Inpired by the idea of the smallest (usefull) ship I can get to orbit, I did this super-cheap communications relay satellite.

2999$ (and you will recover the 200$ launch clamp cost after launch),
After a decent circularization it will have 1900m/s Delta-V, wich can easily set it in any orbit around Mun or Minmus, let alone Kerbin.

Usage: At first, do NOT touch anything, just launch!. If you let it alone (no SAS, no control, no nothing) launch angle and rocket properties take it after launch to an apoapsis of ~67km. At ~50km take control releasing the booster rocket and fairing. Take the core out of hybernation. Aprox. 45s before apoapsis, point to the horizon and set full throttle to circularise. If you point 10º above the horizon, you will lift your apoapsis; do it until it is around 72km.

If you have more tech available, change the core to a HEX. Same properties, but better SAS.


At 6180$, but requiring less techs and being more useful, my "Early CommSat":
https://steamhost.cn/steamcommunity_com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1610537087​