally developed by Jean-Luc Rocca-Serra, who released the source code to version 4.x. Mark Grant then rewrote the code as C++, added an initial C++ implementation of the Apollo Guidance Computer, and replaced the control panel bitmaps with new ones from P64. He subsequently released 'NASSP COSTAM' and a derivative which provided basic support for the Virtual AGC software.
  
 
Jean-Luc released NASSP 5.0, an updated version based on that source code, for the next release of Orbiter, including, for example, new particle exhaust support and a Skylab launch module.
 
Jean-Luc released NASSP 5.0, an updated version based on that source code, for the next release of Orbiter, including, for example, new particle exhaust support and a Skylab launch module.
  
−
With the 6.x release it became ''Project Apollo for Orbiter'', an open source Apollo simulation add-on: for simplicity, both software variants are described here as NASSP. The latest 'stable' version is 6.4.3.
+
With the 6.x release it became ''Project Apollo for Orbiter'', an open source Apollo simulation add-on: for simplicity, both software variants are described here as NASSP. The latest 'stable' version is 7.0.
  
−
The 7.0 release is currently in Beta, including a near-complete simulation of the Command Module control panel and most of the internal systems, and support for new spacecraft. It is also capable of flying most of an Apollo mission using the Virtual AGC software.
+
The 8.0 release is currently in beta, including a near-complete simulation of the command module control panel and most of the internal systems, and support for new spacecraft. It is also capable of flying most of an Apollo mission using the Virtual AGC software.
  
 
==Features==
 
==Features==
Line 53: Line 59:
 
NASSP 5.x does not currently run under Orbiter 2006 as its Solar System files are incompatible with the new Orbiter format. It could probably be made to run with some changes to the config files.
 
NASSP 5.x does not currently run under Orbiter 2006 as its Solar System files are incompatible with the new Orbiter format. It could probably be made to run with some changes to the config files.
  
−
====NASSP 6.x====
+
As an extension to NASSP Rodion M. Herrera and others did the NEP (NASSP Enhancement Pack), which contains lunar landing scenarios and mission-specific astronauts etc. A modified NEP version is still available for Project Apollo - NASSP 6.4.3.
 +
 
 +
Also, there was an experimental Virtual AGC integration add-on called Virtual Apollo based on Mark Grant's NASSP_COSTAM v2. Meanwhile, it's obsolete and replaced by the Virtual AGC mode in Project Apollo - NASSP. The [http://nassp.sourceforge.net/user/virtualapollo/ documentation] is still online.
 +
 
 +
=== NCPP 1.0 ===
 +
 
 +
NCPP (NASSP Complete Panel Project) was done by Matthias and Fabian Müller based on NASSP 5.2 and was the first version with realistic panels. Compared to the panels in the 7.0 beta, which are done by Matthias and Fabian Müller, too, it was only a beginning, of course.
 +
 
 +
* New CSM and LM control panel
 +
 
 +
====Project Apollo - NASSP 6.x====
 +
 
 +
At the beginning of 2005 Jean-Luc Rocca-Serra wasn't able to further develop NASSP and the add-on began to scatter a little bit. Additionally to NASSP 5.2 and NEP 1.0 meanwhile, there was NCPP 1.0 and later on NASSP 6.1, which was an enhancement/fix of NCPP 1.0 for Orbiter 2005. Because all these add-ons depended on each other, at the worst time the user needed to install 7 or 8 files from 3 sites in a certain order. It was so weird that Dan Stephan wrote a quite adequate article about that on his site: "Houston, this add-on has a problem..."
 +
 
 +
At that point, some people (like Mark Grant, Matthias Müller, etc.) decided to move NASSP to SourceForge as a GNU GPL licensed open source project to save NASSP from vanishing completely and to make team development possible. At that point we wanted to rename the add-on to the more intuitive name "Project Apollo", but this project name wasn't available at SourceForge so we made a compromise and took NASSP as project "unix name" (SourceForge term for the unique project name used for URLs etc.) and "Project Apollo - NASSP" as project title and bundled all these components together for the 6.3 release.
  
 
* Rebuilt for 2005 Orbiter release.
 
* Rebuilt for 2005 Orbiter release.
Line 62: Line 82:
 
* Basic LEM ascent autopilot.
 
* Basic LEM ascent autopilot.
 
* Improved AGC emulation.
 
* Improved AGC emulation.
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* Improved Saturn 1b autopilot.
+
* Improved Saturn 1B autopilot.
−
* More realistic Command Module aerodynamics.
+
* More realistic command module aerodynamics.
  
−
====NASSP 7 (beta)====
+
====Project Apollo - NASSP 7.0====
  
 
[[Image:NASSP-panel.jpg|thumb|right|NASSP 7.0 control panel]]
 
[[Image:NASSP-panel.jpg|thumb|right|NASSP 7.0 control panel]]
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−
Or, more accurately, 'Project Apollo for Orbiter 1.0'.
 
