just a small update .. with small screenshots!
I created a new skybox for the second level:
I realised I can combine a (seemingly) infinite plane with a regular skybox
if the skybox has an alpha channel

also added a lens flare effect to the sun

there were of course a few bumps in the road:

MADRE DIOS
and I had to rewrite the sky rendering again:

also I found out I can use the console and screenshots to leave messages for myself to correct later on the maps:

until next time!