> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.planetaryoceans.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.planetaryoceans.com/guide-v.-2.1/getting-started.md).

# Getting started

<figure><img src="/files/7Nk4AYysc3IJqtonRxMc" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

To add a planetary ocean to your level, follow these steps:

1. **Add BP\_PlanetaryOcean to your level**\
   Drag and drop the `BP_PlanetaryOcean` actor into your level. This actor controls the ocean’s quad tree and mesh generation settings, such as resolution, radius, and LOD (Level of Detail).
2. **If you don’t see the ocean** — you’re inside it. Since backface culling is enabled by default, there’s no visible geometry either. Disable `Nodes Backface Culling` in a `Quadtree` section of `BP_PlanetaryOcean` and press `F` to focus on the ocean sphere. You can then re-enable backface culling.
3. **Configure the ocean’s settings**\
   In `BP_PlanetaryOcean`, adjust the ocean’s mesh settings (radius, resolution, etc.) and quadtree settings to fit your needs. Hover over variables to see detailed explanations of what they do. Switch to wireframe mode to better understand how mesh generation behaves.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/INf0izSdN1MeR3lhY1wt" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

Explore the `Ocean Parameters` section of the BP that controls waves generation.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/ip8mzU73IL3Dl7HxuJaQ" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

1. **Additional notes**\
   Ocean material surface settings are defined in the `MI_PlanetOcean` material instance.

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[Scalability and Precision](/guide-v.-2.1/scalability-and-precision.md)
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