  
 
* Fully functional 2D Panel Support throughout the CM.
 
* Fully functional 2D Panel Support throughout the CM.
 
* 3D Virtual Cockpit (nonfunctional at the moment)
 
* 3D Virtual Cockpit (nonfunctional at the moment)
−
* Realist simulation of most major spacecraft systems.
+
* Realistic simulation of most major spacecraft systems.
 
* Historically accurate checklists.
 
* Historically accurate checklists.
 
* NEW CM, SM, and KSC meshes (VAB,LUT,LC34/37/39,MSS,MLP,Crawler etc.)
 
* NEW CM, SM, and KSC meshes (VAB,LUT,LC34/37/39,MSS,MLP,Crawler etc.)
Line 92: Line 110:
 
Project Apollo for Orbiter 1.0/NASSP 7.0 supports a number of spacecraft. Most are historical spacecraft used in the Apollo program, but some are proposed post-Apollo designs which never flew in the real world.
 
Project Apollo for Orbiter 1.0/NASSP 7.0 supports a number of spacecraft. Most are historical spacecraft used in the Apollo program, but some are proposed post-Apollo designs which never flew in the real world.
  
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===Command/Service Module===
+
===Command and service module===
−
 
 
−
NASSP simulates the Block II Command/Service Module, providing a home and life support for the astronauts in space.
 
−
 
 
 
[[Image:NASSP7CSMInOrbitSmall.jpg|thumb|right|NASSP 7.0 CSM in Earth orbit]]
 
[[Image:NASSP7CSMInOrbitSmall.jpg|thumb|right|NASSP 7.0 CSM in Earth orbit]]
 +
NASSP simulates the Block II Command and service module, providing a home and life support for the astronauts in space.
  
 
The CM was the nerve center of the Apollo spacecraft, as it functioned as primary control and navigation platform during the missions.  It housed the highly-advanced (for the 1960s) Apollo Guidance Computer, as well as all the systems the astronauts would need to safely re-enter earth's atmosphere.
 
The CM was the nerve center of the Apollo spacecraft, as it functioned as primary control and navigation platform during the missions.  It housed the highly-advanced (for the 1960s) Apollo Guidance Computer, as well as all the systems the astronauts would need to safely re-enter earth's atmosphere.
  
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The Service Module contained the systems that were vital for the extended stay of up to 10 days in space. This included fuel cells to privide power and water, as well as radiators to keep the internal systems cool. Also housed in the service module were the primary propulsion systems, including the RCS maneuverability thrusters and the SPS, used for major course corrections. In later Apollo lunar missions, this versatile component contained a SIM Bay for additional scientific study of the lunar surface the space surrounding our nearest celestial neighbor.
+
The Service Module contained the systems that were vital for the extended stay of up to 10 days in space. This included fuel cells to provide power and water, as well as radiators to keep the internal systems cool. Also housed in the service module were the primary propulsion systems, including the RCS maneuverability thrusters and the SPS, used for major course corrections. In later Apollo lunar missions, this versatile component contained a SIM Bay for the additional scientific study of the lunar surface the space surrounding our nearest celestial neighbor.
  
−
As the core of the Apollo hardware, the CSM is a high priority for NASSP development. It has received a complete and ongoing overhaul for NASSP 7.0, complete with new graphics, meshes and systems simulations.
+
As the core of the Apollo hardware, the CSM is a high priority for NASSP development. It has received a complete and ongoing overhaul for NASSP 7.0, complete with new graphics, meshes, and systems simulations.
  
 
===Lunar Module===
 
===Lunar Module===
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[[Image:NASSP7LEMOnMoonSmall.jpg|thumb|right|NASSP 7.0 LEM on the Moon]]
 
[[Image:NASSP7LEMOnMoonSmall.jpg|thumb|right|NASSP 7.0 LEM on the Moon]]
  
−
The lower Descent Stage carried the large Descent Engine, fuel for the landing, and batteries and supplies required for the stay on the Moon. It also carried a limited amount of cargo, including, on the later flights, the Lunar Rover. It's final role was to act as a launch pad for the Ascent Stage when the lunar landing phase was complete and they flew back to dock with the CSM in orbit.
+
The lower Descent Stage carried the large Descent Engine, fuel for the landing, and batteries and supplies required for the stay on the Moon. It also carried a limited amount of cargo, including, on the later flights, the Lunar Rover. Its final role was to act as a launch pad for the Ascent Stage when the lunar landing phase was complete and they flew back to dock with the CSM in orbit.
  
 
The upper Ascent Stage provided living quarters for the crew while on the Moon, controls for the landing and ascent, and the smaller Ascent Engine and fuel to carry them into orbit. The Ascent Stage could dock with the CSM itself, but in normal circumstances the docking was flown by the more maneuvrable CSM.
 
