Q&A: RSI Constellation Mk V Centaurus

The Constellation series is one of the most recognizable ship lines in the 'verse. What sets the Mk V apart for players who are familiar with the Mk IV series?

The Constellation Mk V takes fan-favorite elements of the Mk IV and brings them in line with modern RSI style and design. Players will find increased cargo capacity, allowing for a wider range of payloads, including some of our largest current ground vehicles. The ship itself has grown in all dimensions to accommodate this and has received other quality-of-life changes, such as access to internal missile restocking, internal component placement, and access as well as better habitation and accommodation spaces to allow the crew space to relax.

The size of the Constellation Mk V Centaurus has grown compared to the Mk IV series. Is there any difference in handling, flight experience, or range?

Yes. The Mk V is tuned to a heavier class than the Mk IV, so it turns and accelerates more slowly, needing more room to reposition in a fight. In exchange, it is far more durable, carries a second S3 shield generator, and reaches a higher NAV speed.

Are there any changes to the weaponry and armor compared to the Mk IV series?

The pilot retains control of four S5 weapons as on the Mk IV, but the turrets have been upgraded to quad S3 mounts and are now remote controlled from the bridge by separate crew members.

The missile loadout has been consolidated from four racks of mixed sizes into two racks of matching size, for a total of 32 S2 missiles, with internal storage racks directly behind them so the crew can reload in flight (as on the Perseus).

Armor has also been reinforced: deflection is higher and overall armor integrity is up as well. However, it remains less heavily armored than dedicated warships, such as the Hammerhead and Perseus.

Has anything changed with bridge visibility or landing gear placement?

The bridge is all new though retains the spirit of the original, with the crew all sat in one room. The original ship’s struts have also been removed to provide a much improved view.

The landing gear mimics the original’s and the landed pose is clearly a nod back to its forebear, albeit with updated visual design.

The Constellation Mk V Centaurus comes with a snub fighter, the Skylark. Can you tell us more about it?

The Skylark is the dedicated snub fighter for the Mk V Centaurus. It features a prone pilot position to keep the ship as slim as possible while packing 3x S2 weapons, a bespoke pair of 5xS1 missile racks, and fully accessible components. The Skylark's inventory and weapon rack can be interacted with while docked within the Constellation Mk V as well as when landed separately.

Unusually for its class, it runs two shield generators rather than one, giving it considerably more staying power than a typical snub. That resilience and capacity come at a price though, as the Skylark sits at the heavier, less agile end of the snub bracket.

When will the Skylark become available as an individual pledge?

The RSI Skylark is planned to be introduced as a standalone ship at this year's Intergalactic Aerospace Expo (IAE).

With the recently introduced refuel, rearm, and repair feature for motherships, will the Constellation Mk V Centaurus be able to do the same for the Skylark?

No, the Constellation Mk V Centaurus does not have this functionality.

Is the snub docking compatible with the Kruger P-52 Merlin and P-72 Archimedes, or is it exclusive to the Skylark?

No, the Skylark is the only ship that can currently dock to the Mk V due to the radically different geometry between the two.

Are there any plans for more Constellation Mk V variants in the future?

Yes, we have plans to introduce further variants in the future, covering both familiar and new roles.

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