Moonbase revisited

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 00:37

As some of you may remember, years ago I looked into creating a "planetoid" sized model that would enable flying and docking on a surface-level object. There was a lengthy thread on the subject (long buried), and the idea was unsatisfactorily implemented in Transcend I mod (for Reunion).

While interminably waiting around for Rebirth, I decided to revisit the idea.

The main problem with the Transcend model, is it was too small, and the curvature really detracted from a feel of "realism".

Now in TC AP, I am able (for some reason) to use a much larger model. In addition, I have cut the "moon" in half, and created a flat surface on it. The idea being, that whatever ancient race engineered this strange object, was able to create an atmosphere and Terraform a small moon in this manner.

I still have work to do on it, but here is what I've come up with so far (pics updated Aug 17, 2012)

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The overall effect is CONSIDERABLY BETTER (with at least x10 the surface area) than my previous attempts, and this (in some form) will likely be included in the upcoming Transcend I for AP mod.

It does have a nice cozy feel to it as a respite from the blackness of outer space.

Anyway, I thought I'd share progress, and see if people have any feedback/ideas on whether something like this might have interest.

Sardaukar2488 · Post by **Sardaukar2488** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 07:29

Looks excellent so far, will definitely be keeping an eye on this. Is this thing close to the size of the asteroid in Aldrin?

From memory in TC im pretty sure you can collide with or "land" on the asteroid in Aldrin.

I imagine simulating gravity on said moon would be not something that would be implemented?

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 08:34

Currently the "moonbase" overall diameter is roughly the size of the Aldrin asteroid - although the way the moonbase is designed, the flat, flyable surface area is much larger than you'll find on that asteroid.

Here is a pic with an Argon Equip Dock placed near the surface to give you and idea of size:

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[EDIT] Obsolete image

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 17:47

For those who may be wondering, the size of this object, does not prevent docking to stations etc that are in close proximity to the surface.

Unlike previous versions, the current DBOX2 (3DS Max plugin) enables setting Collision parameters. This provides ability to trick the game into "thinking" the moonbase is much smaller than it actually is.

On the other hand, you can still crash into the surface; because X3 has both Collision Avoidance and Collision Detection.

At least this is what my initial results are showing me.

greypanther · Post by **greypanther** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 19:50

That looks really good Observe.

Could you change the surface somewhat though? Maybe a bit like a scene from Blade Runner, or is that asking way too much?
It just seems to be a bit out of sync with a sci fi game.

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 19:56

In what manner are you thinking greypanther?

Do you think different coloring for the landscape and clouds might suit better?

Thanks.

greypanther · Post by **greypanther** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 20:03

No I was thinking of a more industrial landscape, such as when they are flying towards the Corperation HQ in Blade Runner. Though I imagine there would be copyright issues with just taking the scene. ( Assuming that could be done! )

When I think about it, avoiding infringing copyright would probably mean you would have to do it all from scratch, which indeed is asking too much. Sorry.

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 20:08

I'll try a few different alternatives.

Part of the reason for the mountainous terrain is to suit the "story" that will be presented in the mod (if released).

Thanks

greypanther · Post by **greypanther** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 20:14

Well if you need a mountainous terain, you can still have a more industrial ' texture ' can't you?
How about adding some lakes? Trees? Wildlife? How about a nod towards Skyrim and adding some flying dragons?

Sorry I am getting carried away now.

I'll shut up.

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 20:19

greypanther wrote:Well if you need a mountainous terain, you can still have a more industrial ' texture ' can't you?
How about adding some lakes? Trees? Wildlife? How about a nod towards Skyrim and adding some flying dragons?

Some of that can be done. I am adding an "airport" with airstrip, buildings, and some trees. Possibly I may also add some lakes and/or rivers too.

Of course, the X3 engine is one of the major limiting factors in terms of landscaping possibilities.

greypanther · Post by **greypanther** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 20:25

I assume it would be possible to add othe ships?
If so why not flying wildlife?
In the XRM mod there are two Boron ships that are animated for instance. I forget who created them though sorry.

Killjaeden · Post by **Killjaeden** » Wed, 1. Aug 12, 20:32

their texture rotates around their geometry... not sure if you could count that as a living creature.

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Thu, 2. Aug 12, 07:13

Images (OP) updated to reflect new clouds. I decided to make them see-through when looking from the inside-out. I think this gives a better effect.

Sardaukar2488 · Post by **Sardaukar2488** » Thu, 2. Aug 12, 10:46

Observe wrote:Images (OP) updated to reflect new clouds. I decided to make them see-through when looking from the inside-out. I think this gives a better effect.

Not wrong, in fact i would even say it looks more "realistic".

I honestly cant wait to see this.

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Thu, 2. Aug 12, 18:35

Thanks Sardaukar2488.

This is actually coming along quite well. The poly count is very acceptable, and by splitting the model into multiple LOD's (Levels of Detail), there is no noticeable performance impact at all.

While already HUGE, my next tests will determine just how much bigger I can make it; while retaining quality appearance and functionality etc. My guess is, I'll be able to add least double the current size.

Docking to the airstrip works fine using methods I've previously utilized with special "long" invisible docking objects extending out into space.

Sam L.R. Griffiths · Post by **Sam L.R. Griffiths** » Thu, 2. Aug 12, 18:54

Looks very interesting.... Who said we could not land on planets in X3?

Will look forward to seeing the end product. BTW what happens when you try to dock big ships with it (or is the landing strip only for transports/fighters)

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Fri, 3. Aug 12, 07:38

Roger L.S. Griffiths wrote:BTW what happens when you try to dock big ships with it (or is the landing strip only for transports/fighters)

The test airstrip you see in the current images, is actually quite large - enough to easily accommodate Capital ships. In addition, I designed that plateau big enough for a large network of multiple landing strips, roads and airport buildings.

Once I complete test and development on the overall model, I'll design the final airport/spaceport in MS Flight Simulator, and import into X3. This because FS makes very nice looking runways and associated airport taxi pads etc.

TonyEvans · Post by **TonyEvans** » Fri, 3. Aug 12, 08:43

Looks sweet!

Imma try to explain an idea without sounding stupid.

There's a mountain

In the mountain there's a small tunnel leading from the outside, in, and then downwards.

After about 3km, the tunnel widens to a huge subterraneous cavern

This area could serve as a pirate base

Cavern should be large enough for a trading station, docking for m3-m6, then most freighters (not the ST ones... I think they're TL? )

dunno if its possible, but an underground base to call my own would be kinda cool

maybe even have a functional jumpbeacon in it? jumping right into my own underground base

Observe · Post by **Observe** » Fri, 3. Aug 12, 16:18

Hi Tony,

Very interesting you would have that idea (underground cavern), because that's almost exactly what I have planned for the moonbase, and basically what we did for the earlier Transcend I mod version.

As mentioned, the T1 moonbase (X3 Reunion) didn't work out very well because among other things, the MUCH smaller model really detracted from the "feel" of flying on the surface.

That first moonbase was 5 or six years ago, and my ideas and abilities for doing this sort of thing have evolved since then. This new model is vastly improved.

In this new version, the subterranean cavern will contain various objects - including a special jumpgate leading to "secret" sectors inhabited by the Mech's (ancient Xenon) depicted in our Transcend II mod.

The moonbase is in a sector named "Tree of Life", and there is quite a story associated with it that has never been told, but which will be part of this new mod.

TonyEvans · Post by **TonyEvans** » Fri, 3. Aug 12, 17:12

super cool. maybe we could even get a tunnel that would lead to the core of the earth to a very-ore-rich asteroid or something?

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Moonbase revisited

Moonbase revisited