Three types of spaceship drives (also called engines or propulsion) are available: chemical engines, ion engines and atomic engines. Each of these types has certain limitations and requirements which are discussed in detail in their respective pages. Only Atomic and Ion drives are suitable for Interstellar Travel.
In addition to the drive itself, each ship must have a Drive Program for the on-board computer.
DRIVE PROGRAM CHART: Program Level (function points)
| Drive Type |
Size A |
Size B |
Size C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical |
1 (3) |
2 (6) |
3 (12) |
| Ion |
3 (12) |
4 (24) |
4 (24) |
| Atomic |
4 (32) |
5 (64) |
6 (128) |
Sizes[]
Engines of all three types come in three sizes, ranked from size A to size C. Size A is the smallest, and size C the largest. A hull must be equipped with the engine size appropriate for that hull size, as shown on the Hull Size/Engine Size Chart.
- Hull Size: 1-4 Engine Size: A
- Hull Size: 5-14 Engine Size: B
- Hull Size: 15-20 Engine Size C
All engines are supplemented with maneuver jet nozzles placed throughout the ship. These are used to take the ship through delicate maneuvers, such as docking with a station.