Introduction
In the vast, procedurally generated universe of No Man’s Sky, base building represents a cornerstone of progression, creativity, and strategic resource management. Establishing a thriving base is more than just laying down walls; it’s about crafting a functional ecosystem where you can research new technologies, refine resources, and ultimately, shape your experience within the game. Central to this endeavor is the recruitment of skilled specialists who can oversee critical functions and unlock new possibilities. Among these specialists, the Scientist stands out as a crucial asset, unlocking advanced research and driving your technological advancement forward.
However, many players find themselves facing a frustrating hurdle: locating and recruiting these elusive Scientists. The game doesn’t explicitly point you toward them, leaving many to wander aimlessly through space stations and settlements, hoping to stumble upon the right candidate. This guide is designed to eliminate that confusion. It provides a clear and comprehensive explanation of where to find and hire Scientists for your No Man’s Sky base, ensuring you can quickly and efficiently unlock the full potential of your research endeavors. This guide will explain the importance of a scientist, locating potential candidates, the hiring process, and post hiring setup to allow you to get the most out of your base building experience.
Understanding the Role of the Scientist
The Scientist in No Man’s Sky isn’t just a decorative addition to your base. They are a vital member of your team, responsible for a range of critical tasks that directly impact your technological progress. Their primary function is to conduct research, unlocking blueprints for new technologies, base building components, and other valuable items. These blueprints are often essential for progressing through the game’s storylines, expanding your base capabilities, and acquiring advanced equipment.
Beyond research, Scientists also play a vital role in overseeing specific base functions. Depending on the specific tasks you assign them, they can contribute to resource processing, product manufacturing, and other operations, enhancing your base’s efficiency and output. They are, in essence, the brains behind your base’s technological operations.
Having a scientist is essential if you plan to have a functional base. Without a scientist, you won’t be able to research certain technologies or unlock important blueprints that will help you progress through the game.
Pre-Requisites for Hiring a Scientist
Before you embark on your quest to find a Scientist, it’s important to ensure you have the necessary infrastructure in place. There are a few key requirements that must be met before you can successfully recruit and employ a Scientist.
Firstly, you’ll need the “Science Terminal,” a specialized base building component that serves as the Scientist’s workstation. This terminal is the anchor for all of the scientist’s research activities and tasks. To acquire this blueprint, you’ll typically need to progress through the base building mission chain initiated by your base computer. Follow the instructions provided by the computer, and it will eventually lead you to unlock the Science Terminal blueprint.
Secondly, sufficient power is crucial. The Science Terminal, like most advanced base building components, requires a constant supply of energy to function properly. Ensure your base has adequate power generation capabilities through solar panels, electromagnetic generators, or other power sources. Without power, the Science Terminal will be inactive, and your Scientist will be unable to perform their duties.
Thirdly, ensure your base has available space for the Science Terminal and the Scientist themselves. While the terminal doesn’t require a massive amount of room, it still needs a dedicated space within your base structure. Additionally, consider the overall layout and organization of your base to ensure your Scientist has easy access to the terminal and other necessary resources.
Finally, ensure you have a base computer built somewhere. This is often the first step in establishing your base and will unlock most base building content.
Locating Potential Scientist Candidates
Now that you’ve established the necessary prerequisites, it’s time to begin your search for a suitable Scientist. Fortunately, No Man’s Sky provides a few reliable locations where you can find potential candidates.
One of the most common and effective places to find Scientists is within space stations. Space stations serve as hubs for trade, social interaction, and mission acquisition. Upon entering a space station, explore the various NPC areas, particularly the back rooms and side corridors where multiple aliens tend to congregate. These areas often house specialists with unique skills and professions, including Scientists. When looking for a scientist, you’ll want to scan the area for any aliens. If you find one, talk to them and see what their profession is. If it’s a scientist, you can continue with the next step in the hiring process. If they are not a scientist, you’ll have to keep looking until you find one. Space stations are the most consistent way to find a scientist.
Trading posts are another place to find potential candidates. These planetary outposts are smaller than space stations but still attract a diverse array of alien visitors. Employ the same approach as with space stations: scan the area for any alien NPCs and initiate conversations to inquire about their profession. Keep in mind that the availability of NPCs at trading posts can fluctuate, so you might need to visit multiple times or check different trading posts on various planets. Sometimes trading posts will have a group of aliens all standing around outside the building. This is usually where you will find scientists at trading posts.
