[WIP] Atmospheric Resource Processor - I need your help!

[Aurum6]

This project began as an attempt to create a custom part to go along with this mod. It's a great idea that I'd like to use in my own game, but I was a bit put off that it re-purposed stock parts rather than using a custom part. However, rather than complain to the mod's creator, I decided to make one myself. Here's my model:

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As you can see, I only have a placeholder texture so far (just the AO layered over a metallic texture I downloaded).

This is where I need help. I don't really have an eye for this type of thing, so everything I've tried adding to it so far has looked... strange. I'm looking for suggestions for how I should texture this model: what the tanks should look like, any decals or warning labels, etc. Just to clarify, I'm not asking how to texture, I think I know my way around GIMP and Blender well enough. What I want to know is how to make it looks like it belongs in KSP.

Any advice is appreciated,

Aurum6

[MatterBeam]

If it's atmospheric, it has to be streamlined.

If it's atmospheric, and designed to be flown from the ground, up into space, then re-enter, it must look like it has some sort of thermal shielding.

Basically, take your pick of stock Mk1/2 textures, make a dark pit for the intake and have your pick of protruding tank colours. If you want warning signs, how about a "don't climb into the intake, Jeb" warning triangle, eh?

[Selentic]

If it's atmospheric, it has to be streamlined.

If it's atmospheric, and designed to be flown from the ground, up into space, then re-enter, it must look like it has some sort of thermal shielding.

Basically, take your pick of stock Mk1/2 textures, make a dark pit for the intake and have your pick of protruding tank colours. If you want warning signs, how about a "don't climb into the intake, Jeb" warning triangle, eh?

Actually you'll probably just land the thing inside of an aeroshell - it's just supposed to sit on the ground and suck in air and water for your Duna base.

Edited May 17, 2015 by Selentic
kant spll :(

[MatterBeam]

Actually you'll probably just land the thing inside of an aeroshell - it's just supposed to sit on the ground and suck in air and water for your Duna base.

Ah, in that case, it doesn't not need to be aerodynamic, but it does have to be dark grey or charcoal black. A hot chemical reactor running on Mars/Duna would heat quicker than on Earth/Kerbin due to the thinner atmosphere and lack of radiators. Since sunlight is low, the black color helps it radiate its heat away.

[Palaceviking]

White, to radiate heat.