The upper Ascent Stage provided living quarters for the crew while on the Moon, controls for the landing and ascent, and the smaller Ascent Engine and fuel to carry them into orbit. The Ascent Stage could dock with the CSM itself, but in normal circumstances the docking was flown by the more maneuvrable CSM.
Line 128: Line 144:
 
===Saturn V===
 
===Saturn V===
  
−
Three-stage launcher used to launch a Command/Service Module and Lunar Module towards the Moon. This was used to launch Apollo's 8 through 17.  It is arguably the most powerful rocket ever flown into space.
+
The three-stage launcher used to launch command and service module and Lunar Module towards the Moon. This was used to launch Apollos 8 through 17.  It is arguably the most powerful rocket ever flown into space.
  
 
The Saturn V in NASSP is a highly detailed and increasingly more realistic machine.  Current development is minimal, as it has already reached a high level of detail and accuracy.
 
The Saturn V in NASSP is a highly detailed and increasingly more realistic machine.  Current development is minimal, as it has already reached a high level of detail and accuracy.
  
−
===Saturn 1b===
+
===Saturn IB===
  
−
Two-stage launcher used to launch a Command/Service Module into Earth orbit. This was used for Apollo 7, the Skylab flights, and the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project flight.  Recent studies have shown that the Saturn 1b may have been one of the most cost-effective boosters in lbs per dollar.
+
The two-stage launcher used to launch a Command/Service Module into Earth orbit. This was used for Apollo 7, the Skylab flights, and the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project flight.  Recent studies have shown that the Saturn IB may have been one of the most cost-effective boosters in lbs per dollar.
  
−
Like the Saturn V, NASSP's Saturn 1b is highly detailed and extremely accurate.  As a result, it is not a high priority at this time.
+
Like the Saturn V, NASSP's Saturn IB is highly detailed and extremely accurate.  As a result, it is not a high priority at this time.
  
 
===ASTP Docking Module===
 
===ASTP Docking Module===
  
−
Although rather limited as a spacecraft in its own right, the Apollo-Soyuz Test Program Docking Module allows an Apollo Command/Service Module to dock with a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in orbit, and transfer crew between them.  The Docking Module is carried into orbit as cargo on a Saturn 1b, in the same way that the Lunar Module is carried as cargo on a Saturn V.
+
Although rather limited as a spacecraft in its own right, the Apollo-Soyuz Test Program Docking Module allows an Apollo command and service module to dock with a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in orbit and transfer crew between them.  The Docking Module is carried into orbit as cargo on a Saturn 1B, in the same way, that the Lunar Module is carried as cargo on a Saturn V.
  
−
Development on the Docking Module is currently stalled as work proceeds on higher-priority items, however it is open to further development and will more likely than not see it's share of upgrades.
+
Development on the Docking Module is currently stalled as work proceeds on higher-priority items, however, it is open to further development and will more likely than not see its share of upgrades.
  
 
==='Apollo to Venus' Wet Workshop test===
 
==='Apollo to Venus' Wet Workshop test===
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[[Image:Apollo-eyeballs-out.jpg|thumb|right|'Wet Workshop' test SIVB burn]]
 
[[Image:Apollo-eyeballs-out.jpg|thumb|right|'Wet Workshop' test SIVB burn]]
  
−
NASA's Manned Venus Flyby plans using Apollo technology would have used an SIVB stage to launch a three-man crew towards Venus, after which they would vent remaining fuel from the SIVB, extend solar panels and live in it as a Skylab-style space station. They would conduct generalised astronomical and zero-gravity experiments for most of their trip, and for a few days around the flyby they would conduct detailed observations of Venus.
+
NASA's Manned Venus Flyby plans using Apollo technology would have used an SIVB stage to launch a three-man crew towards Venus, after which they would vent remaining fuel from the SIVB, extend solar panels, and live in it as a Skylab-style space station. They would conduct generalized astronomical and zero-gravity experiments for most of their trip, and for a few days around the flyby, they would conduct detailed observations of Venus.
  
 
NASSP 7.0 includes a simulation of the first test phase, in which the astronauts would use the SIVB to raise their orbit for a test of the 'wet workshop' of up to one month in duration. Rather than solar panels, the test phase uses batteries in the SIVB stage to provide power to supplement the Service Module fuel cells and conserve consumables in the Service Module for the return to Earth.
 
