Talks
Speakers
Events
Topics
Sign in
Home
Talks
Speakers
Events
Topics
Leaderboard
Use
Analytics
Sign in
Suggest modification to this talk
Title
Description
Orbital Rocket Guidance with Ruby by Nate Berkopec Using the popular space simulator Kerbal Space Program and some remote procedure calls, we're going to use Ruby to launch (simulated) rockets into space! We'll discuss the history of computing in the space program, real-life algorithms for getting rockets into orbit like the Space Shuttle's Powered Explicit Guidance Ascent System, and the software architecture of historic space computers like the Apollo Guidance Computer. Finally, we'll build our own orbital rocket, controlled by a Ruby program that emulates space computers of the past.
Date
Summarized using AI?
If this talk's summary was generated by AI, please check this box. A "Summarized using AI" badge will be displayed in the summary tab to indicate that the summary was generated using AI.
Show "Summarized using AI" badge on summary page
Summary
Markdown supported
In the video titled "Orbital Rocket Guidance with Ruby," Nate Berkopec discusses how to program a simulated spacecraft computer using the Ruby programming language within the context of Kerbal Space Program, a physics-based space simulation game. The session, held at RubyConf 2017, explores both historical and modern approaches to spacecraft guidance, ultimately demonstrating how to launch a Saturn V rocket into orbit. Key points discussed in the video include: - **Introduction of the Project:** Nate introduces himself as the Mission Control Director for the Ruby Space Program, highlighting the emphasis on programming a space computer using Ruby despite its lack of aerospace relevance. - **Using Kerbal Space Program (KSP):** The session demonstrates how KSP serves as a robust testing environment, leveraging a mod called Realism Overhaul that replicates the actual solar system. The use of the KRPC library allows Ruby scripts to interact with the KSP API, enabling control over the spacecraft. - **Key Requirements for Space Computers:** Berkopec outlines three critical features that space computers must satisfy: real-time operation, high reliability with redundancy, and simplicity in design. - **Historical Context:** He touches on the evolution of space computing, referencing the Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC) and its innovative methods, such as multitasking and redundancy for reliability. - **Programming with Ruby:** Nate provides examples of how to structure Ruby programs to handle the essential tasks necessary for launching a rocket, including managing fuel levels and staging sequences. - **Focus on Guidance Systems:** The video emphasizes the implementation of guidance systems for trajectory optimization during launch, detailing the processes behind ignition sequences, thrust monitoring, and gravity turns—a technique used by the Saturn V to transition from atmospheric flight to orbital insertion. - **Takeaways from the Session:** The demonstration culminates in launching the simulated Saturn V rocket, showcasing how even simple programming can achieve complex results akin to historical space missions. Berkopec emphasizes that while the focus was on coding aspects, the principles explored reflect genuine challenges faced by early space missions. Overall, Berkopec advocates for the use of KSP as a fun and engaging tool for learning programming concepts, especially in emulating the past achievements in space exploration. Participants are encouraged to delve further into programming and space simulation using the concepts introduced throughout the session.
Suggest modifications
Cancel
