The first engine test is a small supply chain in action. Research defines the engine, the factory supplies hardware, the tanks supply propellant and the test facility turns those inputs into data. Missing any one of them stops the sequence.
Your route through the chapter
From plan to operation
Optional checklist · saved in this browser only.
Commission the Component Factory
Build the factory with enough power, staff and road access to operate. It produces one precision component per operating minute. You need stock before the first firing can begin.
Complete Propulsion Engine II
If you researched this in Chapter 2, the requirement is already satisfied. It follows Propulsion Engine I and awards a further $1 million grant.
Upgrade two Propellant Tanks to Level 2
Upgrade each of the two tanks separately and allow the projects to complete. Two Level 1 tanks do not meet this objective.
Commission the Engine Testing Facility
Upgrade the Construction Lab to Level 2. The test facility also needs Propulsion Engine II, the Component Factory and two tanks. Budget for its 10 MW and ten staff.
Complete the first qualification firing
Have at least five units of propellant and one precision component available. Let the firing complete so test data is recorded. That result will also be needed for Propulsion Engine III in Chapter 4.
When progress stops
Common blockers
The test facility is locked after research
Check Construction Lab Level 2, the Component Factory, both tanks and the current chapter. Research is only one prerequisite.
The range will not fire
Check for an active facility upgrade, then inspect propellant and component stock. Each firing uses five propellant and one component.
I have tanks, but the upgrade objective is incomplete
Inspect the level of both tanks. The chapter requires two completed Level 2 upgrades, not one upgraded tank and one new tank.