Is it possible to walk around in sand box mode like in free play, if so how?

By default sandbox mode is played without character, but you can move your view with WASD keys.

Or you can start a freeplay with peaceful mode (and maybe number of enemy bases set to low or nothing - I think it is ...

I just got the game and have a few questions.

Is it possible to play past when the fleet arrives in free play mode?
Is it possible to walk around in sand box mode like in free play, if so how?

if not could someone please point me to a mod which allows free play without it ever ending or the file ...