In the vast and dynamic universe of Avorion, players are constantly seeking efficient ways to expand their galactic presence and resource management. One of the most rewarding discoveries in the game is a claimable asteroid an unoccupied celestial object that can be turned into a valuable mining station, factory, or trade hub. However, finding claimable asteroids in Avorion isn’t always straightforward. It requires a mix of strategy, patience, and understanding of the game’s procedural generation mechanics. For players looking to maximize their empire’s potential, mastering the art of locating these asteroids is essential.
What Are Claimable Asteroids?
Claimable asteroids in Avorion are large, unowned asteroids that players can take control of using a Claiming License. Once claimed, these asteroids become assets that can serve multiple roles depending on your needs such as mining stations, resource depots, or production centers. Unlike standard asteroids, claimable ones are significantly larger in size and often contain rich material deposits like iron, titanium, or even more valuable ores further toward the galactic core.
Why Claim Asteroids?
Claiming an asteroid comes with several strategic advantages:
- Establish passive income through mining stations.
- Gain territory influence and expand factional presence.
- Use them as bases for production or resource storage.
- Improve logistics for fleets operating in remote sectors.
These benefits make claimed asteroids not only useful but sometimes critical to long-term success in the game.
How to Identify Claimable Asteroids
Claimable asteroids are not labeled or highlighted by default. This makes spotting them more of a visual task. Typically, they are:
- Much larger than surrounding asteroids in the sector.
- Often appear in resource-rich zones or asteroid fields.
- Can be hovered over to reveal the Claim prompt when in close proximity.
To help distinguish claimable asteroids, players can upgrade their ship sensors or use drones for closer inspection. The most reliable method is to fly near the asteroid and hover the reticle over it. If it can be claimed, the game will prompt the option automatically.
Best Sectors to Search for Claimable Asteroids
While technically any sector might contain a claimable asteroid, certain regions have better odds. Understanding where to look can greatly speed up your search.
1. Resource-Rich Sectors
These are typically asteroid-heavy sectors near mining stations or unexplored systems. They often generate larger asteroid fields, increasing the chance of finding claimable ones.
2. Border Zones Between Factions
Zones not controlled by any faction are ideal hunting grounds. These areas are often neutral or lawless, leading to a higher chance of unclaimed space bodies.
3. Procedural Nebulae Zones
While more difficult to navigate due to reduced visibility, nebulae sometimes hide valuable asteroids that are missed by NPC factions or overlooked by other players in multiplayer sessions.
Tools and Strategies to Improve Your Search
Finding claimable asteroids becomes easier with the right tools and preparation. Here are strategies and equipment to consider:
Upgrade Your Radar and Scanners
Equipping your ship with long-range scanners or upgraded radar systems increases your visibility of asteroid clusters and helps you identify high-density areas more quickly. The more you can scan, the less time you waste flying aimlessly.
Use Exploration Drones
Drones can fly into areas you haven’t explored yet, helping you assess asteroid fields without exposing your main ship. This is especially useful in dangerous or pirate-infested sectors.
Set up a Patrol Route
Rather than visiting random sectors, establish a logical route through unclaimed zones, resource belts, and low-traffic systems. Visiting 510 such sectors in a loop will increase your chance of discovering claimable asteroids without backtracking.
Claiming Process and Required Items
Once you’ve identified a claimable asteroid, you will need a Claiming License to take control of it. Here’s how the process typically works:
- Fly your ship close to the asteroid.
- Hover your mouse or reticle over the asteroid until the Claim option appears.
- Use a Claiming License from your inventory to claim it.
- The asteroid is now yours to convert or assign a role.
Claiming Licenses can be purchased at Equipment Docks or Trading Posts, usually for a reasonable amount of credits. It’s a good idea to keep a few in your cargo hold when exploring.
Converting Asteroids into Stations
After claiming an asteroid, you’re given the option to convert it into a station. This requires some resources and planning, but it’s one of the most efficient ways to generate income and expand control.
Types of Conversions:
- Mining Stations: Automatically harvest ore and refine it over time.
- Trade Depots: Serve as hubs for resource exchange and merchant activity.
- Production Facilities: Create advanced materials or modules.
The exact type of station depends on your goals and the local economy. Mining stations are usually the easiest to set up, especially if the asteroid contains valuable ore types like Naonite or Trinium.
Defending Your Claimed Asteroids
Once claimed, asteroids can become targets, especially in contested or pirate-controlled space. You’ll want to ensure their protection by:
- Assigning armed escorts or station defense modules.
- Upgrading the station with shield generators and hull reinforcements.
- Positioning them near allied faction space for quicker reinforcements.
Neglecting defense can result in raiders stealing resources or outright destroying your asset.
Claimable Asteroids in Multiplayer Servers
In multiplayer settings, claimable asteroids can be hot commodities. Competition is higher, and discovering one before others can give you a valuable edge. To succeed:
- Use private sectors or warp directly into unscanned regions.
- Coordinate with your faction or allies to search in teams.
- Be discreet don’t broadcast discoveries unless you’ve already secured them.
Securing multiple claimable asteroids early in a server’s life can establish dominance and consistent resources for your team.
Finding claimable asteroids in Avorion is more than a side activity it’s a strategic step toward empire building, economic dominance, and sustainable progression. Whether you’re flying solo or managing a fleet, mastering the process of locating, claiming, and developing these valuable space rocks will give you long-term advantages. Equip the right tools, chart unexplored regions, and be ready with Claiming Licenses when the opportunity presents itself. With patience and smart navigation, you’ll uncover hidden treasures that others overlook and turn them into thriving outposts in your galactic journey.