NASSP 7.0 includes a simulation of the first test phase, in which the astronauts would use the SIVB to raise their orbit for a test of the 'wet workshop' of up to one month in duration. Rather than solar panels, the test phase uses batteries in the SIVB stage to provide power to supplement the Service Module fuel cells and conserve consumables in the Service Module for the return to Earth.
Line 158: Line 174:
 
[[Image:INT-20-first-stage.jpg|thumb|right|Saturn INT-20]]
 
[[Image:INT-20-first-stage.jpg|thumb|right|Saturn INT-20]]
  
−
Two-stage launcher used in a similar manner to the Saturn 1b to launch a Command/Service Module and larger payload into Earth orbit: essentially a cut-down Saturn V with no second stage, mounting an SIVB stage directly on top of the S1C first stage. The S1C also had one engine removed, as the five-engine stage produced too much thrust and would have caused problems with excessive dynamic pressure during launch.
+
The two-stage launcher used in a similar manner to the Saturn 1b to launch a Command/Service Module and larger payload into Earth orbit: essentially a cut-down Saturn V with no second stage, mounting an SIVB stage directly on top of the S1C first stage. The S1C also had one engine removed, as the five-engine stage produced too much thrust and would have caused problems with excessive dynamic pressure during launch.
  
−
The primary benefit of the INT-20 was a payload capacity about half-way between the Saturn 1b and Saturn V without the cost of creating a new launcher from scratch: the stages were close enough in design that they could be built on the same production line as the Saturn V stages. A three-engine version with a lower payload was also studied, but isn't simulated in NASSP.
+
The primary benefit of the INT-20 was a payload capacity about half-way between the Saturn 1b and Saturn V without the cost of creating a new launcher from scratch: the stages were close enough in design that they could be built on the same production line as the Saturn V stages. A three-engine version with a lower payload was also studied but isn't simulated in NASSP.
  
−
Another non-historic craft, the INT-20 showed much promise on the drawing board and NASSP hopes to bring such promise to life in the virtual world.
+
Another non-historic craft, the INT-20 showed much promise on the drawing board and NASSP hopes to bring such promise to live in the virtual world.
  
 
==Future spacecraft==
 
==Future spacecraft==
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[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manned_Venus_Flyby Wikipedia] has some more information.
 
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manned_Venus_Flyby Wikipedia] has some more information.
  
−
===Command/Service Module===
+
===Command and service module===
  
 
Support may be added for the proposed Block-III CSM with batteries for power in place of fuel cells, and the Block-IV CSM with batteries for power and LEM engines in place of the SPS.
 
Support may be added for the proposed Block-III CSM with batteries for power in place of fuel cells, and the Block-IV CSM with batteries for power and LEM engines in place of the SPS.
Line 194: Line 210:
 
===Lunar Motorbike===
 
===Lunar Motorbike===
  
−
Tentatively planned for Apollo 20. See [http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/pao/History/alsj/misc/apmisc-S69-41519.jpg NASA image].
+
Designed as a backup to the Lunar Rover. See [http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/pao/History/alsj/misc/apmisc-S69-41519.jpg NASA image].
  
 
===Original Saturn plans===
 
===Original Saturn plans===
  
−
The original Saturn-A, -B, -C and Nova designs, possibly including the earlier lunar landing plans based on multiple launches, or the single launch putting the entire CSM onto the Moon using the massive [http://www.astronautix.com/lvs/saturnc8.htm Saturn C-8] booster.
+
The original Saturn-A, -B, -C, and Nova designs, possibly including the earlier lunar landing plans based on multiple launches, or the single launch putting the entire CSM onto the Moon using the massive [http://www.astronautix.com/lvs/saturnc8.htm Saturn C-8] booster.
  
 
For more information see, for example, [http://www.astronautix.com/lvfam/saturnc.htm Saturn-C family] and [http://www.astronautix.com/lvfam/nova.htm Nova family] at Astronautix.com.
 
For more information see, for example, [http://www.astronautix.com/lvfam/saturnc.htm Saturn-C family] and [http://www.astronautix.com/lvfam/nova.htm Nova family] at Astronautix.com.
Line 214: Line 230:
 
===Saturn 1===
 
===Saturn 1===
  
−
The Saturn 1 was the precursor to the Saturn 1b, using an SIV stage in place of the SIVB. The SIV was smaller, with a lower fuel capacity, and used multiple RL10 engines in place of the J2 engine on the SIVB.
+
The Saturn 1 was the precursor to the Saturn 1B, using an SIV stage in place of the SIVB. The SIV was smaller, with a lower fuel capacity, and used multiple RL10 engines in place of the J2 engine on the SIVB.
  
−
===Saturn 1b MLV===
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===Saturn 1B MLV===
  
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As part of NASA's cost-cutting plans, they studied a derivative of the Saturn 1b which would replace the S1B stage with a solid rocket similar in size to a shuttle SRB. In essence this was a 1960s version of NASA's new 'Stick' launcher for the CEV.
+
As part of NASA's cost-cutting plans, they studied a derivative of the Saturn 1b which would replace the S1B stage with a solid rocket similar in size to a shuttle SRB. In essence, this was a 1960s version of NASA's new 'Stick' launcher for the CEV.
  
 
===Saturn INT-21===
 
===Saturn INT-21===
  
−
Two-stage launcher used to launch large payloads into Earth orbit. This was used for the Skylab mission.
+
The two-stage launcher used to launch large payloads into Earth orbit. This was used for the Skylab mission.
  
