Some Noob questions (radiators, containers)

[Vikins]

1. When and for what purposes we are using cooling radiators, who can explain?

2. Which instruments I have to use to elevate  unsymmetrical things (like a rover) to the orbit? I saw some special composite containers (opens like a flower), can I use it without mods?

[Starhawk]

1. Radiators are used to manage heat in a variety of situations.  The Nerva engine generates significant heat and with its low TWR leading to long burn times, can overheat.  The ISRU equipment (drills and refineries) generate large amounts of heat which must be managed.  Operations near the Sun (aka Kerbol) may require cooling equipment to prevent overheating.

2. Aerodynamic fairings are part of the stock game and allow objects with poor aerodynamic qualities to be shielded from the air turbulence during ascent.

Hope this helps.

Happy landings!

[Foxster]

1. When mining for ore. The drill can overheat and its efficiency will reduce. 

2. You can either put it inside a one-use protective shell or inside a cargo bay - no mods needed.

[bewing]

1. Besides mining, you can use the coolers in any situation where your ship starts to overheat. Reentry is the biggest example.

2. Rovers that you make in the SPH can be moved into the VAB and stuck on top of rockets. You can use fairings if you want, but I think they are a mistake. Try it both ways, and decide.