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[[File:Elite Dangerous Trailblazers Key Art.jpg|thumb|300px|ED Trailblazers]]
 
'''System Colonisation''' lets you claim and develop billions of [[Star system|star systems]] with free-form expansion in the [[galaxy]].<ref name=":1">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/en-US/news/system-colonisation-guide System Colonisation Guide] - Elite Dangerous News - 28 Feburary 2025</ref> You become the [[System Architect]] when the initial colonisation stages are complete. This allows you to manage colonial development. It's an open process that can be performed by a solo [[commander]], [[Squadrons|squadron]] or [[Player Minor Faction|faction]].<ref name=":18">[https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=960279442800789 System Colonisation] - Elite Dangerous, Facebook Page - 30 October 2024</ref>
 
Colonisation has rapidly increased the number of [[human]] inhabited [[Star Systems|systems]] from the [[Core Systems|The Bubble]] across the [[Inner Orion Spur]].<ref name=":18" /> There is an ongoing effort to colonize the [[Colonia Region]]. The playable beta version launched on 26 February 2025,<ref name=":7" /> and exited beta to full release on 11 November 2025.<ref name=":14">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/update-notes/4-2-2-0 Elite Dangerous: Dodec Update v4.2.2.0] - Elite: Dangerous website - 11 November 2025</ref> By February 2026: 101,862 systems have been colonized, with 175,973 surface facilities, and 307,014 space facilities.<ref name=":17">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nf2wuh_09eo Elite Dangerous | Developer Log - 16 February 2026] - YouTube</ref>
 
== Colonisation history ==
 
=== Precursor ===
Long before the player-led system colonization was the migration to [[Jaques Station]] in the [[Colonia Region]] in 3302 (2016). This set the precedent for distant hub-building. The [[Colonia Council]] was founded on 9 Sep 3302. It later ran expansion initiatives to settle surrounding systems and establish remote human hubs outside the [[Core Systems]].
 
The [[The Dukes of Mikunn|Mercs of Mikunn]] were the first player group in ED history to have a player-built colony and station. They pioneered how systems change control, expand and collapse. Their relentless BGS manipulation was rewarded by Fdev with a [[Community Goals|Community Goal]]. This enabled them to colonize the Sefrys system and build their own starport headquarters, Mercenary's Respite in 3301 (2015).
 
In May 3303, [[Canonn Interstellar Research Group|Canonn Interestellar Research Group]] coordinated a major community goal to construct the first player-group [[megaship]]; [[The Gnosis]]. It was completed in under 3 days with rougly 35 million tonnes of goods delivered by over 9,400 commanders.
 
=== Player-led colonisation ===
The [[Anti-Xeno Initiative]] held a central role in organizing human resistance, orchestrating system blockades, and coordinating a community-wide defense effort against the [[Thargoid|Thargoids]] during the [[Second Thargoid War]] (3303 - 3310). Technical lead of [[Frontier Developments|Frontier]] Roger Bennett said on 16 Feb 2026: ''"So, humanity had just survived a devastating war that struck to the core of the bubble. And the natural narrative consequence of that is we stretch out into the stars and try to gain new footholds and new territories to make humanity more robust than ever."''<ref name=":172">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nf2wuh_09eo Elite Dangerous | Developer Log - 16 February 2026] - YouTube</ref> ''"we wanted to put the fate of the galaxy back in the hands of the players. This is a non-authored, it's a non-scripted update. It is all about player agency. It's about giving a selection of tools and letting players go out and make the galaxy their own."''<ref name=":172" />
 
[[Frontier Developments|Fdev]] launched a live beta for player-led system colonisation on 26 February 3311 (2025) alongside the Trailblazers update.<ref>[https://x.com/EliteDangerous/status/1894403651596124255 "The System Colonisation Beta begins February 26 with the Trailblazers update!"] - @EliteDangerous - 25 Feb 2025 - X</ref> This formalized system colonization with the ability to deploy a [[Nav Beacon|Colonisation Beacon]] and construct new orbital and planetary facilities.
 
[[Frontier Developments|Fdev]] puts the fate of the galaxy in the hands of the players.<ref name=":173">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nf2wuh_09eo Elite Dangerous | Developer Log - 16 February 2026] - YouTube</ref> This is a non-authored, non scripted update.<ref name=":173" /> It's all about player agency, giving a certain selection of tools and players go out and make the galaxy their own.<ref name=":173" />
 
=== Trailblazer fleet ===
On 19 March 3311 (2025), the [[Brewer Corporation]] deployed the trailblazers fleet to strategic locations on the edge of the [[Core Systems]]. These were 'colonisation support hubs' with a bespoke trade market for colonisation materials and goods.<ref name=":92">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/news/galnet/trailblazer-fleet-deployed-support-colonisation-initiatives Trailblazer Fleet Deployed to Support Colonisation Initiatives] - Galnet - Elite Dangerous - 19 March 2025</ref>
 
