iGame Radio

NASA has created a video game for you would-be network execs that let’s players design and build giant virtual ground and space communications systems to keep astronauts in orbit and scientists on the ground in touch.

In NetworKing, developed by the Information Technology Office at NASA’s Ames Research Center, players build three communications networks by setting up command stations around the world, then linking them to orbiting satellites and space telescopes. Players earn resources throughout the game as they acquire more satellite clients and perform scientific research.

Strategic use of clients and resources is key to expanding and gaining more resources. The more capacity you have, the more attractive you look to bigger clients, such as the International Space Station, Hubble Space Telescope and the Kepler mission. But watch out for disasters to happen, and be prepared with a plan to compensate.

Though the game is fictional, NASA says that NetworKing is based in factual subject matter, including NASA mission communication paths, satellite mission descriptions, and the three networks depicted (though the networks are exaggerated).

NetworKing is available for free as a downloadable game for both Windows and Mac, as well as playable in a browser. For browser-based play, you’ll need to install the Unity web-player plug-in.

Via Networkworld