Formula used
Pv = Pmax × (ΣPi ÷ Pmax)E
Rmax = range modifier × √(P1 × P2)
x = 1 − d ÷ Rmax
S = (3 − 2x)x²
For relay routes, the calculator multiplies all hop strengths. A single failed hop breaks the complete route.
How to use this calculator
- Select a direct or relay calculation mode.
- Choose the destination and mission distance.
- Add every active antenna on each vessel.
- Enter relay powers and individual hop distances.
- Adjust DSN, range, system scale, and environment settings.
- Select a solver antenna and target signal percentage.
- Calculate, then inspect the weakest hop and recommendations.
Example data
| Mission | Distance | Suggested transmitter | Destination | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mun probe | 12 Mm | Communotron 16 | Level 3 DSN | Short-range direct link |
| Minmus relay | 47 Mm | HG-5 | Level 3 DSN | Local relay testing |
| Duna mission | 13.6 Gm | RA-15 | Level 3 DSN | Interplanetary link |
| Jool mission | 160 Gm | RA-100 | Level 3 DSN | Long-range planning |
Stock antenna reference
| Antenna | Power | Type | Exponent | Mass | Electric rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in Command Antenna | 5,000.0000 | Direct | 0.75 | 0.000 t | 0.00 EC/s |
| Communotron 16 | 500,000.0000 | Direct | 0.75 | 0.005 t | 6.00 EC/s |
| Communotron 16-S | 500,000.0000 | Direct | 0.75 | 0.015 t | 6.00 EC/s |
| HG-5 High Gain | 5,000,000.0000 | Relay | 0.75 | 0.070 t | 6.00 EC/s |
| DTS-M1 | 2.0000e+9 | Direct | 0.75 | 0.050 t | 12.00 EC/s |
| RA-2 | 2.0000e+9 | Relay | 0.75 | 0.150 t | 24.00 EC/s |
| HG-55 | 1.5000e+10 | Direct | 0.75 | 0.075 t | 20.00 EC/s |
| RA-15 | 1.5000e+10 | Relay | 0.75 | 0.300 t | 30.00 EC/s |
| Communotron 88-88 | 1.0000e+11 | Direct | 0.75 | 0.100 t | 20.00 EC/s |
| RA-100 | 1.0000e+11 | Relay | 0.75 | 0.650 t | 60.00 EC/s |
Preset values are editable. Check your installed KSP version and mods before mission-critical planning.
Frequently asked questions
What determines maximum CommNet range?
The geometric mean of both endpoint power ratings determines range. Difficulty modifiers can increase or reduce that result.
Do identical antennas add their full power?
Combinable antennas receive diminishing returns. Non-combinable antennas normally contribute only their strongest usable rating.
Can direct antennas relay another vessel?
A direct antenna can support its own craft. Another craft needs relay-capable hardware in the forwarding vessel.
Why does a relay route show zero strength?
One hop may exceed its range. Occlusion, blackout, missing electric power, or zero antenna power can also break communication.
How is total relay signal calculated?
The calculator multiplies every hop strength. A weak hop can greatly reduce the final route quality.
What does target signal percentage change?
It solves for more range than a barely connected link. Higher targets require significantly greater effective antenna power.
Can I use modded antenna values?
Yes. Select custom settings or overwrite any preset power, exponent, type, mass, and electric requirement.
Does the calculator model celestial-body geometry?
It uses a clear-line-of-sight switch rather than orbital geometry. Mark the route blocked when a body occludes the path.
Is PDF export a true file download?
The PDF button builds a downloadable report in your browser using the displayed calculation results.
Important planning notes
This calculator estimates KSP CommNet performance from entered values. Installed mods may alter antennas, ranges, or network behavior. Always verify critical missions inside your current save.
Planetary distances change continuously during orbital motion. Use conservative maximum separation values for reliable designs. Relay placement and body occlusion still require orbital planning.
Preset mass and electric values support comparisons only. Deployability, part orientation, and craft resources can affect operation. Test the complete communications chain before departure.