Look for a filename containing 0_990_39 or 0_990_40 . This is the final "upd" (update) before the Steam migration.

Since the 0.990 launch, the developers have continued to release significant "upd" patches under the 0.990 and 0.991 versioning: SpaceEngine - The Universe Simulator

If you've already purchased the game, here's how to update to version 0.9.9.0:

under the "Legacy" or "Old versions" section. Note that these older versions do not receive the new graphical or performance updates found in 0.990. Space Engine or finding community-made mods for the current version? Update 0.990.48.2028: High-Resolution Screenshot Tool

: The current version is 0.991 (Universe Generation Update), with ongoing beta updates as of April 2026. Free "Legacy" Alternatives

: For parts of the universe not yet mapped by science, the engine procedurally generates billions of galaxies and stars with realistic terrain.

Some modders prefer direct file manipulation. The free 0.990 version allows editing of shaders, terrain configs, and system generation scripts without Steam auto-updating and breaking mods.