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Quick Start
A practical first-session sequence. The exact site layout can vary, but the underlying priorities are the same: cash, power, staffing, processing, and a science path.
1. Choose the program you want to run
Your starting funding path changes the amount of guaranteed money you receive and how strongly the game rewards risk-taking. See Funding Paths for exact values.
2. Establish an operational core
Your basic operational center and an important source of staff/research support.
Build a Solar Power Array and/or Backup Generator, then actually connect your consumers in the power-grid panel.
A Roll-off Telescope Enclosure or Radio Antenna starts producing meaningful observing capability.
Critical once your science output rises above the unprocessed baseline. Watch both grid power and temperature.
Unlocks useful site awareness and becomes important for several research paths.
Prevents small health losses from becoming shutdowns and makes technician staffing useful.
3. Hire for coverage, not just bonuses
Buildings may exist but underperform when required staff categories are uncovered. Early payroll is expensive, so meet the operational minimum first and add grant/research specialists after your core is stable.
4. Connect the grid
Generation does not magically power the entire map. Buildings form connected electrical components. Shorter, more efficient links waste less power, and a generator stranded in another component cannot rescue an overloaded science cluster.
5. Start a focused science program
Research Output produces Research Points. Technology unlocks stronger infrastructure and higher directive ranks; Research Directives turn general science into targeted discovery programs and mission bonuses.
6. Keep cash reserves
Construction cost is only the beginning. Payroll, yearly upkeep, repair needs, challenge penalties, and power expansion can make an apparently wealthy observatory cash-poor quickly.