On 4 November 3311 the Brewer Corporation announced plans to withdraw the Trailblazer megaship fleet, citing the self-sufficiency of newly established colonies.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/6908c55511a8b11bd201a0e3 Trailblazer Fleet To Be Withdrawn - 4 November 3311] - Galnet News - 4 November 2025</ref> The withdrawal was completed on 11 November 3311.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/69131dd29d7376a392048981 Trailblazer Fleet Withdrawn, Dodec Starport Revealed - 11 November 3311] - Galnet News - 11 November 2025</ref> The new [[Dodec]] starport and system colonisation launched fully with the v4.2.2.0 Dodec Update of [[Elite Dangerous: Odyssey|''ED: Odyssey'']] on 11 Nov 2025.<ref name=":142">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/update-notes/4-2-2-0 Elite Dangerous: Dodec Update v4.2.2.0] - Elite: Dangerous website - 11 November 2025</ref> Since that update the Trailblazer megaships are no longer present in the game. Their original locations are listed below for historical info.
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" border="1"
|+
!Ship Name
!Star System
|-
|Trailblazer Dream
|HIP 90578
|-
|Trailblazer Song
|Orgen
|-
|Trailblazer Wish
|Bletii
|-
|Trailblazer Star
|34 Omicron Cephei
|-
|Trailblazer Promise
|Klikis
|-
|Trailblazer Faith
|Ngobe
|-
|Trailblazer Echo
|Minerva
|}


[[File:Elite Dangerous Trailblazers Key Art.jpg|thumb|300px|ED Trailblazers]]
=== Beyond the Bubble ===
[[File:System Colonisation Map Jan 2026 ED.jpg|thumb|System Colonisation Map Jan 3312 (2026)]]After the uninhabited portion of the Bubble got filled in we saw expeditions head out towards the center of the galaxy and along the [[Orion-Cygnus Arm]] as people built galactic highways to their destinations of choice.<ref name=":174">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nf2wuh_09eo Elite Dangerous | Developer Log - 16 February 2026] - YouTube</ref> The second part of that was small bubbles started to appear where people were building high density systems to create their own little inhabited bubble which is largely for production of resources so that they can continue their journey even further.<ref name=":174" /> On 16 Feb 3312 (2026) players made 101,862 colonised systems, 307,014 facilities built in space, and 175,973 facilities built on planet surfaces.<ref name=":174" /> This has changed the galaxy forever and made the galaxy their own.<ref name=":174" />
 
In the beginning of player-led system colonization, many initial colonization highways went south to the Thargoid, Guardian and permit locked nebulae.<ref name=":02">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G24bBu9JQoI Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-08-27 - Going North] - CMDR Precambrian Mollusc - YouTube</ref> Others went north. This required inter-faction cooperation, logistics planning and execution on an unprecedented scale.<ref name=":02" />
 
[[The Dukes of Mikunn]] became the first minor faction in the galaxy to have 1,000 controlled systems in April 2015.<ref name=":22">[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1jozofk/the_dukes_of_mikunn_are_first_to_hit_1000/ The Dukes of Mikunn are first to hit 1000 controlled Systems] - WaltKerman - Reddit - 1 April 2025</ref> Thousands of independent pilots assisted their cause.<ref name=":22" />
 
=== Project Galatea Highway ===
Project Galatea crosses the [[Norma Expanse]] and nears the [[Isegrim Nebula]].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbvg1iFph2s Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-09-24 - Where you been?] - CMDR Precambrian Mollusc - 25 Sep 2026</ref>  Numerous Super Supply Hubs have been constructed along the Sgr A* and Galtea highways by 27 August 3312.<ref name=":03">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G24bBu9JQoI Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-08-27 - Going North] - CMDR Precambrian Mollusc - YouTube</ref> It has a peak build rate of 42 outposts & 480 ly in 24 hours. The high way has extended 14,000 ly from Sol.<ref name=":03" />
 
=== Sanguineous Rim Highway ===
The Sanguineous Rim Highway reaches the [[Seagull Nebula]] and establishes a supply hub in Sep 3312.<ref name=":04">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbvg1iFph2s Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-09-24 - Where you been?] - CMDR Precambrian Mollusc - 25 Sep 2026</ref> The next destination is The [[Rosette Nebula|Rosetta Nebula]].<ref name=":04" /> As of 24 Sep 3312 the galactic highways extend over 15,000 ly from [[Sol]].<ref name=":04" /> Commanders have visited at least 99 million systems according to galactic data of [https://spansh.co.uk/ Spansh].<ref name=":04" />
 
=== Grand Tiberian Highway ===
The Grand Tiberian Highway is a megaproject to build a highway from The Bubble to the Sagittarius A*.<ref name=":232">[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/the-grand-tiberian-highway-bubble-to-sag-a-official-hub-thread.650498/ The Grand Tiberian Highway – Bubble to Sag A* (Official Hub Thread)] - 24 October 2026 - Elite Dangerous</ref> It is built by the Mercs of Mikunn for the Dukes of Mikunn, with allies, other squadrons and (500+) independent pilots.<ref name=":232" /> It started as the Lagoon Nebula Highway and later split with the SagWay Mega Project.<ref name=":232" /> These are all part of the Grand Tiberian Highway.<ref name=":232" />
 
