Automation and logistics
Planetary Ore Prospecting
A repeatable detector sweep helps find ore patches and layers before committing to a mining site.
WHERE & HOW TO FARM
Planetary Ore Prospecting
Open terrain on planets or moons where the world’s ore distribution places deposits. Surface contrast can be difficult to read under grass, snow, or uneven terrain.
Before you go
- Powered scouting ship with Ore Detector; a large-grid detector has greater range.
- Hand Drill or mining ship for checking deposits.
- GPS or another way to preserve signal locations.
Farming steps
- Power the detector and set it to maximum range before departure.
- Sweep open terrain at low altitude so you can follow HUD signals and safely inspect each find.
- Mark ore signals as they appear; approach one at a time and verify the material at the site.
- Look for a surface patch, but treat visual color as a clue rather than proof, especially beneath grass or snow.
- Use a Hand Drill to inspect the top layer, or a mining ship for a controlled approach to the deposit.
- If ore or a detector signal continues downward, descend in stages and rescan for additional layers.
- Save the locations that provide useful ore and return later with the appropriate cargo and refinery plan.
- Large-grid detectors reach up to 150 m; small-grid detectors reach up to 50 m. Set the range explicitly rather than assuming the default is enough.
- Avoid steep terrain when you can: an open sweep makes signals and landing sites easier to inspect.
Repeat, collect and use
Repeat the sweep over new terrain as supplies require. Saved signal locations can be revisited while the deposit still contains useful ore.
Common mistakes
- Flying too high or too quickly to inspect a signal: slow down and approach each HUD marker deliberately.
- Treating surface discoloration as a confirmed ore type: verify with detector and drill.
- Leaving a site after a shallow find: scan below it before deciding the signal is exhausted.
When to stop or switch
Stop scouting when you have marked enough productive sites for the next mining run, or switch to a different region if repeated scans yield no useful signals.
Sources & fact checks
What you can get here
Open a guide to find other locations and see what the item is used for.