Kerbal Space Program

My current 'Game of the Month' is Kerbal Space Program.  This is a game that is basically in beta (maybe even alpha) status, but its been opened up to its users.  Its a fun little game - maybe not everyone's thing - but it has kept my attention for a while.  Geared towards the NASA space heads, you build a rocket with tons of different components, and head out into the Kerbal universe (somewhat modeled after our own solar system).  I highly recommend KSP if you were ever a fan of space flight as a kid, are old enough (and liked) Lunar Lander, or are just in a lull between video games :)

My current goal has been to get a Kerbal (creepy little green guys who pilot these rockets) landed on the Mun.  It has taken me the better part of the month (granted, not being able to play much) to get an intermediate understanding of the physics of space flight (again, modeled on our solar system), sustaining orbits, and initiating transfer orbits to other planets (in this case, the 'Mun' is like our Moon).

Last night, Jebediah Kerbal became the second Kerbal to land and walk on the Mun!  (The first was Bob Kerbal, RIP)

Liftoff of the Pegasus Mk 3 Munar Landing Vehicle!

First two fuel tanks peeled away

Low Kerbal orbit achieved

Transfer burn to the Mun complete, and Mun approach

Successful, if not bumpy, landing!

Mun walk

The 'Sea Of Mebane'!

Sadly, or not, ole Jeb didnt have enough fuel to make the return trip to Kerbal, and is currently stuck on the Mun until the Kerbal Space Program can attempt a rescue and recovery mission (read: until I come up with the time to build a space craft big enough to have a pilot and room to pick Jeb up!).  Not to worry!  Jeb has plenty of food and water!