How to Make Money Exploring in Elite Dangerous

Elite Dangerous is a popular space exploration and trading game that offers players a vast universe to explore and conquer. One of the exciting aspects of the game is the ability to make money through various activities, including exploration. In this article, we will delve into the world of making money while exploring in Elite Dangerous and provide you with valuable tips and strategies to optimize your earnings.

 

 

Elite Dangerous in 2020

 

 

1. Understanding Exploration in Elite Dangerous:

 

Before we dive into the money-making aspects, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of exploration in Elite Dangerous.

 

Exploration involves venturing into uncharted territories, scanning celestial bodies, and gathering valuable data.

 

The data you collect can be sold for profit, making exploration a lucrative career choice in the game.

 

2. Equipping Your Ship for Exploration:

 

To maximize your earnings as an explorer, you need to outfit your ship with the right equipment. Here are a few essential components to consider:

 

a. Advanced Discovery Scanner:

 

This scanner allows you to detect and scan distant stellar bodies, revealing valuable data about their composition and potential resources.

 

 

b. Detailed Surface Scanner:

 

Equipping your ship with a detailed surface scanner enables you to perform detailed scans on planets, moons, and other astronomical bodies. This reveals valuable information and increases the value of the data you gather.

 

 

c. Fuel Scoop:

 

Exploring vast distances requires fuel. A fuel scoop allows you to gather fuel from stars, eliminating the need to dock at stations frequently.

 

 

d. Advanced Thrusters and Frame Shift Drive:

 

Upgrading your ship's thrusters and frame shift drive enhances its maneuverability and jump range, enabling you to reach distant systems quickly.

 

 

3. Identifying Profitable Exploration Targets:

 

Not all systems are created equal when it comes to exploration. Some systems offer more valuable discoveries, leading to higher profits. Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting your exploration targets:

 

 

a. Stellar Phenomena:

 

Look for systems with rare or unusual stellar phenomena, such as black holes, neutron stars, and white dwarfs. The data obtained from scanning these phenomena can be exceptionally lucrative.

 

 

b. Earth-Like Worlds:

 

Planets that resemble Earth in terms of atmosphere and composition are highly sought after. Scanning and selling data from these planets can be extremely profitable.

 

 

c. Unexplored Systems:

 

Prioritize systems that have not been explored by other players. The first discovery of a celestial body grants a substantial bonus, increasing your earnings significantly.

 

 

Elite Dangerous

 

 

4. Efficient Exploration Techniques:

 

Exploration can be time-consuming, so it's crucial to adopt efficient techniques to maximize your profits. Here are a few tips to help you explore more efficiently:

 

a. Plotting Efficient Routes:

 

Use the galaxy map to plot your route, considering systems with a high number of unexplored celestial bodies in close proximity. This minimizes travel time between scanning targets.

 

 

b. Honking and Scooping:

 

As you enter a new system, use the advanced discovery scanner to perform a "honk." This reveals all the celestial bodies in the system. After the honk, scoop fuel from the star before moving on to scan individual bodies.

 

 

c. Planetary Mapping:

 

When scanning planets, focus on valuable geological and biological features. Mapping these features increases the value of the data you collect.

 

5. Selling Your Exploration Data:

 

Once you've gathered a significant amount of exploration data, it's time to cash in.

 

Locate a station with Universal Cartographics and sell your data to earn substantial profits.

 

Keep in mind that selling data far away from where it was collected often yields higher rewards.

 

 

Elite Dangerous Exploration Guide

 

 

Exploring the vastness of space in Elite Dangerous not only offers an exhilarating experience but also provides an opportunity to make a substantial income.

 

By equipping your ship with the right tools, targeting profitable systems, and adopting efficient exploration techniques, you can optimize your earnings and thrive as an explorer in the game.

 

So, set your course, scan the stars, and make your fortune in the ever-expanding universe of Elite Dangerous.