Newbie interface question

[ArchangelGabriel]

I can't find a reference that explains this (though that's likely because I don't know where to look). When attempting my first orbital launch I cannot select my Periapsis or Apoapsis points, and my orbit is gray in the map view. I'm unable to create Maneuver Nodes as a result. Is it because I have not yet unlocked relevant technology in Career mode, or because my Kerbal pilot has not yet reached level 1? Or is it some other arcane sorcery I have yet to suss out?

[Master Tao]

You'll need to upgrade your Tracking Station. Right click on it to get that option.

[Norpo]

You need to upgrade your tracking station, I believe. It costs funds, and to upgrade it you right click the building.

It might also need an Research and Development upgrade too, I don't normally play career, though.

edit: ninja'd >.>

[AlexinTokyo]

To add to Master Tao's answer, upgrading the tracking station will get you the patched conics (blue trajectory lines, selectable apsides, and encounter/escape points).

To get access to maneuver nodes, you will also have to upgrade the mission control building.

[SRV Ron]

In Career, you need to earn the funds to upgrade both tracking and administration. Best to hold off on Mun and other missions until you have made the upgrade. In the meantime, you can use the Kerbal Engineering Mod for the stats after it is unlocked and place it's module on your pod. It will greatly help in giving you orbital information during powered flight.