Distances in SE IV

JurijD · #1 August 30th, 2003, 12:59 PM

How can I calculate the distance between star systems so I�ll know which GQR level I need to open a WP to the desired system...

So: how far is "one square distance" ?

thanks

General Woundwort · #2 August 30th, 2003, 04:09 PM

Yep, 1 square=10 LY, according to the manual.

Suicide Junkie · #3 August 30th, 2003, 04:56 PM

And don't forget your Pythagorean Theorem!

True Distance = SQRT( horizontal² + vertical² )

Mephisto · #4 August 31st, 2003, 01:36 AM

If I recall correctly one square is 10 light years.

sachmo · #5 October 7th, 2003, 04:45 AM

What about distance on the tactical map?

Fyron · #6 October 7th, 2003, 05:02 AM

That is a totally relative value, and there is no set real value for it.

Erax · #7 October 7th, 2003, 02:49 PM

In fact, if you want the system maps to be even moderately realistic, you have to assume that the squares represent a greater distance towards the edges than near the center.

Loser · #8 October 7th, 2003, 03:30 PM

In order to regard the squares on the system or tactical map as realistic I've felt that they could not be assumed to correspond to distances.

I think it is best to think that the X- and Y-Axis do not represent anything like an X- or Y-Axis in space, but rather various aspects of an orbit, distance and speed. We don't have to know what those aspects specifically are, because I think we'd be hard pressed to get something that fits exactly.

This would explain why 'thrust' appears to provide 'movement' and not 'acceleration'. If velocity is already figured into the sectors, then acceleration would just move you from sector to sector at a constant rate. Still, QNP makes more sense than stock propulsion.

This would also fit with the way that a one-sector asteroid collection is labeled an 'asteroid belt', as that one sector comprises a whole orbit. As well, this fits with the way that the planets do not move.

General Woundwort · #9 October 7th, 2003, 04:00 PM

If you're wondering "How far is a square?",
and other science facts,
just repeat to yourself "It's just a game -
I should really just relax."

Loser · #10 October 7th, 2003, 04:48 PM

In this group!?!
Hah!
You make laugh-funny.

And while we're on the "We Didn't Really Ask Why?" program, allow me to add this.

Missiles don't just stop, or otherwise explode, when they reach the edge of their range. What they do is they run out of maneuvering fuel. Once that runs out, the missile is very unlikely to hit its target. In fact, it doesn't hit its target. Remember that space is very, very big. Missiles and ships are both very, very small.

Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong.