As a 3rd party mapper, it's much more appealing to wait for an official FS dev space map, rip it apart, and see how things work.
I'd rather be implementing creative ideas and focusing on a cool new game mechanic than fixing skybox seams or trying to get meshes in-game.
When the mod's out, I'll buy 2142 for like 10$ and see what's up in the ground and space mappin' field.
Right now, starting work on a map would be like developing aftermarket car parts before the auto manufacturer even has a prototype done.
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