 
===Saturn S-ID stage===
 
===Saturn S-ID stage===
Line 238: Line 254:
 
==Comparative screenshots==
 
==Comparative screenshots==
  
−
NASSP has changed significantly over the years, as models, textures and control panels were updated, historical accuracy was improved and new special effects were added. NASSP 5.x screenshots are currently missing as it won't run as released under Orbiter 2006.
+
NASSP has changed significantly over the years, as models, textures, and control panels were updated; historical accuracy was improved, and new special effects were added. NASSP 5.x screenshots are currently missing as it won't run as released under Orbiter 2006.
  
 
{| border="1" cellpadding="1"
 
{| border="1" cellpadding="1"
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{{HasPrecis}}
 
{{HasPrecis}}
  
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[[Category:Add-ons|PROJECTAPOLLO]]
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[[Category: Articles]]
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[[Category:Vessel add-ons|PROJECTAPOLLO]]
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[[Category:Orbiter 2010 add-ons]]
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[[category:realistic add-ons|PROJECTAPOLLO]]
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[[Category:Orbiter Beta add-ons]]
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[[Category:Vessel add-ons]]
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[[category:Realistic add-ons]]
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[[Category:Historical]]

Latest revision as of 03:43, 15 October 2022

Project home: SourceForge
Author: Team project
Current version: 7.0 (stable), 8.0 (beta)
Compatibility: Orbiter 2010 (7.0), Orbiter Beta (8.0)


Project Apollo for Orbiter (formerly known as NASA's Apollo Space Simulation Project or short: NASSP) is an add-on for Orbiter which features in-depth and accurate simulation of the Apollo missions.

Background[edit]

NASSP was originally developed by Jean-Luc Rocca-Serra, who released the source code to version 4.x. Mark Grant then rewrote the code as C++, added an initial C++ implementation of the Apollo Guidance Computer, and replaced the control panel bitmaps with new ones from P64. He subsequently released 'NASSP COSTAM' and a derivative which provided basic support for the Virtual AGC software.

Jean-Luc released NASSP 5.0, an updated version based on that source code, for the next release of Orbiter, including, for example, new particle exhaust support and a Skylab launch module.

With the 6.x release it became Project Apollo for Orbiter, an open source Apollo simulation add-on: for simplicity, both software variants are described here as NASSP. The latest 'stable' version is 7.0.

The 8.0 release is currently in beta, including a near-complete simulation of the command module control panel and most of the internal systems, and support for new spacecraft. It is also capable of flying most of an Apollo mission using the Virtual AGC software.

Features[edit]

As there is no definitive list of functionality changes between NASSP versions, many of these changes have been deduced from release documentation and test-flying of versions which are still available for download.

Early NASSP[edit]

Versions prior to 3.0 seem to be unavailable on the web. If anyone has a copy and can update this and/or add screenshots, please do so, or at least let us know what the differences are.

NASSP 3.x[edit]

  • Saturn 1b and ASTP support.
  • Rewritten to use Orbiter docking support.

NASSP 3.0 still runs under Orbiter 2006, with no modifications required.

NASSP 4.x[edit]

  • Control Panel for both Saturn V and Saturn 1b.
  • LEM Panel available.
  • Engine Gimbal control for all rocket stages, Service module and LEM.
  • Totally rewritten Autopilot (a semi auto mode is available for engine control only).
  • New Saturn V and Saturn 1b meshes.
  • Optional high-res Saturn V and Saturn 1b meshes.
  • Docking system enhancement etc...

NASSP 5.x[edit]

NASSP 5.0 control panel
  • New CSM and LEM meshes. Only high-res meshes supported for the Saturn 1b and Saturn V.
  • New control panels with illumination support from P64.
  • Skylab.
  • Exhaust particle streams.
  • New exhaust textures.
  • C++ AGC implementation for launch and TLI.
  • Rewritten in C++, to eliminate bugs and crashes due to global variable use.
  • Revised launch autopilot for increased accuracy.
  • Same functionality level for Saturn V and Saturn 1b.
  • NASSP-specific solar system configuration.

NASSP 5.x does not currently run under Orbiter 2006 as its Solar System files are incompatible with the new Orbiter format. It could probably be made to run with some changes to the config files.

As an extension to NASSP Rodion M. Herrera and others did the NEP (NASSP Enhancement Pack), which contains lunar landing scenarios and mission-specific astronauts etc. A modified NEP version is still available for Project Apollo - NASSP 6.4.3.

Also, there was an experimental Virtual AGC integration add-on called Virtual Apollo based on Mark Grant's NASSP_COSTAM v2. Meanwhile, it's obsolete and replaced by the Virtual AGC mode in Project Apollo - NASSP. The documentation is still online.