==== Lagoon Nebula Highway ====
The Lagoon Nebula Highway (LNH) was a mega-project that launched around 4 March 2025. The project aimed to build a highway with a colonized chain of systems and outposts from the Bubble to the [[Lagoon Nebula]].<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1j3g6ke/the_lagoon_nebula_highway_megaproject/ The Lagoon Nebula Highway MegaProject] - WaltKerman - 4 March 2025 - Reddit</ref> It is primarily lead by the [[The Dukes of Mikunn|Mercs of Mikunn]]. They reached the Lagoon Nebula on 18 October 2025 (4,200 light-years from The Bubble). 
 
==== Scope expanded ====
After reaching the Lagoon Nebula the scope grew and it was renamed to the Grand Tiberian Highway.<ref name=":233">[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/the-grand-tiberian-highway-bubble-to-sag-a-official-hub-thread.650498/ The Grand Tiberian Highway – Bubble to Sag A* (Official Hub Thread)] - 24 October 2026 - Elite Dangerous</ref> Mikunn collaborates with allies, and countless independent [[Pilot|pilots]] to build colonies.<ref name=":233" /> After 1 year, the [[Trifid Nebula]] and [[Cat's Paw Nebula NGC 6334|Cat Paw Nebula]] were reached in 3312.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbvg1iFph2s Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-09-24 - Where you been?] - CMDR Precambrian Mollusc - 25 Sep 2026</ref> The highway split: one branch through the [[Trifid Nebula]], [[Omega Nebula]] and [[Eagle Nebula]] toward [[Colonia]].<ref name=":162">[https://archive.vn/kZFOi Omega Nebula Now Open to the Community] - Walt Kerman - 6 Jan 2026 - Frontier Forums</ref><ref name=":233" /> The other road through the [[Cat's Paw Nebula NGC 6334|Cat's Paw Nebula]] and [[NGC 6357]] toward the [[Galactic Centre]] and [[Sagittarius A*]].<ref name=":162" /><ref name=":233" />
 
They reached the [[Omega Nebula]] on 6 Jan 2026.<ref name=":16">[https://archive.vn/kZFOi Omega Nebula Now Open to the Community] - Walt Kerman - 6 Jan 2026 - Frontier Forums</ref> The area has a unique starfield with:


'''System Colonisation''' lets players claim and develop uninhabited [[Star system|star systems]] with free-form expansion in the [[galaxy]].<ref name=":1">[https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=960279442800789 System Colonisation] - Elite Dangerous, Facebook Page - 30 October 2024</ref> The player becomes the [[System Architect]] when the initial colonisation stages are complete. This allows you to manage colonial development. It's an open process that can be performed by a solo [[commander]], [[Squadrons|squadron]] or [[Player Minor Faction|faction]].<ref name=":2" />  
* 40+ ringed water worlds along the route (many unclaimed).<ref name=":16" />
* Fantastic views in the nebula and stars.<ref name=":16" />
* A massive starfield of O and B stars with a 50 LY radius that contain 31 [[Black Holes|black hole]] systems, and 57 [[Stars|neutron]] star systems.<ref name=":16" />


Colonisation has rapidly increased the number of [[human]] inhabited [[Star Systems|systems]] from the [[Core Systems|The Bubble]] across the [[Inner Orion Spur]].<ref name=":1" /> There is an ongoing effort to colonize the [[Colonia Region]]. The playable beta version launched on 26 Feb 2025.<ref name=":7" />
==== SagWay Mega Project ====
SagWay is the core route which crossed the Hollow Veil Nebula in September 2026 and reached the HEN 2-333 lock.<ref name=":234">[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/the-grand-tiberian-highway-bubble-to-sag-a-official-hub-thread.650498/ The Grand Tiberian Highway – Bubble to Sag A* (Official Hub Thread)] - 24 October 2026 - Elite Dangerous</ref><ref name=":05">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbvg1iFph2s Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-09-24 - Where you been?] - CMDR Precambrian Mollusc - 25 Sep 2026</ref> The Hollow Veil Nebula has [[Ancient Ruins|Guardian ruins]].<ref name=":05" /> This route is shared with the [https://inara.cz/elite/squadron/1524/ Celestial Light Brigade].<ref name=":234" /> The [https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/the-lagoon-nebula-colonization-mega-project.634141/#post-10555854 SagWay Mega Project] is 60% completed towards the [[Galactic Centre]].<ref name=":212">[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1xeefgl/while_building_a_highway_to_the_core_mikunn/ While building a highway to the core, Mikunn became the first faction to reach 1 Trillion Residents] - WaltKerman - Elite Dangerous - 24 October 2026</ref> This is the first step coreward to Colonia and the rest of the Galaxy. As many nebula as possible are connected along the way.<ref name=":212" /> The highway is for everyone and all groups, to build and install their minor faction.<ref name=":212" /> [[The Dukes of Mikunn]] became the first faction to reach 1 trillion residents (1,003,825,444,053 in 7,665 systems) on 24 October 3312 (2026).<ref name=":212" /><ref>[https://inara.cz/elite/reports-factions/ Factions Report] - INARA - 24 October 2026</ref> They are near the permit locked [[guardian]] region that centers on Hen 2-333.<ref name=":212" />
 
