PEGAS, short for Powered Explicit Guidance Ascent System, is an ascent autopilot for Kerbal Space Program using the kOS mod. It is designed to control launch vehicles under a modified version of the game running Realism Overhaul (although it should run in vanilla as well). Its unique feature is the implementation of a real-word rocket guidance algorithm: Unified Powered Flight Guidance, as used in the Space Shuttle GN&C computer for the standard ascent flight mode. Short list of what PEGAS is capable of:
- estimation of the launch window,
- calculation of tha launch azimuth,
- atmospheric ascent (pick one of two guidance methods),
- automatic guidance to orbits defined by apoapse, periapse, inclination & LAN or selecting a target,
- execution of timed events (e.g. throttle control, engine shutdown, jettison, even custom activities via kOS delegates),
- automatic staging, complete with jettison, ullage, and ignition,
- ...and nearly anything else you want - via addons!
More info on my KSP forum thread, also see my prototype repository.
- Make sure you have kOS installed. Note: basic knowledge of kOS will be very handy.
- Dowload the program files for the current release and place them in your
Scriptfolder. - Define your vehicle and mission - see tutorial and reference.
- Once on the launch pad, load the definitions from pt. 2. and type
run pegas.in kOS terminal.
PEGAS is not a magical do-it-all, it needs some effort to set up and get running. It has been tested with several launch vehicles, from real-world launchers like Atlas V or Saturn V, through user-made vehicles, both in RO and vanilla settings. However, I cannot guarantee that it will handle any vehicle or that it is entirely bug-free. Likely, it will take you several tries before you get your rocket flying - and maybe you will find yourself unable to do that at all. I am willing to provide support, correct bugs and (to some extent) introduce new functionalities to PEGAS. In case of problems: read the how to submit issues page and then visit the issue tracker.
Here is a video demonstration of the initial release of PEGAS in action, flying an Atlas V to a parking orbit aligned with the International Space Station. It mostly focuses on explanation of the underlying guidance algorithm, only showcasing what functions PEGAS has instead of explaining how to use them. For that I strongly recommend reading the tutorial.
