I have never looked into the Mip Map function from the
nVidia DDS Plugin for Photoshop (which is what I usually use). In the documentation, there are a lot of filters that can be added to Mip Maps (making them darker.....lighter.....progressivly so; making them sharper....dull, etc.).
Would any of these filters do something that would help in visual appearance for the player? I don't know. The only thing I've ever concerned myself with when thinking about Mip Maps is whether to use them or not......Dial images don't need Mip Maps, ships and planes do. But, I've never ventured away from the default selection of parameters for Mip Maps.
I don't see a parameter for "sizing" the Mip Maps. But, maybe the lighter filter would create a brighter plane at greater distance? Sounds like further study and testing is needed?
Anyone have a little time on their hands???