Lastly, keep an eye on the mission boards located in space stations and planetary settlements. Occasionally, these mission boards will offer quests specifically related to recruiting specialists, including Scientists. Accepting and completing these missions can directly lead you to a qualified candidate, streamlining the hiring process. This is often the easiest way to acquire the scientist as you’re just following the quest prompts to reach the next step.
Identifying the Right Scientist
While finding an alien NPC is one step, you also want to ensure you are talking to the right alien species. One visual cue to look for is the alien’s name. Most of the time it will give their specialty in their name. For example, if you find an alien and their name is “Scientist Name,” then you know you have the right alien species.
Alternatively, you could keep an eye out for specific Alien Species. Different alien races specialize in different areas. As an example, Korvax Aliens are often the scientists because of their focus on technology. If you find a Korvax, there is a high chance that they can be hired to be a scientist at your base.
The Hiring Process
Once you’ve identified a potential Scientist candidate, the next step is to initiate the hiring process. This typically involves a conversation where you gauge their interest in joining your base and offer them employment.
Approach the potential Scientist and initiate a conversation. Carefully review the dialogue options presented, looking for cues that indicate their specialization and willingness to work. The dialogue options might be something along the lines of “Looking to hire someone” or “I have a job offer for you.” If they seem open to the idea, proceed with the job offer.
Clearly and concisely offer them employment at your base. Explain the nature of the work and the responsibilities involved. If they accept your offer, they will agree to join your team and relocate to your base. If they do not accept your offer, then they are not the scientist you are looking for and you’ll have to start the process over.
Once they agree to the job, you can tell them to head over to your base. Once they are at your base, you can assign them to their duties.
Post-Hiring: Setting Up Your Scientist
With your new Scientist recruited and ready to work, it’s time to set them up at your base and assign them their initial tasks. This involves placing the Science Terminal, assigning the Scientist to the terminal, and providing them with the necessary resources to begin their research.
First, place the Science Terminal in a suitable location within your base. Ensure the terminal is connected to a power source and easily accessible to the Scientist.
Next, interact with the Science Terminal and select the option to assign your Scientist to the terminal. This will establish them as the primary operator of the terminal and unlock their research capabilities.
Once assigned, your Scientist will typically have a series of initial missions and tasks for you to complete. These tasks often involve gathering specific resources, crafting certain items, or exploring nearby locations. Completing these tasks will help the Scientist settle in, build their expertise, and unlock new research opportunities.
After you get your scientist working at your base, they will offer research projects for you to complete. These are often blueprints for different things or quests to go out and find different items.
Troubleshooting
Even with a clear understanding of the hiring process, you might encounter some common issues along the way. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you overcome these challenges.
If you’re struggling to find any Scientists at all, double-check that you are searching in the correct systems and areas. Space stations and trading posts are the most reliable locations, but it might require traveling to multiple systems before you encounter a suitable candidate. As mentioned before, Korvax are the best alien species to find a scientist. So going to the Korvax systems is the best method.
If the Scientist you hired isn’t working as expected, ensure they are properly assigned to the Science Terminal and that the terminal has sufficient power. Check for any error messages or notifications that might indicate a problem. Sometimes, the Scientist might require specific resources or equipment to complete their tasks. So make sure you are stocked up with the correct materials.
While it’s rare, you might accidentally dismiss your Scientist, either intentionally or unintentionally. Unfortunately, there’s no guaranteed way to get them back. It’s best to be extra careful when interacting with your base staff to avoid accidentally dismissing them.
Advanced Tips
While the basic process of hiring a Scientist is relatively straightforward, there are a few advanced tips that can help you maximize their efficiency and optimize your research efforts.
While not explicitly displayed, Scientists might have hidden stats or specializations that influence their research speed or the types of blueprints they unlock. Experiment with different Scientists to find those who excel in specific areas.
To maximize your Scientist’s efficiency, ensure they have a steady supply of the resources they need for their research. Automate resource gathering and crafting processes to streamline the supply chain and prevent bottlenecks.
Coordination with other base staff is crucial for a well-functioning base. Delegate tasks and responsibilities to other specialists, such as the Armorer, Overseer, Farmer, and Technician, to create a cohesive and efficient workflow.
Conclusion
Scientists are indispensable assets in No Man’s Sky, driving technological progress, unlocking advanced blueprints, and enhancing the functionality of your base. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the galaxy, locate qualified candidates, and recruit them to your team. With a skilled Scientist at your side, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the vast universe, uncover its secrets, and build your dream base. Now go out there and build your dream base!
