Command reference
Controls & shortcuts
Keep the galaxy, star systems, and command panels within easy reach.
Galaxy & system views
Move between the big picture and the worlds that make it yours.
| Key | Action | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| / | Find a star system | Search by name, then press Enter to focus the first match. |
| V | Toggle galaxy / system view | Open the selected star’s 3D system, or return to the galaxy. |
| Esc | Return to the galaxy | Available while viewing an individual star system. |
| F | Focus selection | Center a selected galaxy star or the system’s central star. |
| Home | Frame the active view | Fit the full sector or star system to the viewport. |
| +− | Zoom in / out | The same controls are available beside the map. |
| I | Toggle system details | Expand or collapse the selected-system inspector. |
Command & time
Keep the controls close and the decisions deliberate.
| Key | Action | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Space | Pause / resume sandbox ticks | Live game ticks are controlled by your server. |
| Alt1–7 | Switch command panels | Overview, Colonies, Fleets, Industry, Research, Diplomacy, Designer. |
| ←→ | Navigate command tabs | When the tab bar has focus, move to the adjacent panel. |
| HomeEnd | First / last command tab | Available when the command tab bar has keyboard focus. |
Mouse & touch
Select a star to inspect it. Double-click a star or choose System to open its 3D view. Drag to orbit, use the zoom controls to change scale, and select a planet for a closer look.