How do you use "maneuvers" in the map?

[BaneOfPilots]

I don't get anything concerning the maneuvers and ascending/descending nodes. What do all of these mean and how do you use them?

[Pursuedtank]

Well the ascending and descending nodes refer to the place of your orbit crosses the equator. A 0 degree ascending/descending node is orbiting on the horizon.

[Cykyrios]

When you click on your orbit, you can create a maneuver. The gizmo that appears consists of 6 icons, placed along 3 axes. You can also grab the center of the gizmo to move your maneuver node around.

The yellow icons are the prograde (circle) and retrograde (crossed circle) axis, which is the direction of your current velocity vector.

The blue icons are the radial in and out axis, which is the normal of your velocity vector, contained in your orbital plane.

The purple icons are the normal + and - axis, which is the product of the previous two vectors.

Now if you select a target, the ascending and descending nodes will appear: these are the points in your orbit where the orbital planes cross. If you burn along normal+ at the descending node (and vice-versa) you will align the 2 planes.

As for the radial axis, it will alter the general shape of your orbit, while the velocity vector will tend to affect the opposite side of your orbit more.

Also try to look for tutorials on youtube, you will probably get a better explanation than words can give.

[IsaacHeron]

http://wiki.kerbalspaceprogram.com/wiki/Maneuver_node

[BaneOfPilots]

Ah, I think I get it now. I can finally get orbits right. Thanks guys!