NCPP 1.0[edit]

NCPP (NASSP Complete Panel Project) was done by Matthias and Fabian Müller based on NASSP 5.2 and was the first version with realistic panels. Compared to the panels in the 7.0 beta, which are done by Matthias and Fabian Müller, too, it was only a beginning, of course.

  • New CSM and LM control panel

Project Apollo - NASSP 6.x[edit]

At the beginning of 2005 Jean-Luc Rocca-Serra wasn't able to further develop NASSP and the add-on began to scatter a little bit. Additionally to NASSP 5.2 and NEP 1.0 meanwhile, there was NCPP 1.0 and later on NASSP 6.1, which was an enhancement/fix of NCPP 1.0 for Orbiter 2005. Because all these add-ons depended on each other, at the worst time the user needed to install 7 or 8 files from 3 sites in a certain order. It was so weird that Dan Stephan wrote a quite adequate article about that on his site: "Houston, this add-on has a problem..."

At that point, some people (like Mark Grant, Matthias Müller, etc.) decided to move NASSP to SourceForge as a GNU GPL licensed open source project to save NASSP from vanishing completely and to make team development possible. At that point we wanted to rename the add-on to the more intuitive name "Project Apollo", but this project name wasn't available at SourceForge so we made a compromise and took NASSP as project "unix name" (SourceForge term for the unique project name used for URLs etc.) and "Project Apollo - NASSP" as project title and bundled all these components together for the 6.3 release.

  • Rebuilt for 2005 Orbiter release.
  • Basic virtual cockpit view.
  • New control panel.
  • Initial support for unmanned Saturn test flights.
  • More SIVB payloads.
  • Basic LEM ascent autopilot.
  • Improved AGC emulation.
  • Improved Saturn 1B autopilot.
  • More realistic command module aerodynamics.

Project Apollo - NASSP 7.0[edit]

NASSP 7.0 control panel
  • Fully functional 2D Panel Support throughout the CM.
  • 3D Virtual Cockpit (nonfunctional at the moment)
  • Realistic simulation of most major spacecraft systems.
  • Historically accurate checklists.
  • NEW CM, SM, and KSC meshes (VAB,LUT,LC34/37/39,MSS,MLP,Crawler etc.)
  • Integrated Virtual AGC.
  • Full launch and landing autopilot for the LEM, and enhanced autopilot for the Saturns and CSM.
  • Meshland integration.
  • Engineering camera views during launch.
  • Realism settings to accomodate orbinauts from 9 to 92!
  • Support for low-res Saturn 1b and Saturn V meshes as well as high-res.
  • Partial Apollo 5 (unmanned LEM test) support.
  • Service Module breaks up on re-entry, based on re-entry heating.
  • Apollo 13 oxygen venting simulation.

...and MORE!

Supported Spacecraft[edit]

Project Apollo for Orbiter 1.0/NASSP 7.0 supports a number of spacecraft. Most are historical spacecraft used in the Apollo program, but some are proposed post-Apollo designs which never flew in the real world.

Command and service module[edit]

NASSP 7.0 CSM in Earth orbit

NASSP simulates the Block II Command and service module, providing a home and life support for the astronauts in space.

The CM was the nerve center of the Apollo spacecraft, as it functioned as primary control and navigation platform during the missions. It housed the highly-advanced (for the 1960s) Apollo Guidance Computer, as well as all the systems the astronauts would need to safely re-enter earth's atmosphere.

The Service Module contained the systems that were vital for the extended stay of up to 10 days in space. This included fuel cells to provide power and water, as well as radiators to keep the internal systems cool. Also housed in the service module were the primary propulsion systems, including the RCS maneuverability thrusters and the SPS, used for major course corrections. In later Apollo lunar missions, this versatile component contained a SIM Bay for the additional scientific study of the lunar surface the space surrounding our nearest celestial neighbor.

As the core of the Apollo hardware, the CSM is a high priority for NASSP development. It has received a complete and ongoing overhaul for NASSP 7.0, complete with new graphics, meshes, and systems simulations.

Lunar Module[edit]

The Lunar Module was a two-stage lander used to land astronauts on the Moon and return them to orbit.

NASSP 7.0 LEM on the Moon

The lower Descent Stage carried the large Descent Engine, fuel for the landing, and batteries and supplies required for the stay on the Moon. It also carried a limited amount of cargo, including, on the later flights, the Lunar Rover. Its final role was to act as a launch pad for the Ascent Stage when the lunar landing phase was complete and they flew back to dock with the CSM in orbit.

The upper Ascent Stage provided living quarters for the crew while on the Moon, controls for the landing and ascent, and the smaller Ascent Engine and fuel to carry them into orbit. The Ascent Stage could dock with the CSM itself, but in normal circumstances the docking was flown by the more maneuvrable CSM.

Whereas the CSM was the brain and body, the LM was the heart of the Apollo Program. A high priority has been placed on the development of the LM for NASSP. It is currently in line for new graphics and meshes. Work is already underway on its internal systems.