<gallery>
File:Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-07-23
File:Galactic Exploration history, Mid-2026 (Elite- Dangerous) w- music
File:Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-08-27 - Going North
File:Elite Dangerous Colonisation Update 3312-09-24 - Where you been?
</gallery>
 
== Colonisation stats ==
[[Brewer Corporation]] released official figures on the initial colonisation rush on 13 March 3311 (2025):<ref name=":10">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/67d1cb963e704d1aaa0e2ef9 New Era of System Colonisation Hailed a Success] - Galnet - 13 MAR 3311</ref> 8 months after Trailblazers launched, the [[Core Systems|Bubble]] has expanded exponentially on 4 October 2025.<ref name=":11">[https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1229550565873674 Trailblazers Stats Update] - 4 Oct 2025 - Elite Dangerous Facebook Page</ref>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" border="1"
|+
!Objective
!13 March 3311 (2025)<ref name=":10" />
!4 October 3311 (2025)<ref name=":11" /><ref name=":15">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6kQYtfz1sk Elite Dangerous | Developer Log - 4 November 2025] - YouTube</ref>
!16 February 3312 (2026)<ref name=":17" />
|-
|System claims made
|26,684
|101,531
|
|-
|Systems colonised
|13,165
|75,984
|101,862<ref name=":17" />
|-
|New starports and outposts built
|24,037
|73,825
|
|-
|Surface installations established (facilities built on planet surfaces)
|14,216
|118,703
|175,973<ref name=":17" />
|-
|Units of cargo delivered to construction sites
|983,599,593
| 7,000,000,000+<ref name=":15" />
|
|-
|Space installations completed
| -
|203,813
|
|-
|Most popular construction
|Industrial Outpost - Vulcan - 5,970
|
|
|-
|Facilities built in space
| -
|277,638<ref name=":15" />
|307,014<ref name=":17" />
|}
These are the top economies developed.<ref name=":19">[https://www.instagram.com/elitedangerous/p/DU3okECjZne elitedangerous - Instagram] - 17 Feb 2026</ref>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" border="1"
!Economy
!Amount, Jan 3312 (2026)<ref name=":19" />
!Percentage, Jan 3312 (2026)<ref name=":19" />
|-
|Mining / Refining
|72,836
|16%
|-
|Communication
|71,247
|15%
|-
|Military / Security
|68,187
|15%
|-
|Industrial
|64,059
|14%
|-
|Scientific
|48,076
|10%
|-
|Agriculture
|42,630
|9%
|-
|Tourism
|10,970
|2%
|-
|Other / Mixed
|89,974
|19%
|}
<gallery>
File:Top Economies ED Jan 2026.png|Top Economies ED Jan 2026
File:Top Constructions ED Jan 2026.png|Top Constructions in ED Jan 2026
File:ED Trailblazers Colonization Stats 24 March 2025.png|ED Trailblazers Colonization Stats 24 March 2025
</gallery>
 
*


== Claim ==
== Claim ==
Line 13: Line 191:
The player must purchase a claim with [[credits]] from a [[Colonisation Contact]] (CC).<ref name=":4">[https://www.dpss.space/colonisation New Colonisation Mechanic First Look] - DPPS - 27 November 3310</ref> The CC is a member of a [[:Category:Factions|faction]] in a populated system in [[Core Systems|The Bubble]], and will become the initial dominant faction in any system that is successfully colonised (allowing existing BGS factions, player minor factions and - through faction proxies - the superpowers to expand their influence).<ref name=":4" /> A [[Nav Beacon|Colonisation Beacon]] must be deployed in that system within 24 hours.<ref name=":4" /> If this is not done within the time limit then the claim is revoked.<ref name=":4" /> If  this process fails twice, there is a 3 day wait until another claim can be made.<ref name=":8">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAC3rEOuSBU Trailblazers Update Brings NEW Exploration Opportunities] - Ricardos Gaming - 3 Mar 2025</ref> The Beacon costs 25 million [[credits]]. Multiple new systems cannot be colonised at the same time, though once an initial startport is constructed, another system can be claimed.<ref name=":8" />  
The player must purchase a claim with [[credits]] from a [[Colonisation Contact]] (CC).<ref name=":4">[https://www.dpss.space/colonisation New Colonisation Mechanic First Look] - DPPS - 27 November 3310</ref> The CC is a member of a [[:Category:Factions|faction]] in a populated system in [[Core Systems|The Bubble]], and will become the initial dominant faction in any system that is successfully colonised (allowing existing BGS factions, player minor factions and - through faction proxies - the superpowers to expand their influence).<ref name=":4" /> A [[Nav Beacon|Colonisation Beacon]] must be deployed in that system within 24 hours.<ref name=":4" /> If this is not done within the time limit then the claim is revoked.<ref name=":4" /> If  this process fails twice, there is a 3 day wait until another claim can be made.<ref name=":8">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAC3rEOuSBU Trailblazers Update Brings NEW Exploration Opportunities] - Ricardos Gaming - 3 Mar 2025</ref> The Beacon costs 25 million [[credits]]. Multiple new systems cannot be colonised at the same time, though once an initial startport is constructed, another system can be claimed.<ref name=":8" />  


