Scanning & Cataloging Discoveries

Scanning & Cataloging Discoveries

The universe of No Man's Sky is teeming with unique flora, fauna, and minerals, and the act of scanning and cataloging these discoveries is a core gameplay loop. By thoroughly scanning and uploading your findings, you contribute to the galactic database, earn Nanites, and gain valuable knowledge about the planets you visit. Mastering the scanner is key to exploration and understanding alien worlds.

Your Multi-Tool is equipped with a scanner that can be used to identify and gather information about nearly everything you encounter. Pointing your scanner at a plant, creature, or mineral will reveal its name and basic properties. Holding the scan button will initiate a more detailed analysis, which, upon completion, adds the discovery to your Catalogue. Uploading these discoveries from your Catalogue grants you Nanites and contributes to your overall exploration progress.

• Scanner Functionality: Aim your Multi-Tool's scanner at objects to identify them.
• Detailed Scan: Hold the scan button to perform a full analysis, revealing more information.
• Catalogue: All discovered flora, fauna, and minerals are recorded in your Catalogue.
• Uploading Discoveries: Access your Catalogue from the pause menu to upload your findings.
• Nanite Rewards: Uploading discoveries earns you Nanites, a currency used for purchasing upgrades and blueprints.

Different planets will have unique species and geological formations. Some discoveries are rarer than others, and fully cataloging a planet's inhabitants can yield sificant Nanite bonuses. Pay attention to the discovery progress for each planet in your Catalogue.

Scanning & Cataloging Process:

Upgrading your scanner with modules that increase scan range and speed will make the cataloging process much more efficient, especially on planets with a high density of unique lifeforms or geological features.