Close vs Optimal?

[AngleWyrm]

So what is the difference between short-range, and optimal range?

I'm thinking about adding a new set of componants called RangeFinders. They would act like weapons, and fire like weapons, but do no damage, and use no ammo.

Adding one of these to a ship would make it possible to say "Maximum Range" and have that useful to an unarmed ship.

For instance, set the first RangeFinder to range-5, one-shot. Once it gets there, it fires, and a second rangefire kicks in with range of 10. so the ship steps back.

Why? Because carrier launch should be done on approach, so that the fighters form an attack cloud. Ideally, missiles should be timed to reach target at the same time as the fighters.