After the Colonisation Beacon has been placed, a [[Colonisation Ship]] (CS) will arrive in the system at the initial port location.<ref name=":4" /> These ships are among the largest [[Megaship|megaships]] in the game (easily dwarfing a [[Drake-Class Carrier]]) and offer 32 landing pads for cargo deliveries.<ref name=":2">[https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2289337034 Frontier Unlocked #10] - Twitch - 30 October 2024</ref>  The player must deliver a list of items to the CS which depends on the starport type<ref name=":4" /> and acts as an initial hub to work on in the system.<ref name=":2" /> Logistics is key to building a starport by transporting [[materials]] into the system.<ref name=":3">[https://www.polygon.com/pc/473158/elite-dangerous-colonization-expansion-bubble Elite Dangerous will let players colonize the Milky Way in 2025] - Polygon - 31 Oct 2024</ref> One all materials are delivered, the newly made starport will appear in the final stages of construction and will be finished after the weekly server tick.<ref name=":4" /> The primary port must be deployed (built) within 4 weeks; if it is not completed within this time limit then the claim will revoked and any commodities will be lost <ref name=":4" />. The architect will also be unable to make another claim attempt for 3 days.<ref name=":8" /> The station under construction appears as an uninhabited [[starport]] covered in scaffolding, with inactive vendors and services, and notices advising final deployment is underway.<ref name=":12">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAD2A9ifeYs ELITE DANGEROUS - Colonization In-Depth Look] - Commander Exorcist - YouTube - 27 Nov 2024</ref>
After the Colonisation Beacon has been placed, a [[Colonisation Ship]] (CS) will arrive in the system at the initial port location.<ref name=":4" /> These ships are among the largest [[Megaship|megaships]] in the game (easily dwarfing a [[Drake-Class Carrier]]) and offer 32 landing pads for cargo deliveries.<ref name=":2">[https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2289337034 Frontier Unlocked #10] - Twitch - 30 October 2024</ref>  The player must deliver a list of items to the CS which depends on the starport type<ref name=":4" /> and acts as an initial hub to work on in the system.<ref name=":2" /> Logistics is key to building a starport by transporting [[materials]] into the system.<ref name=":3">[https://www.polygon.com/pc/473158/elite-dangerous-colonization-expansion-bubble Elite Dangerous will let players colonize the Milky Way in 2025] - Polygon - 31 Oct 2024</ref> Once all materials are delivered, the newly made starport will appear in the final stages of construction and it will be finished after the weekly server tick.<ref name=":4" /> The primary port must be deployed (built) within 4 weeks; if it is not completed within this time limit then the claim will revoked and any commodities will be lost <ref name=":4" />. The architect will also be unable to make another claim attempt for 3 days.<ref name=":8" /> The station under construction appears as an uninhabited [[starport]] covered in scaffolding, with inactive vendors and services, and notices advising final deployment is underway.<ref name=":12">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAD2A9ifeYs ELITE DANGEROUS - Colonization In-Depth Look] - Commander Exorcist - YouTube - 27 Nov 2024</ref>


Once the primary starport is built, the colonization beacon becomes a [[Nav Beacon|nav beacon]].<ref name=":4" />  
Once the primary starport is built, the colonization beacon becomes a [[Nav Beacon|nav beacon]].<ref name=":4" /> Then you can build the system at your own leisure (no time limit).


The Type-11 Prospector Update 2 introduced new functionality to prevent 'claim sniping'. When the primary port is completed in a newly colonised system, an exclusive lock on making claims FROM that system's colonisation contact will be enforced for a short period.<ref name=":13">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/update-notes/4-2-1-2 Type-II Prospector Update 2 - Update Notes] - Elite Dangerous - 16 October 2025</ref>
The ''Type-11 Prospector Update 2'' added functionality to prevent 'claim sniping'. When the primary port is completed in a newly colonised system, an exclusive lock on making claims FROM that system's colonisation contact will be enforced for a short period.<ref name=":13">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/update-notes/4-2-1-2 Type-II Prospector Update 2 - Update Notes] - Elite Dangerous - 16 October 2025</ref>


* The System Architect may exclusively make claims from the system for 30 minutes<ref name=":13" />
* The System Architect may exclusively make claims from the system for 30 minutes<ref name=":13" />
Line 35: Line 213:


