How can I help OpenRocket?
OpenRocket is an Open Source project, meaning that the source code is freely available and anybody can help make the program better. The program is mainly developed by Sampo Niskanen in his free time. Help is very much appreciated. You don't even need coding skills, as there are other things to do as well.
Below are a few suggestions of areas that would need help. If you'd like to participate, please contact me in order to coordinate the development efforts.
Java development
Below are a few ideas about what kind of input developers can provide or features that could be implemented. For more information see the feature roadmap in the distribution TODO-file.
- 3D visualization of the rocket during design and flight
- Printing of designs, simulation results, fin planforms etc
- Reading/writing RockSim and SpaceCad design files. (Reading RockSim files is already in progress.)
- Memory profiling and leakage reduction
- UI enhancements, for example zooming plots etc.
Aerodynamic computation methods
There is still work to be done in the aerodynamic computation methods of OpenRocket. At least the following items need help. I will gladly provide help in creating and even implementing the computational methods.
- Simulating rockets at supersonic velocities (drag coefficient and CG position).
- Support for external pods and tube fins
- CFD methods for simulation
Documentation tasks
Contributions to the OpenRocket User's guide are dearly needed. Below are examples of topics.
(Unfortunately the SourceForge wiki currently does not support public write access to the wiki. If you'd like to contribute, please contact me and I will provide you write access.)
- Getting started guide
- How to make staged and clustered designs
- Using mass/CG overrides for simulation accuracy
- Using simulations
- Effect of the simulation parameters
- Simulation method limitations
- Using simulation listeners (including examples)
Other
- Creating good and interesting example designs that demonstrate some OpenRocket features.
- Hosting a place to share rocket designs with other enthusiasts.
- Giving input and suggestions on how to make OpenRocket better.
