I just download the Orbiter Sim off of the website and its a really good game.  But I have on large problem.  The shuttle won't launch.  I've tried everything.  All the buttons, read the manuals and even tried the quickstart lesson from the site.  Nothing!  Does anyone have an answer out there? ???  the site link is www.orbitersim.com

The shuttle is the most difficult of all spacecraft to get to orbit.  If you just got it start with something else to become accustomed to the controls.  And nobody's joystick throttle works.  If yours works consider yourself one of a small minority.

As I recall, launch was the same as every other craft - turn the engines up as high as they will go.  In the shuttle the SRB's ignite when main engines reach 95%.

The big problem is steering once you get the engines lit.

I think you will find much better recources, add ons, tutorials (a must) and a forum back at the Orbiter site.

I haven't checked this forum in a while.  I hope you like Orbiter.  If you get no other add ons, get the separate sound package or space can get very lonely.