== Construction ==
== Construction ==
[[File:Space Depot ED.jpg|thumb|250px|Space Depot]]
[[File:Space Depot in Nebula.png|thumb|250px|Space Depot in nebula]]
If all commodities for the primary starport are delivered within the 4-week period, the player who claimed the system becomes the [[System Architect]].<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":2" /> The architect has direct influence in placing existing assets, starports, planet ports, settlements and other facilities.<ref name=":3" /> There's a plethora of tools to work with. The architect has a certain number of actions to deploy construction sites and locations.<ref name=":5" />   
If all commodities for the primary starport are delivered within the 4-week period, the player who claimed the system becomes the [[System Architect]].<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":2" /> The architect has direct influence in placing existing assets, starports, planet ports, settlements and other facilities.<ref name=":3" /> There's a plethora of tools to work with. The architect has a certain number of actions to deploy construction sites and locations.<ref name=":5" />   


Before trying to place the first facility after completing primary starport, you must wait until after the weekly maintenance tick, which occurs on Thursdays at 0700 UTC. E.g., if you finished the primary port at 2100 UTC on Thursday, you'll need to wait almost a whole week before you can try placing a new facility.  If you finished the primary port at 0600 UTC on Thursday, you only need to wait an hour or two. Unfortunately, this has been complicated by the servers not being able to process all new systems during the maintenance tick, so it's possible you need to wait for a second tick before your system responds to attempts to build a new facility.  
Before trying to place the first facility after completing primary starport, you must wait until after the weekly maintenance tick, which occurs on Thursdays at 0700 UTC. E.g., if you finished the primary port at 2100 UTC on Thursday, you'll need to wait almost a whole week before you can try placing a new facility.  If you finished the primary port at 0600 UTC on Thursday, you only need to wait an hour or two. Unfortunately, this has been complicated by the servers not being able to process all new systems during the maintenance tick, so it's possible you need to wait for a second tick before your system responds to attempts to build a new facility.  


Newly placed orbital structures will deploy a Space Depot to handle deliveries and construction, while surface surface facilities deploy a local construction site. Each facility costs [[commodities]] and [[materials]] to build, with larger facilities requiring more commodities of specific types to complete. There is no time limit for building additional facilities after the initial starport is completed. When construction is finished, the station services will be available after the weekly server tick. After selecting the site for your first facility, verify that the number of concurrent construction sites decreased: this value is found in the Architect View. If it didn't decrease, your system may not have had its first maintenance tick yet. A [[Javelin-Class Carrier]] can carry lots of cargo. [[Squadrons|Squadron]] mates can help to make [[Hauler|hauling]] easier.
Newly placed orbital structures will deploy a [[Space Depot]] to handle deliveries and construction, while surface facilities deploy a local construction site. Each facility costs [[commodities]] and [[materials]] to build, with larger facilities requiring more commodities of specific types to complete. There is no time limit for building additional facilities after the initial starport is completed. When construction is finished, the station services will be available after the weekly server tick. After selecting the site for your first facility, verify that the number of concurrent construction sites decreased: this value is found in the Architect View. If it didn't decrease, your system may not have had its first maintenance tick yet.


For new surface facilities, after choosing the site, you must leave the instance for the construction site to appear. The construction site for a surface facility may appear immediately after leaving the instance, or it may take up to 48 hours. If it hasn't appeared after 48 hours, check the Architect View to see how many concurrent constructions you can have. If that number didn't decrease after selecting the site, it's possible your system didn't have its first tick of weekly maintenance yet. If a tick happened during the 48 hours you waited, you may want to try placing the site again. Otherwise, you'll need to wait until the tick to try placing the facility again.  
For new surface facilities, after choosing the site, you must leave the instance for the construction site to appear. The construction site for a surface facility may appear immediately after leaving the instance, or it may take up to 48 hours. If it hasn't appeared after 48 hours, check the Architect View to see how many concurrent constructions you can have. If that number didn't decrease after selecting the site, it's possible your system didn't have its first tick of weekly maintenance yet. If a tick happened during the 48 hours you waited, you may want to try placing the site again. Otherwise, you'll need to wait until the tick to try placing the facility again.  
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Each construction adds or substracts the following: Population Increase, Max Population, security, tech level, wealth, standard of living, development level.
Each construction adds or substracts the following: Population Increase, Max Population, security, tech level, wealth, standard of living, development level.


 
=== Orbital Facilities ===
 
=== '''Facility demolition''' ===
[[File:Demolition UI.png|thumb|275x275px|Facility demolition]]
A recent update made it possible to dismantle unwanted or wrongly placed facilities.
 
How to cancel facility construction in an already claimed system:
 
# Open the galaxy map, find the target system the facility is located in
# Open the system map and go into architect view mode
# Select the facility you want to demolish/cancel construction
# Press the demolish/cancel button at the bottom of the construction site required commodities list
# Confirm
 
The demolition process will be completed after server tick/maintenance, a count down timer will be shown in the UI.
 
