Jak's early Kerbin test craft

[Jakalth]

Well, this time it's nothing fancy.  Just two early game testing craft I've been using for campaign mode, to grind science on kerbin.

 

The first is this second generation surface vehicle that only uses early unlocked parts.  Tier 1 R&D building.  This small craft is a Juno powered rover using stearable landing gear.  It does a nice job at griding out those early measurement assignments near the KSC.  In this configuration, it is capable of quite high speeds on land, and can turn safely at speeds of just over 35m/s on level ground.  Much higher speed turns can be made and turning on rough ground can be made if your willing to take the risk.  It has proven to be one of the best little land vehicles I've made and I still use it in my game.

Science Putzer Mk.2

 

The current configuration I've been using has extended usability with better landing gear, power generation, and lots of science equipment installed.  It's safe turning speed, with the small retractable landing gear, has been improved to just over 40m/s.  It's top speed seems to be a bit higher as well.

 

The second craft is an early game flier that I've found to be endlessly useful.  It's a small Juno powered aircraft that I've been using to complete all the lower altitude "haul this to altitude" and "test this at x height and y speed".  The little craft is quite fast, for being Juno powered, and also quite nimble, nearing super maneuverability.  It's top speed, at 500 meters, is just over mach 1(~360m/s) and it's max operational altitude is around 10,000 meters.  Although, it carries a limited fuel reserve, meaning it's not capable of extended flights.

I've used it to carry some fairly heavy parts to altitude before, like the rocket engine I've got on it's back in this picture.

And due to it's small size, it has a nice and low cost for each flight.  So completing the mission and returning to the airstrip means the mission was highly profitable.

srhstc (Short Range High Speed Test Craft)

 

I hope you enjoy these simple craft and that they are able to inspire you onwards in your endeavors.

Edited December 1, 2015 by Jakalth
had to test if img links worked.