Autopilot

From Starport: Galactic Empires

Autopilot is computer-controlled navigation between systems or inside a particular system.

When a GoTo order is issued, either from the galaxy map, or from the GoTo quick-button on the console display, your ship goes into autopilot control mode. While in autopilot control mode your ship will attempt to guide itself to its destination. The ship can be taken out of autopilot mode by pressing either of the steering keys (left arrow or right arrow), or by clicking the GoTo button off. The autopilot can be directly invoked by using the /goto commmand; see navigation commands.

Your ship's navigational computers have been programmed with the layout of the galaxy and so can set an autopilot course from any star system in the galaxy to any other. Detailed information about a star system is only available if you have visited that star system personally, however.

Limitations of the Autopilot

The autopilot has only basic plotting and directional intelligence. It will not attempt to go around stars, planets, and other objects. If your ship becomes stuck in the gravity well of a large star, the autopilot may not be able to get you out. In addition, the autopilot does not always adjust in-flight for changes; it may completely stop, reorient, and continue. This makes it unsuitable for combat!