Controlling unmanned command pods

[weirdoman315]

I just bought this game today and have been trying to get a probe to orbit Kerbin. However I notice that it is nearly impossible to make the rocket that the probe is using to turn. I tried using the same design but with a manned pod, and I was able to maintain a stable orbit and everything, because it would actually turn. Any ideas on what I'm doing wrong? I don't know if there are certain items that I need to put on the probe to control it or anything of that nature.

[adinfinitum]

If you look at the stats for the command pods and probe cores in the Vehicle Assembly Building, you should see that there are some values labeled pod torque, or something else to that effect. If I remember right, the manned capsules have values of 10-20, while the probe cores are closer to 1.5. For the torque, a higher number means you have more power to turn, so it helps you to turn faster.

If you want to be able to turn a ship with just a probe core faster, then you should place an SAS/reaction wheel module on your rocket. That will add torque, at the cost of additional electricity use.

[Tripzter]

The main thing you probably are doing wrong is you dont have enough electricity. I'd suggest tossing a thermal generator on there.

[Sirine]

More SAS... More battery, more thermal generator.

[AlamoVampire]

yup, what they all say is right.

but, heres a list:

1. add either an ASAS (Advanced SAS) or an SAS

2. more batteries, solar cells, thermal generators

3. larger probe core

4. check your Center of Gravity, its a button at the bottom of the VAB on the lower left side of the screen, can show Center of Mass or Center of Gravity, Center of Thrust and one other thing, but for the life of me cannot remember its name

hope that little list helps, oh, and welcome to the fun!

[magnemoe]

power is an requirement, an small battery and an four small flat solar panels or an rtg.

if the probe is large as in orange tank sized add one of the new 2.5 meter sas torque modules it let you handle an 100 ton ship well.