Kerbal Space Program Game Has Launched

It may be a long time before NASA launches a manned mission to Mars, but players of a new video game have the opportunity to build their own spacecraft and attempt a similar mission in a game that was released Monday.

Called Kerbal Space Program, the game has been in development since 2011, according to a report on engadget.com. The goal of the game is to build the best boosters, landers, and probes for the exploration of the mythical Kerbal solar system. The game uses relatively realistic physics to recreate the challenges of flying to and landing on a planet far from home. 

The game's website says that players must "build a space-worthy craft, capable of flying its crew out into space, without killing them. At your disposal is a collection of parts, which must be assembled to create a functional ship. Each part has its own function and will affect the way a ship flies (or doesn't). So strap yourself in, and get ready to try some Rocket Science!"

Apparently NASA and SpaceX's Elon Musk have given their stamp of approval to the game, according to engadget. So if you can't wait for that first launch to Mars, or are pining for a return to the Moon, this could be the game for you.

(Image from Kerbal YouTube video)

FMI: https://kerbalspaceprogram.com/en/