Vessel Viewer KSP

Purpose & User Intent: The Vessel Viewer KSP tool addresses the need to quickly quantify and visualize Kerbal Space Program vessel configurations. Target users are KSP players, educators, and designers who want immediate feedback on flight viability and design trade-offs without running a full simulator. Use when comparing vessels, planning missions, or teaching propulsion concepts.
Core Logic & Features: The tool ingests vessel parameters such as dry_mass_kg, propellant_mass_kg, payload_mass_kg, Isp_s, engine_thrust_kN, total_mass_kg, and environment flags (gravity_scale, atmosphere). It computes metrics including delta-v, thrust-to-weight, burn_time, and final_mass. Required features include mass data, propulsion specs, and environment settings. Optional features add gravity/atmosphere corrections, multi-stage delta-v, and data export. The tool also provides a compact SVG silhouette for quick reference.
Inputs & Outputs: Inputs are named, typed, and validated (mass in kg, Isp in s). Outputs include delta_v_m_s, thrust_to_weight, burn_time_s, final_mass_kg, payload_fraction, and an SVG reference. Algorithms & Calculations: Core calculation uses the Tsiolkovsky equation delta_v = Isp * g0 * ln(m0/mf), with m0 = dry_mass + propellant_mass + payload_mass, mf = dry_mass + payload_mass. Burn time approximations use propellant_mass and average thrust; atmosphere and gravity corrections apply simple factors. Error & Edge Cases: Validation checks reject negative or zero critical values; missing required inputs raise errors; if Isp <=0 or mass fractions are invalid, provide diagnostics and avoid calculations. Industry/Region & Localization: Uses SI units; default gravity g0 = 9.80665 m/s^2; no currency or locale-specific data; suitable for education and hobbyist simulations across regions. Assumptions & Exclusions: Assumes ideal rocket equation baseline; excludes full 3D dynamics, detailed aerodynamic losses, and professional mission planning); data export formats and 2D silhouette are simplified references only.