'''Important notes when canceling/demolishing''':
 
* - '''Primary ports may not be demolished.'''
* - Already delivered commodities '''will not be refunded.'''
* - If you '''spent Arx''' '''to personalize a starport/outpost, it will''' '''not be refunded.''' (This may need confirmation, but assume as such) Starport/outpost paint jobs should still be in your account inventory and it should be possible to apply them to any other starport you constructed, like ship paint jobs.
* - '''Construction points''' that were used to build that facility '''will be refunded.'''
* - There is '''no limit''' to how many demolition/canceling requests can be made at the same time.
* - '''It is possible to change your mind''' at any time '''before the demolition timer count down''', by selecting the facility and pressing the "''cancel demolition"'' button, if you decide to keep the facility. Construction progress will be kept.
* - (This needs confirmation) Already completed facilities commodities will not be refunded, and any income that such facility contributed to the weekly System architect payment will be lost.
* - Any benefits that the facility contributed to the system will also be lost.
 
More investigation is required on the subject.
 
===Orbital Facilities ===
The [[System Map|system map]] shows all potential locations for a orbital facility. You can select the location and choose a facility to be deployed. Deliver goods and once that's finished the facility will be deployed.<ref name=":5" /> There are multiple tiers for orbital facilities.<ref name=":5" /> The big spaceports such as the [[Ocellus]] take a lot of effort.<ref name=":5" /> A supporting economy with small and mid-tier facilities are needed to unlock the large-tier facilities.<ref name=":5" /> The available orbital facilities are from [[Elite Dangerous: Horizons|ED: Horizons]].<ref name=":5" /> Here's a list of facilities that can be built:
The [[System Map|system map]] shows all potential locations for a orbital facility. You can select the location and choose a facility to be deployed. Deliver goods and once that's finished the facility will be deployed.<ref name=":5" /> There are multiple tiers for orbital facilities.<ref name=":5" /> The big spaceports such as the [[Ocellus]] take a lot of effort.<ref name=":5" /> A supporting economy with small and mid-tier facilities are needed to unlock the large-tier facilities.<ref name=":5" /> The available orbital facilities are from [[Elite Dangerous: Horizons|ED: Horizons]].<ref name=":5" /> Here's a list of facilities that can be built:


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|5
|5
|8
|8
|-
|[[Dodec]]
|[[Starport]]
|Colony
|Orbital
|3
|First station
|Large
|Tier 3: 6
|
|8
|4
|
| -4
|8
|9
|7
|10
|-
|-
|[[Outpost|Commercial Outpost]]
|[[Outpost|Commercial Outpost]]
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=== Commodities Restricted to Surface or Orbital Markets ===
=== Commodities Restricted to Surface or Orbital Markets ===
Some commodities are limited to either surface or orbital markets.  The table below describes which commodities are affected by orbital or surface markets.
Some commodities are limited to either surface or orbital markets.  The table below describes which commodities are affected by orbital or surface markets.
'''This may not be a complete list: these are just the ones I know about off the top of my head.'''
{| class="fandom-table"
{| class="fandom-table"
|+Orbital- and Surface-Restricted Commodities
|+Orbital- and Surface-Restricted Commodities
Line 1,117: Line 1,282:
|Refinery
|Refinery
|-
|-
|Emergency Power Cells
| rowspan="2" |[[Emergency Power Cells]]
| --
| Surface
|Trailblazer Megaships, or High Tech or Refinery near Akhenaten
|Industrial
|-
|Orbital
|High Tech/Refinery within 30 ly of Akhenaten
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" |Explosives
| rowspan="2" |Explosives
Line 1,156: Line 1,324:


There are also reports that only a commodity market in orbital slot 0 will be affected by economic influences of facilities at that body.
There are also reports that only a commodity market in orbital slot 0 will be affected by economic influences of facilities at that body.
== Population ==
Different facilities influence the population in a system.<ref name=":1" /> The baseline population scales significantly by [[station]] type, orbital facilities and local planetary body multipliers. These are estimates, because there are no official stats:
* [[Outpost|Outposts]] have around 10 to 5,000+ people
* [[Coriolis]] has a mid-tier population 10,000 to 10s of millions
* [[Orbis]] has 10s of millions to over a billion people near [[Earth-like World|Earth-like Worlds]] and [[Water World|Water Worlds]].
Placing a station near rich bodies like Water Worlds (30x multiplier) or Earth-Like Worlds (40x multiplier).
== '''Demolition''' ==
[[File:Demolition UI.png|thumb|275x275px|Facility demolition]]
A recent update made it possible to dismantle unwanted or wrongly placed facilities.
=== Cancel construction ===
How to cancel facility construction in an already claimed system:
# Open the galaxy map, find the target system the facility is located in
# Open the system map and go into architect view mode
# Select the facility you want to demolish/cancel construction
# Press the demolish/cancel button at the bottom of the construction site required commodities list
# Confirm
The demolition process will be completed after server tick/maintenance, a count down timer will be shown in the UI.
=== Important notes ===
These are important notes when canceling/demolishing a facility:
# '''Primary ports may not be demolished.'''
# Already delivered commodities '''will not be refunded.'''
# If you '''spent ARX''' '''to personalize a starport/outpost, it will''' '''not be refunded.''' (This may need confirmation, but assume as such)
## Starport/outpost paint jobs should still be in your account inventory and it should be possible to apply them to any other starport you constructed, like ship paint jobs.
# '''Construction points''' that were used to build that facility '''will be refunded.'''
# There is '''no limit''' to how many demolition/canceling requests can be made at the same time.
# '''You can change your mind''' at any time '''before the demolition timer runs out'''. Select the facility and pressing the "''cancel demolition"'' button, if you decide to keep the facility. Construction progress will be kept.
## (This needs confirmation) Already completed facilities commodities will not be refunded, and any income that such facility contributed to the weekly System architect payment will be lost.
# Any benefits that the facility contributed to the system will also be lost.
More investigation is required on the subject.


