The Flight Options Dialog allows users to configure various launch site and atmospheric parameters for a more accurate flight simulation. These settings directly influence the rocket’s performance and simulation results, ensuring that users can replicate realistic launch conditions.

SpaceCAD flight prediction dialog — SpaceCAD flight prediction

Key Fields and Features:

1. Elevation of Launch Site

Sets the altitude of the launch site above sea level.
Affects the air density and therefore the rocket’s aerodynamics and performance.
Example: Higher altitudes have lower air density, leading to less aerodynamic drag.

2. Length of Launch Rod

Defines the length of the launch rod used for the rocket.
A longer launch rod allows the rocket to build up more speed before becoming fully airborne.
Example: A rocket with a short rod might need a higher initial thrust to achieve the required lift-off speed.

3. Frictional Force of Launch Rod

Specifies the amount of friction between the rocket and the launch rod.
A higher frictional force requires the rocket to overcome more resistance, which can slow down its initial acceleration.
Example: For smooth launches, this value should typically be minimal unless simulating real-world conditions with more drag.

4. Minimum Launch Rod Escape Velocity

Defines the minimum velocity the rocket must reach before leaving the launch rod.
Ensures the rocket is moving fast enough to be stable when it leaves the rod.
Default: 14 m/s is typically used as the minimum velocity for stability, but this can vary based on rocket design.

5. Speed for Safe Landing

Sets the desired maximum landing speed to ensure a safe recovery.
A lower value indicates a gentler landing, which is especially important for delicate recovery systems.
Example: Typical values for safe recovery are around 4-6 m/s depending on parachute size and design.

6. Air Density Settings

Determine Air Density from Standard Atmosphere:
- Uses predefined air density values based on standard atmospheric conditions.
- Simplifies the simulation for users who don’t need precise environmental settings.
Calculate Air Density Based on These Values:
- Users can manually input the environmental conditions to simulate realistic air density.
- Launch Temperature: The ambient temperature at the launch site (in °C).
- Relative Humidity: The percentage of humidity in the air, which affects air density.
- Air Pressure: The atmospheric pressure at the launch site (in hPa). Higher pressure leads to denser air.
Example: Adjusting air density based on specific temperature, humidity, and pressure can provide a more accurate flight prediction for varying weather conditions.

Additional Controls:

Reset to Defaults: Resets all values in the dialog to their default settings.
OK: Applies the settings and closes the dialog, saving changes.
Cancel: Closes the dialog without saving any changes.

Example Workflow:

Setting Up for a High Altitude Launch:
- Adjust the Elevation of Launch Site to a higher value, such as 1,500 m.
- Increase the Minimum Launch Rod Escape Velocity to ensure the rocket builds enough speed to cope with thinner air.
- Fine-tune air density by adjusting the Launch Temperature and Air Pressure if necessary.
Simulating Real-World Launch Conditions:
- If you’re launching on a day with high humidity, set the Relative Humidity to match real conditions (e.g., 80%).
- Adjust the Air Pressure based on local weather data to simulate how it affects your rocket’s flight.

Diagram Explanation:

A diagram could be added to explain the relationship between air density, launch site elevation, and rocket performance, helping users visualize how these parameters affect flight simulation.

This documentation ensures that users understand the functionality of the Flight Options Dialog and how to configure it for realistic flight simulations.

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