Feature Proposal Physical Sun and Advanced Solar Energy System

Hello Keen Team,

I would like to propose an improvement for Space Engineers 2: introducing a physical sun that replaces the current skybox-based light source, combined with an advanced solar energy mechanic inspired by Stargate Universe.

Feature description:

Instead of a fixed, static light within the skybox, the sun would become a real celestial object — a physical star emitting light, heat, and radiation. Players could interact with it more realistically, both visually and technically.

Key points:

The sun would have a real position, trajectory, and intensity, creating dynamic shadows, true eclipses, and realistic illumination.

It could become a direct energy source for specially designed ships — for example, vessels equipped with high-grade solar collectors or heat shielding could approach the star to recharge their power systems, similar to how the Destiny from Stargate Universe refueled inside stars.

This would introduce new engineering challenges, such as managing thermal limits, radiation, and hull durability near high energy zones.

The system would open creative opportunities for modders (custom stars, binary systems, variable radiation, etc.).

For performance reasons, simplified lighting could remain an option on low-end systems or dedicated servers.

Why this would be great for SE2:

A physical and interactive sun would deepen immersion and expand gameplay possibilities in exploration, survival, and ship design. It blends science fiction realism with engineering creativity — exactly what makes Space Engineers unique.

Thank you for considering this idea!

Kind regards,

Alex