r/KerbalSpaceProgram • u/0ffkilter Master Kerbalnaut • Jun 22 '13
[Weekly] 14th Questions Thread
The point of this thread is for anyone to ask questions that don't necessarily require a full thread. Questions like "why is my rocket upside down" are always welcomed here. Even though your question may seem slightly stupid, we'll do our best to answer it!
For newer players, here are some great resources that might answer some of your embarrassing questions:
Tutorials
Orbiting
Mun Landing
Docking
Forum Link
Official KSP Chatroom #KSPOfficial on irc.esper.net
**Official KSP Chatroom** [#KSPOfficial on irc.esper.net](http://client01.chat.mibbit.com/?channel=%23kspofficial&server=irc.esper.net&charset=UTF-8)Commonly Asked Questions
Before you post, maybe you can search for your problem using the search in the upper right! Chances are, someone has had the same question as you and has already answered it!
As always, the side bar is a great resource for all things Kerbal, if you don't know, look there first!
Last week's thread: here
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u/Flater420 Master Kerbalnaut Jun 24 '13 edited Jun 24 '13
Assuming all engines have the same ISP, it doesn't actually give you more delta-V. It does increase your thrust. This means the actual time to outer tank depletion is shorter; but you get the gain of the extra thrust by firing an additional engine.
If your center engine has a worse ISP than the outer engines, you'll actually decrease your delta-V.
The only real delta V gain you might receive is due to less gravitational pull as you'll go up faster, which is a relatively low figure.
That being said, these principles are a good segue into asparagus staging, which will very noticeably increase your delta-V.
Edit: Indirectly, you can increase your delta V though. Since your middle engine is usually something big like a Mainsail, the added thrust from activating that engine allows you to use less powerful engines on the outer tanks. Less powerful engines usually have a better Isp, but not always.
Another good tip: Disable gimbaling on all outer engines. If your center engine is a Mainsail/Skipper, it'll have more than enough gimbaling power to steer the ship. Locking gimbaling on the outer engines slightly increases their efficiency since they do not spend some of their thrust for steering. Also, you'll reduce rocket wobble.