Help on a Eve Return Lander design

[SonicControlre]

Ok, I'm designing a Return Lander that is capable of both landing and return from Eve, and after stupidly posted a question type forum (whatever it's called) (and got help from fellow fliers) I decided to just make a new topic type (again, whatever it's called) forum, to ask for help from you guys.

I took some advice from said fliers (if that is a proper title) and currently decreasing the mass of my ship (which testing is troublesome but luckily I have the almighty HyperEdit).

Again, I appreciate the help given by the guys who gave advice and help in my previous question typ- whatever!

Here is the link if you also have the same trouble and wanted to see more advice: My Previous QTF (Question Type Forum)

PS: Does anyone knows a TWR calculator around here? 

PPS: Cookies and snacks for everyone here.

Edited December 5, 2015 by Red Iron Crown
Forgot to type in "testing" on second paragraph

[Foxster]

I'd install either the KER and/or Mechjeb mods. Both have very good dynamic dV calculators. 

[fourfa]

You really, really need KER to look at what's going on in Eve's atmosphere in the VAB.  The MJ readout isn't as flexible or obvious.

[SonicControlre]

Downloaded KER, despite my tortoise internet.

Also, my lander is too heavy for just five spikes to lift it, any ideas?

[fourfa]

Not surprised, as the spike doesn't have top thrust-to-weight ratio on Eve (or anywhere for that matter).  You can have a try with more spikes (1.25m core stage surrounded by 6x 1.25m boosters).  You'll probably find a design with two layers of asparagused boosters (i.e 13 spikes) that lifts OK.  

Or for a less maddening design, look at using a Vector or four as first-stage engines.  If they can get you to 20km, a single spike should be able to get a simple pod to orbit from there.

I think I put this on your other thread, might as well here too:

Edited December 5, 2015 by fourfa

[Red Iron Crown]

Moved over to Gameplay Questions.