Is there a simpler ("*** for Dummies) version of this tutorial?

[JackBush]

I'm trying to gain a better understanding of apoapsis and periapsis and how to adjust orbits. I found this in the wiki but it's way too technical for someone like me, used to playing Assassin's Creed and Grand Theft Auto. Is there an easier discussion somewhere?

Edited October 7, 2015 by JackBush

[BlkBltChemie]

I would recommend checking out either of these links - I used them frequently when I first started out.

Navball: This gives an overview of how to read the Navball - maybe not entirely relevant to your post.

Maneuver Node: This one is specifically on how to use maneuver nodes, but the same things apply when you are conducting a burn in general without a maneuver node. (In fact, I might suggest setting up a maneuver node and playing around with the arms to see how it affects your orbit.) Particularly useful are the images about 2/3 of the way down the page. Bear in mind this applies for any point on the orbit, not just apoapsis and periapsis.

Hope one or both of these may prove useful for you!

[The_Rocketeer]

This section is much more practical, assuming you've started in science/sandbox and not career: http://wiki.kerbalspaceprogram.com/wiki/Maneuver_node

The manoeuvre node is the tool in KSP for modifying orbits. Learning how to use it also teaches you what kind of effect burning in different directions has.

Edit: what BlkBltChemie said.

[Starhawk]

Try taking a look at The Drawing Board. There are lots of great links there to various resources including a section on the basics.

Happy landings!

[JackBush]

Thanks to all of you for your various links and suggestions. I really love this game and realise that it is completely unlike any I've played before. Consequently, I'm taking my time and trying not to rush here and there. I'm an older guy (79) and have forgotten every physics fact I might ever have had in my head, and hence the need for simple 1,2,3 step methods. I'm grateful for this forum and the patient and generous people who respond. Thanks again.

[StormKat]

Kerbal Space Academy has always helped me.

Das has this way of explaining things that just makes sense.

[Cairol]

Try this.

To get a better understanding of basic orbital maneuvers, I also suggest you search Youtube for a KSP beginners tutorial.

For example:

[Superfluous J]

I'm an older guy (79) and have forgotten every physics fact I might ever have had in my head, and hence the need for simple 1,2,3 step methods.

That is at least as awesome as when we hear about a 13 year old playing the game. Truly a testament to how broad an audience this game appeals.

[The_Rocketeer]

That is at least as awesome as when we hear about a 13 year old playing the game. Truly a testament to how broad an audience this game appeals.

Heck, more so. Wish my grandpa played KSP...

[MaxwellsDemon]

Here's a book I found immensely useful in my understanding of the physics of space flight:

To Rise from Earth by Wayne Lee

https://books.google.com/books?id=WAuXNwAACAAJ&dq=to+rise+from+earth&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0CCYQ6AEwAGoVChMIqruU8t37xwIVhlGSCh3Wqgz7

It's very thorough without getting bogged down in the too-technical details (and it's an interesting book besides).