Alpha 1 now available - December 4, 2013

[Jar]

If you're an Alpha tester, run Steam to update to the latest version.

Please let us know if you run into any problems.  Our preferred method for reporting a bug is the in-game feedback system. Click on the star icon in the top-right corner of the screen.  And remember, the ideal bug report is a step-by-step procedure for reproducing the error.  Most of the feedback we've received so far is exactly that, so thank you very much for helping us out.  

Here's a list of what's new and what's been fixed in this version:

New

• Improved time-step handling: simulation will automatically slow down if running too fast
• Hovering the Version Number now shows FPS and further stats
• Hovering the time-step now shows time-step and accuracy controls
• Ability to add randomly generated rocky planets & gas giants. Add > Planets > Random Planet
• Random bodies now have randomly generated names
• Ability to toggle visibility of clouds & atmosphere
• Added Rotational Period and Position Lock options to properties window
• Camera zooms out when adding body if needed
• Increased font size for improved readability
• Moderately improved the performance of trails

Fixed

• Incorrect shadow directions
• Outlines of bodies retain correct position when the window is resized
• Feedback window auto-wraps text
• Adding the star Wolf 359
• Earth’s moon’s surface no longer randomized

Check out the What's New Google Doc for a full version history.  

[Dan Dixon]

Thanks for submitting all the comments, feedback, and bug reports so far...

If you're bug hasn't been fixed yet, don't worry... we're working on it.

We plan to regularly release new alpha builds over the next few months as we work toward beta.

Thanks again so much for all of your help and support.

---

Let us know what you think of the new time step controls and handling... it's still a work in progress and doesn't yet work correctly in all simulations, but is a big improvement over Alpha 0 (the first release) and how the original Universe Sandbox handled time.

[valentin123]

this update is awesome

[Darvince]

Can RNG'd planets be terra planets therefore climate simulation?

[Kevin1994]

the stars are missing their solar flares went that will be put in?. 

 http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01653/solar_sun_1653022c.jpg

[valentin123]

Improved time-step handling: simulation will automatically slow down if running too fast
that stops the simulation for me i had to slow the time step to 1.00 per second(real time) so it doesnt goes red and stops the simulation,theres a topic i created about that

[smjjames]

• Increased font size for improved readability

Thank you! It's definetly better. There is a bit of an issue with the transparency in that it tends to be a bit too transparent depending on the background, but its not too bad.[/list]

[Dan Dixon]

• Increased font size for improved readability

Thank you! It's definetly better.

Can you share a screenshot... that shows text. Perhaps there's an issue with your display?
(or link to a screenshot you've already shared and I missed)

[Jicanfield11]

This update is great ! Good job !

[smjjames]

• Increased font size for improved readability

Thank you! It's definetly better.

Can you share a screenshot... that shows text. Perhaps there's an issue with your display?
(or link to a screenshot you've already shared and I missed)

It's more of an UI design issue in that the transparent (nonhighlighted) text and icons can be difficult to see on some backgrounds.

[wesly15]

this is the best space simulator

[michael hartman]

how do u get this new type of universe sandbox

[Darvince]

You patiently wait and grow a garden to feed yourself and your family.

[blotz]

in other words: you can't. signup closed weeks ago