i play it a lot and there are some random crash&exits, at least on my end. they usually happen when you're about to visit a planet, but it's never the same planet twice.
if you didn't know: the R button can be used to go forward, lets you be a little more accurate with turning. also i've found it's easiest just to do all your battles with the precursor starship rather then try to send the little guys out and have them get blasted. and quasispace rules...