Project Outpost
Synopsis
A realistic 3D mission simulator visualizing the Mars Direct architecture proposed by Dr. Robert Zubrin. Interactive, physics-based simulation of the complete mission lifecycle from Earth launch through Mars surface operations to Earth return.
Current Status: Design phase complete, implementing Prototype milestone (12 demo scenarios)
Free and open source software (GPL-compatible license) for Linux and Windows.
Presentation
Status
Currently implementing Prototype milestone (target: Q2 2026) - 12 demo scenarios demonstrating Mars Direct mission architecture.
Public release planned for late 2028. No downloads available yet.
Preview
Technical Stack
- Language: C++23
- Graphics: OpenGL 4.3+, custom rendering engine
- Physics: Bullet3 rigid body dynamics
- Features: Realistic orbital mechanics (VSOP ephemeris), ISRU fuel production, time acceleration (1x to 10,000x)
Comprehensive technical design complete: requirements analysis, architecture, and 13 detailed design documents covering all subsystems.
System Requirements
Minimum:
- Linux or Windows
- OpenGL 4.3+ compatible GPU (2014 or newer)
- 4 GB RAM
- Dual-core processor
Development machine:
- Linux Kernel 5.18+
- AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
- 32 GB RAM
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 (8GB)
- 5120×1440 display