One of the most valuable gameplay items in Ixion is the Space Probes. As the name suggests, they are deployable entities that you can send into space to find resources or other points of interest to progress in the game. So, if you are new to Ixion and do not know anything about using Probes, read the guide to its length.
How to make Space Probes in Ixion
Before understanding how to use a probe, let us learn how to make a probe. To make a Space Probe in Ixion, you must build a Probe Launcher from the construction tab. By default, it is not available to players, instead needs to be researched and unlocked for 40 Science Points.
After researching, you can construct the building on one of the sector's walls. Now, after erecting the Probe Launcher, it's time to build Space Probes. Select the Launcher building and click on the Construct button. A single probe takes three units of Polymers as raw material. You can also toggle the Auto Build button to make Probes automatically once the previous one is launched.
Related: How to improve stability in Ixion
How to launch Space Probes in Ixion
After building a Space probe, you can use it to locate resources or find points of interest related to the main storyline. To do this, click on the Planetary System Map View and choose the Probes icon. Now, select the Launch Probe button. After clicking, your mouse will now be equipped with a scanner that can scan the entire galaxy map for the prescribed things.
Move the mouse manually and locate potential resource areas or POIs using the estimation bar. For example, if you want to find the Fe or Iron ore, move the mouse to a location where the estimation bar peaks for the Iron column and changes into a green color.
Launch the Space Probe to that locality by using the LMB. For POIs, look for an area on the map that peaks the column with the exclamatory icon. After launching, the probe will detect the exact spot of ore location or possible quest area. Follow up by sending a Miner or Science ship, depending upon your search.
For more on Ixion, check out How to maintain hull integrity in Ixion or How to transfer resources in Ixion on Pro Game Guides.
