This seems to be a better "version" of Freespace 2 that works from the off based on the open source engine. You need the full game first but it sounds like it will save a lot of hassle.
http://www.hard-light.net/
Anyone tried it ?
Yes, and it works a treat.
You're better off going for the GOG version of Freespace 2 afaik, as the Freespace 2 Open Installer was written to work with it.