Why is my space station so small? Also, some other questions

[photogineer]

So, after (finally) rescuing all of my Kerbals from Mun attempt errors (and one successful landing!) I decided I really enjoyed all the rendezvous and docking I had to do to rescue all of them. Thus, my next project was born, the Kerbal Space Station, KSS for short, in LKO. It would serve as an orbiting gas station and recharging port for spacecraft and cell phones. So I designed and launched a station core with two Gigantor panels, and docking ports on either end. I used the launch vehicle to put that in to orbit. Next I built, launched and attached a station propulsion unit and construction tug, and after some harrowing docking, put it all together:

It looks too small, I realize it's just 3 components, 1 of which is temporary, but after seeing videos and screenshots of other stations I expected the solar panels and everything to be bigger. Are those stations just using different part packs? or is there a bigger solar panel I missed? I realize this is kind of a silly aesthetic thing, but I enjoy building big things! Right now this looks more like a gangly ship than a station. I am planning a few additional modules:

• Command Control Module - with a Cupola observation deck and all the ASAS/probe body things (role currently held by the construction tug)
  
• Habitation module - probably made from hitchhiker pods, unless there is something better to use?
  
• Fuel tanker modules - large fuel tanks for storing LF/OX for ships to refill from
  
• Multi-ship docking adapter - for the ships to dock to for refueling/parking
  
• Crew Escape Vehicle - something that can be loaded with Kerbals and cut loose in the event of an emergency
  

So, I guess I'm looking for general advice to make sure I'm on the right track here, what does everyone think of the initial build, the plan and my not-so-Gigantor panels? Any other key modules a good station should have?

Also, I learned my first lesson the hard way, RCS thrusters are no good without some kind of fuel! My propulsion module (opposite the tug in the above image) was unable to dock because it had no way to translate and make small maneuvers. I ended up getting it close with the main engine on it, swiveling it around to mostly line up, and then docking the station to it! In reverse! Have you ever tried to dock in reverse? It's kind of thrilling... and terrifying. So much fun!

Matt

[Vrana]

There are, indeed, mods with larger panels.

I belive you will find the biggest solar arrays in Kosmos but there might be others.

That said. I wouldnt worry about size. Wont be long before you realize less is more in space.

[Lohan2008]

Add more solar panels by using 2x 2 structural fuselage and connector to make a T.

* Small is better > as they are easier to move.

Edited November 24, 2013 by Lohan2008

[Turvok]

I can't link u the picture of mine as I'm on my cell atm. But back in 0.19 I used the truss pieces and built a large T of them coming Off the center of my station. I then put 8 gigantor solar panels on it. 2 top and 2 bottom for each of the 2 sides. When everything unfolded it definitely looked a little more impressive.

The light truss pieces I'd assume are quote a bit lighter then structural fuselage. U just need to add a few struts to get it into orbit.

[Taki117]

Here's a pic of my first station that I ever put into orbit. Wobbled something awful and I downloaded B9 so I decided to replace it.

Out with the old:

In with the New:

[LethalDose]

If the station does everything you need it to do, then its not too small.

[700NitroXpress]

If you like building big stations with lots of solar panels, come join me at Leviathan Engineering! (http://forum.kerbalspaceprogram.com/threads/58749-Leviathan-Engineering)

These are made with all stock parts. The stations look bigger than they actually are because the solar arrays are doubled up and next to each other. A good station should be able to service all types of craft and refuel them. It should also have enough docking port options so you can dock both large and small vessels to it. The station should also be able to go a while without needing to be refueled itself.

You can build things like these:

Edited November 24, 2013 by 700NitroXpress