The video “Ping Ping Ping - An Essential Stealth Guide Regarding Ping & Cross Section | SC Stealth Guide [4K]” examines the mechanics of passive and active detection in Star Citizen, demonstrating how cross-section values can be detected by radar through experiments with different ship signatures. It emphasizes the importance of positioning and angle in maintaining stealth, revealing that while cross-section can be passively detected, active detection is more sensitive to electromagnetic signatures.
The video titled “Ping Ping Ping - An Essential Stealth Guide Regarding Ping & Cross Section | SC Stealth Guide [4K]” explores the mechanics of passive and active detection in Star Citizen, particularly focusing on how cross-section values are detected by radar. The presenter sets up an experiment using two computers and accounts, one piloting a Saber Firebird and the other a Zeus. They clarify that the IR (Infrared) values displayed in-game are incorrect and will base their findings on a reliable external website. The goal is to determine whether cross-section can be passively detected without active radar pinging.
In the first scenario, the presenter minimizes the ship’s IR and EM (Electromagnetic) signatures by turning off various components. They then test the passive detection range of the Zeus ship, which has a radar capable of detecting cross-section values. By maneuvering the Zeus at different angles and distances from the Firebird, they find that the maximum detection range is around 3.5 km, suggesting that while cross-section can be passively detected, the effectiveness is influenced by the angle of approach and positioning of the ships.
Next, the presenter shifts focus to the question of what influences active detection. They switch to a nose-to-nose position with the Zeus and activate all ship components to increase EM signatures. The results show that they can ping the ship at a range of approximately 4.6 km, indicating that active detection relies on the highest signature present, although the exact relationship between EM and cross-section detection remains unclear. The presenter also notes that the angle of approach plays a significant role in detection capabilities.
Further testing reveals that when the EM signature is lowered, the active ping detection range also decreases, dropping to as low as 1 km. This indicates that while cross-section can be detected passively, active pinging is more sensitive to the highest signature present, which may not always correlate with the ship’s actual capabilities. The presenter emphasizes the importance of positioning and angle when attempting to maintain stealth in the game.
Finally, the video concludes with observations about the scanning mechanics in Star Citizen. The presenter experiments with adjusting the scanning angle but finds that effective scanning requires getting very close to the target ship. They highlight that stealth ships must maneuver carefully to avoid detection, as the active scanning and pinging mechanics are quite nuanced. Overall, the video serves as a detailed guide for players looking to enhance their stealth tactics in Star Citizen by understanding the intricacies of radar detection and ship signatures.