Surviving in The Alters demands strategic base management and resource collection before a lethal solar flare engulfs your location. Resource gathering isn’t instantaneous—it requires scanning terrain, analyzing mineral deposits, and precise tool usage. This guide focuses on optimizing your scanning techniques to maximize efficiency.
Locating materials involves more than basic exploration. After identifying potential zones through reconnaissance, deploy specialized equipment to detect subsurface resources. Below, we break down effective strategies for operating the Scanner tool.
Deploying the Scanning Device: Step-by-Step

Navigate to suspected mineral-rich areas and activate the Scanner via your equipment menu. Position three or more detection probes to form a geometric shape—triangular configurations often yield optimal results. The system automatically initiates subsurface analysis upon completing the formation.
White scan indicators suggest the need for probe repositioning. Gradually adjust placements until crimson markers emerge, signaling proximity to resources. Always retrieve misplaced probes to conserve limited equipment. Successful alignment triggers an automatic mineral deposit icon and unlocks excavation protocols for establishing a Mining Outpost.