Lunar Rover[edit]

Driving the NASSP 7.0 Lunar Rover

The Lunar Rover was a battery-driven electrically-powered vehicle used by the astronauts to drive around the lunar surface. While hardly a Ferrari, it allowed the astronauts to travel longer distances much faster than they could on foot.

The LRV was folded up in the side of the LEM during the flight, and removed and assembled by the astronauts after landing on the lunar surface. When the lunar exploration was complete, the LRV camera was also used to film the launch of the LEM Ascent Stage carrying the astronauts back to the CSM (though this isn't currently simulated in NASSP).

NASSP's LRV has been overhauled with the inclusion of a VC mesh and several working instruments. New animations and more realistic hardware simulation (e.g. power usage for the batteries) are on the drawing board.

Saturn V[edit]

The three-stage launcher used to launch command and service module and Lunar Module towards the Moon. This was used to launch Apollos 8 through 17. It is arguably the most powerful rocket ever flown into space.

The Saturn V in NASSP is a highly detailed and increasingly more realistic machine. Current development is minimal, as it has already reached a high level of detail and accuracy.

Saturn IB[edit]

The two-stage launcher used to launch a Command/Service Module into Earth orbit. This was used for Apollo 7, the Skylab flights, and the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project flight. Recent studies have shown that the Saturn IB may have been one of the most cost-effective boosters in lbs per dollar.

Like the Saturn V, NASSP's Saturn IB is highly detailed and extremely accurate. As a result, it is not a high priority at this time.

ASTP Docking Module[edit]

Although rather limited as a spacecraft in its own right, the Apollo-Soyuz Test Program Docking Module allows an Apollo command and service module to dock with a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in orbit and transfer crew between them. The Docking Module is carried into orbit as cargo on a Saturn 1B, in the same way, that the Lunar Module is carried as cargo on a Saturn V.

Development on the Docking Module is currently stalled as work proceeds on higher-priority items, however, it is open to further development and will more likely than not see its share of upgrades.

'Apollo to Venus' Wet Workshop test[edit]

'Wet Workshop' test SIVB burn

NASA's Manned Venus Flyby plans using Apollo technology would have used an SIVB stage to launch a three-man crew towards Venus, after which they would vent remaining fuel from the SIVB, extend solar panels, and live in it as a Skylab-style space station. They would conduct generalized astronomical and zero-gravity experiments for most of their trip, and for a few days around the flyby, they would conduct detailed observations of Venus.

NASSP 7.0 includes a simulation of the first test phase, in which the astronauts would use the SIVB to raise their orbit for a test of the 'wet workshop' of up to one month in duration. Rather than solar panels, the test phase uses batteries in the SIVB stage to provide power to supplement the Service Module fuel cells and conserve consumables in the Service Module for the return to Earth.

Although not a historically real mission, this proposal from the Apollo Applications Program is an intriguing and exciting 'fictional' mission. NASSP is developing this capability both as a historical curiosity and as research/exploration into the feasibility of such a concept.

Saturn INT-20[edit]

Saturn INT-20

The two-stage launcher used in a similar manner to the Saturn 1b to launch a Command/Service Module and larger payload into Earth orbit: essentially a cut-down Saturn V with no second stage, mounting an SIVB stage directly on top of the S1C first stage. The S1C also had one engine removed, as the five-engine stage produced too much thrust and would have caused problems with excessive dynamic pressure during launch.

The primary benefit of the INT-20 was a payload capacity about half-way between the Saturn 1b and Saturn V without the cost of creating a new launcher from scratch: the stages were close enough in design that they could be built on the same production line as the Saturn V stages. A three-engine version with a lower payload was also studied but isn't simulated in NASSP.

Another non-historic craft, the INT-20 showed much promise on the drawing board and NASSP hopes to bring such promise to live in the virtual world.

Future spacecraft[edit]

There are a number of candidates for future additions to the spacecraft simulated in NASSP.

Apollo to Venus[edit]

Phases of 'Apollo to Venus' flyby plans

Phase B of the Apollo to Venus plan called for the addition of solar panels to the 'wet workshop' and the use of a Block III CSM so that the astronauts would fly the SIVB into a high altitude orbit for a year-long mission in preparation for an actual fly-by.

Phase C of the Apollo to Venus plan would use an improved version of the 'wet workshop' SIVB with a Block-IV CSM to perform the actual Venus flyby.

Wikipedia has some more information.

Command and service module[edit]

Support may be added for the proposed Block-III CSM with batteries for power in place of fuel cells, and the Block-IV CSM with batteries for power and LEM engines in place of the SPS.

In addition, the inclusion of a Block-I CSM in future versions has been discussed.

