Introduction

The Distant Worlds 2 expedition is one of the biggest player-driven events in Elite Dangerous, requiring pilots to prepare their ships for deep-space exploration. This guide helps you choose the best ship and modules for the journey, focusing on self-sufficiency, survivability, and flexibility. Whether you’re a new explorer or a seasoned pilot, this guide will help you optimize your build for long-distance travel.

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Essential Exploration Modules

1. Frameshift Drive (FSD)

• The most important module for exploration.
• Always equip the best FSD you can afford.
• Engineer it to the highest level possible (Felicity Farseer is a good starting point).

2. Guardian FSD Booster (Recommended)

• Adds up to 10 light-years to your jump range.
• Requires Guardian tech unlock (takes ~2-3 hours).
• Not included in budget builds due to cost.

3. Fuel Scoop

• Essential for long journeys—lets you refuel from stars.
• Bigger scoops = faster refueling, reducing travel time.
• Get the largest scoop you can afford.

4. Auto Field Maintenance Unit (AFMU)

• Repairs ship modules but not hull or power plant.
• Canopy repairs are possible if damaged, but not if fully destroyed.
• Restockable via synthesis, so even a mid-size AFMU is enough.

5. Shields

• Some pilots fly shieldless for higher jump range, but this is risky.
• A small to mid-size shield protects against planetary landings and minor impacts.
• Not needed for combat, just safety.

6. Repair Limpets & Cargo Rack (Optional)

• Useful for repairing hull damage if carrying limpets.
• Requires a small cargo rack to store limpets.
• Limpets can be synthesized mid-journey.

7. Detailed Surface Scanner (DSS)

• Essential for mapping planets and finding points of interest (geysers, materials, etc.).
• Helps find biological and geological sites.

8. Mining Laser (Optional)

• Allows mining jumponium materials from asteroids if stranded.
• Useful in emergencies but not required.

9. Heat Sinks

• Essential for emergency cooling.
• Prevents damage from overheating near stars or in neutron star boosts.
• Minimal impact on jump range, so there’s no downside to carrying one.

10. Weapons & Chaff (Optional)

• Exploration ships are not combat ships, so weapons won’t help against NPCs.
• Might interact with space-based lifeforms for Codex discoveries.
• Chaff could be useful for alien encounters.

11. Cargo Rack (Optional)

• Only affects jump range when full.
• Useful for collecting materials or cargo during the journey.

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Ship Builds by Budget

Low Budget – Diamondback Explorer (~10M Cr)

• Pros: One of the best jump ranges, very affordable.
• Cons: Fewer optional slots than the Asp Explorer.
• Best For: New explorers looking for an affordable deep-space ship.

Mid Budget – Asp Explorer (~25M Cr)

• Pros: Great balance of jump range and module slots.
• Cons: Slightly worse range than Diamondback but much more flexible.
• Best For: Pilots who want a solid all-around exploration ship.

High Budget – Krait Phantom (~50M Cr)

• Pros: Best all-around exploration ship, more module slots than Asp.
• Cons: More expensive, slightly lower jump range than Anaconda.
• Best For: Players who want top-tier flexibility and self-sufficiency.

Alternative High-End – Anaconda (~100M+ Cr)

• Pros: Highest jump range when optimized.
• Cons: Large size = harder landings, expensive build.
• Best For: Players who want max jump range and don’t mind the handling.

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Ship Module Priorities

If you want to maximize jump range, here’s what to focus on:
✅ A-rated Frameshift Drive (FSD)
✅ Guardian FSD Booster
✅ D-rated other core modules (lightest weight)
✅ Low-power modules (reduce heat, power usage)
✅ Minimal weapons & utility slots

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Final Tips for Distant Worlds 2

• Take extra SRVs (Size 4 vehicle hangar recommended).
• Use module priority settings to save power.
• Disable unused modules to improve efficiency.
• Plan fuel stops carefully—scoopable stars are O, B, A, F, G, K, and M types.
• Always have heat sinks ready for emergencies.
• Keep a list of synthesis materials for refueling, repairing, and jumponium.

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Conclusion

Choosing the right exploration ship depends on your budget, playstyle, and experience. Whether you go with a Diamondback Explorer, Asp Explorer, or Krait Phantom, all these builds will successfully take you to Beagle Point and beyond.

Prepare well, fly safe, and let the stars be your guide! 🚀