I could use some help on a first plugin - for VAB background modification

[horndgmium]

Hi guys,

So I had an idea the other day, inspired both by extraplanetary launchpads and universe replacer. I figured, why not simply change the background for the VAB - as in, instead of looking out over the launchpad during construction, you look out over Kerbin from orbit while you're throwing parts together. While I don't really have traditional understanding of coding, I was looking through my squad files to try to figure out how they use the background the do for the VAB. I normally am able to logic through the progression of code, but this has so far been entirely elusive to me. If someone wants to help me through this, that would be SO awesome.

For now, I'm strictly interested in switching the VAB background to that of an orbital view of Kerbin or a view of literally any other background (oceans, from the mun, Jool orbit, etc., you guys get the idea). I also wouldn't know how to actually insert the background (a static image I'm sure would be easier, but I'd love to watch Kerbin rotate whilst building rockets). So all told, I propose the following phases for development:

Phase I - Replacement of the VAB background with an orbital view of Kerbin.

1. Static image

2. Orbital Rotation

Phase II - The ability to actually release ships from an Orbital VAB

1. Spawning of ships into orbit

2. Integration with EPL capabilities to have a part to spawn from?

3. An actual physical building in orbit

4. Animation of a ship being released from the OVAB

Phase III - Modification of the VAB internals

1. Floating Kerbal engineers

2. A more sensible design for oribtal construction (cylindrical shape, no floor as we know it now)

3. Launch clamp-like tethers to prevent whatever you are constructing from floating away

Phase IV - An orbital SPH

Please let me know what you guys think!

If someone wants to take over that's cool too... I just wanted to get the idea out because I think this would be incredibly awesome to have. I just figured that instead of asking people to create mods, I'd attempt to create one for once (albeit with copious amounts of assistance from modders).

Edited April 11, 2014 by horndgmium