by Nemesis420x
This is only my personal opinion, but I have to disagree with making that first orbital a science one.Having as many actions as possible at the start of the game is a priority. It allows you to make the most of your first few turns, which are essential to eventual victory, otherwise you risk being left behind before you even leave the gate.
Also, more economy early on gives you more freedom to expand into science and material systems, which will do a better job of maximizing resource production in all fields within the first few rounds.