Long-Range Flyer/Lunar Escape System[edit]

Long Range Flyer

Simple two-man rocket using fuel from the LEM. This could be used for scouting missions to sites up to around 50 miles from the main landing site, or, in an emergency, to carry two astronauts from the lunar surface to rendevouz with the CSM.

See the Wikipedia article for more information.

Lunar Motorbike[edit]

Designed as a backup to the Lunar Rover. See NASA image.

Original Saturn plans[edit]

The original Saturn-A, -B, -C, and Nova designs, possibly including the earlier lunar landing plans based on multiple launches, or the single launch putting the entire CSM onto the Moon using the massive Saturn C-8 booster.

For more information see, for example, Saturn-C family and Nova family at Astronautix.com.

Project Able LEM[edit]

A plan to use a mirror in space to light up parts of the Vietnam jungle at night. A modified LEM with a huge flexible mirror attached would be launched into space where the mirror would unfold.

A similar plan proposed using a modified LEM to fly to Soviet satellites and spray paint over their sensors: effectively the first space vandals.

Project Icarus[edit]

Proposal to divert or destroy an incoming asteroid by launching 100 Megaton nuclear bombs on Saturn Vs.

Saturn 1[edit]

The Saturn 1 was the precursor to the Saturn 1B, using an SIV stage in place of the SIVB. The SIV was smaller, with a lower fuel capacity, and used multiple RL10 engines in place of the J2 engine on the SIVB.

Saturn 1B MLV[edit]

As part of NASA's cost-cutting plans, they studied a derivative of the Saturn 1b which would replace the S1B stage with a solid rocket similar in size to a shuttle SRB. In essence, this was a 1960s version of NASA's new 'Stick' launcher for the CEV.

Saturn INT-21[edit]

The two-stage launcher used to launch large payloads into Earth orbit. This was used for the Skylab mission.

Saturn S-ID stage[edit]

A modified S1C stage which dropped the outer four engines in a similar manner to the Altas dropping two of its engines during launch. As well as multi-stage launchers with greater payloads, it could carry 50,000 pounds to low orbit itself with no second stage.

Saturn V-24[edit]

Saturn V with stretched stages, new toriodal aerospike engines on the upper stages, uprated F-1 engines on the first stage, and four strap-on boosters with two F-1 engines each. Capable of putting over 500,000 pounds of payload into low Earth orbit.

Skylab[edit]

The NASSP 5.x Skylab sources were lost, so a new version will be required once the INT-21 support is added.

Comparative screenshots[edit]

NASSP has changed significantly over the years, as models, textures, and control panels were updated; historical accuracy was improved, and new special effects were added. NASSP 5.x screenshots are currently missing as it won't run as released under Orbiter 2006.

NASSP 3.x Saturn 1b Launch
NASSP 3.x Saturn V Launch
NASSP 3.x CSM docked with LEM and SIVB
NASSP 3.x Saturn 1b Launch
NASSP 3.x Saturn V Launch
NASSP 3.x CSM docked with LEM and SIVB
NASSP 4.x CSM and LEM
NASSP 4.x CSM and LEM orbit Moon
NASSP 4.x crew post-splashdown
NASSP 4.x CSM and LEM
NASSP 4.x CSM and LEM orbit Moon
NASSP 4.x crew post-splashdown
NASSP 6.x Apollo 11 launch
NASSP 6.x Saturn V first stage seperation
NASSP 6.x lunar module on Moon
NASSP 6.x Apollo 11 launch
NASSP 6.x Saturn V first stage seperation
NASSP 6.x lunar module on Moon
NASSP 7(beta) Saturn 1b Launch
NASSP 7(beta) Tower Seperation
NASSP 7(beta) SM Breakup
NASSP 7(beta) Saturn 1b Launch
NASSP 7(beta) Tower Seperation
NASSP 7(beta) SM Breakup
NASSP 7(beta) SIC/SII staging
NASSP 7.0 CSM docked with LEM and SIVB
NASSP 7.0 Apollo 5 launch
NASSP 7(beta) SIC/SII staging
NASSP 7.0 CSM docked with LEM and SIVB
NASSP 7.0 Apollo 5 launch

Historical documents[edit]

A number of historical documents have been used in NASSP development. A selection of the more important ones are:

See also[edit]

External links[edit]

Precis[edit]

This article has a precis and appears in the Random addon or Random article section on the Main Page. The precis can be found at Project Apollo for Orbiter/precis and is displayed below.

NASSP 7.0 CSM in Earth Orbit

Project Apollo for Orbiter (aka NASSP) simulates the Apollo missions to Earth orbit and the Moon, and is slowly expanding to simulate planned post-Apollo missions that never flew. The latest beta version features a near-full implementation of the control panels in the Command Module and Lunar Module, and an increasingly accurate simulation of the internal systems (e.g. electrical distribution, fuel cells). Also in the latest beta is support for the Virtual AGC software, which allows you to run precisely the same on-board guidance software as used by the real Apollo Guidance Computer. (More...)


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