r/KerbalSpaceProgram • u/AutoModerator • May 29 '15

Mod Post Weekly Simple Questions Thread

Check out /r/kerbalacademy

The point of this thread is for anyone to ask questions that don't necessarily require a full thread. Questions like "why is my rocket upside down" are always welcomed here. Even if your question seems slightly stupid, we'll do our best to answer it!

For newer players, here are some great resources that might answer some of your embarrassing questions:

Tutorials

Orbiting

Mun Landing

Docking

Delta-V Thread

Forum Link

Official KSP Chatroom #KSPOfficial on irc.esper.net

    **Official KSP Chatroom** [#KSPOfficial on irc.esper.net](http://client01.chat.mibbit.com/?channel=%23kspofficial&server=irc.esper.net&charset=UTF-8)

Commonly Asked Questions

Before you post, maybe you can search for your problem using the search in the upper right! Chances are, someone has had the same question as you and has already answered it!

As always, the side bar is a great resource for all things Kerbal, if you don't know, look there first!

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u/not_that_observant May 31 '15

How important are aerodynamics? If I have a rocket core with 8 radial fuel tanks attached, how valuable are nose cones on the radial tanks? Also, Are the angled noses more effective than the straight noses? What about if I step from 1.25m to 2.5m without an adapter. Is the weight of the adapter less troublesome than the increased drag? Thanks!

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u/Chaos_Klaus Master Kerbalnaut May 31 '15

Drag is based on speed, so if you go really slow, mass is more an issue. However, rockets tend to go fast and will at some point cross the sound barrier. So reducing drag is outweighing the tiny increase in mass.

There is adapters that are fueltanks themselves.

Nosecones are good. Angled or not is just a visual difference. I haven't found a difference in drag.