Space Station Blackouts and best orbit?

[ChrisWill]

So after I wrap up my Mun missions I'm think of building a space station. This is kinda a two part question by the way. So first, if my space station (using solar panels) has Kerbin block the sun every so often then wouldn't I eventually run out of power until I come around again? I think batteries should solve that though. Also what is the best orbit for a space station LKO, MKO or Geostationary?

Edited August 2, 2013 by ChrisWill

[Snooze]

As far as where you want to put it: what do you want to do with it? Is it gonna sit there and look pretty? Any orbit will do. Is it a refueling station? Low-orbit for spaceplanes, 250km or higher for refueling any sort of inter-planetary expedition. Are you launching it in one piece? Or modular? The higher the orbit, the harder to go modular (especially in Munar or Minmus orbit).

Batteries will help when you're in the dark half of your orbit. Most stations, however, can run off a pair of RTG's if part count is your concern (RTG's mean battery-free).

It's your station. Do with it what you will. =)

[ChrisWill]

Alright, great just didn't want to have a station operational half the time. It's going to be modular it's main service is refueling and the rest will be a couple of Habitats an show pieces really and part count isn't to big of a deal.

[annallia]

Even though my station has a huge battery reserve I stuffed 5 RTG's in it (one in each module). This way no matter what there will be some power coming in, also means that if I accidentally clip a solar panel or 3 (hey it happens) I am not without power coming in.

As to orbit, Snooze is dead on. If it is just there to say hey I did it then you can put it at whatever orbit you want. Fueling stations tend to do better in high orbit. In fact, any station that you are planning on visiting often I would suggest a higher orbit since you will be moving slower making docking easier. (at least for me). Speed is ultimately relative, but for some reason its easier to get to in a higher orbit.

[ChrisWill]

I'll probably stick some RTG's on also and probably put it in a 250km maybe more orbit. Also how do I mark threads as answered?

[EmanonP]

Go back to your original post, click on edit post, then click on go advanced. It will bring up the drop down box where you can choose answered/unanswered.

[ChrisWill]

Thank you EmanonP.