Unlocking the Secrets of Star Citizen 3.23: A Comprehensive Guide on How to Use Cruise Control

The vastness of the ‘Verse in Star Citizen is both exhilarating and daunting. Navigating through star systems, engaging in dogfights, and exploring unknown territories all demand precision and control. But what about those long, monotonous journeys across the galaxy? That’s where cruise control comes in. This handy feature allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery while your ship does the hard work. But how to use cruise control in Star Citizen 3.23 might seem a bit confusing at first. This guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from activation to customization, ensuring your interstellar travels are smooth and stress-free.

Activating Cruise Control

Before you can set your ship on autopilot, you need to activate cruise control. This is a simple process that involves a few keystrokes:

1. Press “C” on your keyboard. This will bring up the ship’s control panel.
2. Select the “Flight” tab. This tab contains all the essential controls for your ship.
3. Toggle the “Cruise Control” option. You’ll find this option within the “Flight” tab, typically near the top.

Once you’ve toggled cruise control, a small icon will appear on your HUD, indicating that the feature is active.

Setting Your Course

Now that cruise control is activated, you need to tell your ship where to go. There are two primary ways to set your course:

1. Manual Input:

• Press “M” on your keyboard to bring up the map. This will display the current location of your ship and surrounding star systems.
• Select your desired destination on the map. You can either click on a specific point or use the search bar to find a specific location.
• Click “Set Course” to initiate the journey.

2. Using Waypoints:

• Open the “Navigation” panel. This can be accessed through the “C” menu, similar to the “Flight” tab.
• Select the “Waypoints” tab. Here, you can create and manage your waypoints.
• Add a waypoint by clicking on the “Add Waypoint” button. This will open a menu where you can enter a specific location or select a point on the map.
• Once you’ve added your waypoints, you can activate the “Follow Waypoints” option. This will guide your ship through the pre-defined route.

Adjusting Cruise Control Settings

While cruise control is active, you can customize its behavior to suit your needs. Here are some key settings you can adjust:

1. Speed: You can adjust the cruise control speed using the “Speed” slider in the “Flight” tab. This lets you fine-tune your travel time, balancing speed with fuel efficiency.
2. Altitude: For those who prefer to fly at a specific altitude, you can adjust the cruise control altitude using the “Altitude” slider. This is particularly useful for avoiding hazards or navigating through crowded airspace.
3. Autopilot Mode: Star Citizen offers different autopilot modes that cater to specific scenarios. These include:

• “Standard” mode: This is the default mode that follows your set course with minimal adjustments.
• “Defensive” mode: This mode prioritizes safety, avoiding obstacles and potential threats.
• “Aggressive” mode: This mode allows for faster travel, potentially taking more risks.

Safely Engaging and Disengaging Cruise Control

It’s important to be aware of the nuances of engaging and disengaging cruise control:

1. Engaging Cruise Control: Always ensure your ship is in a safe location and at a stable speed before activating cruise control. Sudden activation can lead to unexpected maneuvers.
2. Disengaging Cruise Control: You can disengage cruise control at any time by simply toggling the “Cruise Control” option in the “Flight” tab. However, be prepared to take control of your ship immediately as the autopilot will disengage instantly.
3. Emergency Maneuvers: In case of an emergency, you can override cruise control by manually controlling your ship. This will immediately disengage the autopilot and give you full control of your ship.

Cruise Control and Combat

While cruise control is perfect for long-distance travel, it’s not ideal for combat situations. The autopilot is not designed for quick maneuvers or evading enemy fire. If you find yourself in a combat zone, it’s best to disengage cruise control and take manual control of your ship.

Exploring the Benefits of Cruise Control

Cruise control is a valuable tool for any Star Citizen pilot. It allows you to:

• Relax and enjoy the scenery: No longer do you have to constantly monitor your ship’s controls during long journeys. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ‘Verse.
• Focus on other tasks: While cruise control is active, you can engage in other activities, such as managing your inventory, interacting with other players, or simply taking a break.
• Improve fuel efficiency: Cruise control helps optimize your ship’s speed and trajectory, minimizing fuel consumption and extending your range.
• Navigate complex routes: Cruise control can handle complex routes with multiple waypoints, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Cruise Control Tips

Here are some advanced tips to enhance your cruise control experience:

• Use the “Auto-Land” feature: For landing at space stations or landing pads, you can use the “Auto-Land” feature. This will automatically guide your ship to the designated landing zone, simplifying the landing process.
• Customize your cruise control settings: Experiment with different speed, altitude, and autopilot mode settings to find what works best for you. Consider factors like your ship type, cargo load, and desired travel time.
• Use cruise control in conjunction with other features: Combine cruise control with other features like “Quantum Travel” and “Ship’s AI” to streamline your interstellar journeys.

A New Era of Space Travel

Mastering cruise control in Star Citizen 3.23 opens the door to a new era of space travel. No longer are you bound by the constraints of manual piloting. Now, you can explore the vastness of the ‘Verse with ease, efficiency, and a touch of relaxation. Embrace cruise control as your trusted companion, and embark on unforgettable journeys across the galaxy.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use cruise control during quantum travel?

A: No, cruise control is not active during quantum travel. You need to manually control your ship during the quantum jump.

Q: Is cruise control safe for all ship types?

A: While cruise control is generally safe for most ships, it’s important to note that specific ship types may have limitations or require different settings. Always refer to your ship’s manual for specific instructions.

Q: Can I use cruise control to land my ship?

A: While cruise control can help guide you towards a landing zone, it won’t automatically land your ship. You will still need to manually control your ship during the final landing phases.

Q: Can I use cruise control in combat?

A: It’s not recommended to use cruise control in combat situations. The autopilot is not designed for evading enemy fire or performing quick maneuvers.

Q: Can I customize the appearance of my cruise control HUD?

A: Currently, there is no option to customize the appearance of the cruise control HUD. However, you can adjust the HUD’s overall settings in the “Options” menu.