This is the first major industrial expansion. Several objectives share prerequisites that are easy to overlook: Construction Lab Level 3, Research Center Level 2 and an operational Logistics Hub. Build those foundations before spending on disconnected parts of the supply chain.
Your route through the chapter
From plan to operation
Optional checklist · saved in this browser only.
Upgrade the two enabling facilities
Bring the Construction Lab to Level 3 and the Research Center to Level 2. The lab unlocks the hub and heavy industry; the Research Center opens the advanced research and a second live research lane.
Build and connect the Logistics Hub
Use the surveyed northwest, highway-facing site. Connect the yellow access marker to the base’s own road network and finish construction. Both new factories depend on the operational hub.
Complete the satellite research chain
Finish Propulsion Engine III first: it needs Propulsion II, a Level 2 Research Center, the test facility and at least one firing result. Follow with Satellite Research I and II. The first satellite research awards $1.5 million.
Commission the Satellite Factory
Satellite Research I, Construction Lab Level 3 and the Logistics Hub unlock it. Allow for its substantial 18 MW and 18 staff requirement. Both research levels must still be complete to finish the chapter.
Commission the Propellant Plant
Finish Rocket Propellant II and Cooling & Liquid Systems Engineering I. With the Level 3 Construction Lab and Logistics Hub ready, the plant can join the supply chain.
Upgrade the Engine Testing Facility to Level 2
Finish the facility upgrade. It temporarily suspends hot-fire activity. Recheck the mission panel: Logistics Hub, Satellite Research I and II, Satellite Factory, Propellant Plant and the Level 2 test facility should all be complete.
When progress stops
Common blockers
The factories remain unavailable
Check the lab’s Level 3 upgrade and completion of the Logistics Hub. A queued or disconnected hub does not satisfy an operational prerequisite.
The Propellant Plant is still locked
The plant needs two research branches: Rocket Propellant II and Cooling & Liquid Systems Engineering I.
I cannot start Satellite Research I
Follow the chain backward to Propulsion Engine III. That topic needs a Level 2 Research Center and at least one completed engine firing.
Why are there six walkthrough steps for five objectives?
The first step groups enabling upgrades. It is preparation for the five mission objectives, not an extra objective invented by the guide.