==Factions==
==Factions==
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=== Ownership ===
=== Ownership ===
The controlling [[Player Minor Faction|minor faction]] owns the facilities. Some minor factions are allied with a major faction ([[Alliance]], [[Empire]], [[Federation]]). The [[:Category:Power|Powers]] influence and exploit the systems, but don't actually own them. Many ships in a system are owned by a minor faction. Attacking them decreases your reputation with the minor faction. The architect places and manages the facilities in a system. The architect can technically be the owner by allying with a controlling minor faction.
The controlling [[Player Minor Faction|minor faction]] owns the facilities. These are usually NPC-governed populations except if a [[Player Minor Faction]] controls it. Some minor factions are allied with a major faction ([[Alliance]], [[Empire]], [[Federation]]). The [[:Category:Power|Powers]] influence and exploit the systems, but don't actually own them. Many ships in a system are owned by a minor faction. Attacking them decreases your reputation with the minor faction. The [[System Architect]] places and manages the facilities in a system. The Architect can technically be the owner by allying with a controlling minor faction. The Architect is permanently credited on the [[System Map]].


==Expansion==
==Expansion==
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== Rewards ==
== Rewards ==
The Architect amasses rewards via a regular [[Credits|credit]] payment from each system under your control. This is derived from the number and scale of facilities in the [[star system]]. These payments are issues weekly and can be redeemed by visiting an Administration contact. The weekly payment value increases when you accumulate more systems. A galactic levy is placed on your earnings if you earn more than 5 million credits.<ref name=":8" /> Players also receive a small discount on [[ships]] and [[outfitting]] when purchased in a system with 10 or more facilities.<ref name=":8" />
The Architect amasses rewards via a regular [[Credits|credit]] payment from each system under your control. This is derived from the number and scale of facilities in the [[star system]]. These payments are issued weekly and can be redeemed by visiting an Administration contact. The weekly payment value increases when you accumulate more systems. A galactic tax is placed on your earnings if you earn more than 5 million credits.<ref name=":1" /> Players also receive a small discount on [[ships]] and [[outfitting]] when purchased in a system with 10 or more facilities.<ref name=":1" />


== Guides ==
== Guides ==
Recommended spreadsheets and guides:   
Recommended spreadsheets and guides:   


* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1toXyDQglwVACFKx8umXhP8QcMSAUYPcP6k3STIV2-hE/ Elite: Dangerous Colonization Mega Guide] (by CMDR Mechan)
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1toXyDQglwVACFKx8umXhP8QcMSAUYPcP6k3STIV2-hE Elite Dangerous Colonization Mega Guide] - Version 2.0 (by CMDR Mechan and others)
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XI4z6Q9wFjBFk0mH3bdl33nw3df18pvUYXXGtVfSXbI CMDR Dubior’s Advanced Elite Dangerous Colonization Guide] - by CMDR Dubior
* [https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1j15dsm/colonization_construction_dependencies/ Colonization construction dependencies]
* [https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1j15dsm/colonization_construction_dependencies/ Colonization construction dependencies]
* [https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1j0kp86/colonization_build_tree_by_cmdr_vanionbb/ Colonization Build Tree by CMDR VanionBB]
* [https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1j0kp86/colonization_build_tree_by_cmdr_vanionbb/ Colonization Build Tree by CMDR VanionBB]
* [https://www.elitedangerous.com/news/system-colonisation-guide System Colonisation Guide] (official)
* [https://www.elitedangerous.com/news/system-colonisation-guide System Colonisation Guide] (official)
* The [[Pilot's Handbook]] in the [[Codex]] has tutorial information about colonization.
* The [[Pilot's Handbook]] in the [[Codex]] has tutorial information about colonization.
* [https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/alecs-guide-to-interesting-colonisation-systems-and-stations.638893/ Alec's guide to "interesting" colonisation systems and stations.]


<gallery>
<gallery>
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File:-Audiobook- Colonization Mega Guide
File:-Audiobook- Colonization Mega Guide
File:Colonization Guide - Trailblazers Update - Elite Dangerous
File:Colonization Guide - Trailblazers Update - Elite Dangerous
File:Elite Dangerous Colonization Tutorial- Refineries
File:A Beginner's Guide to COLONISATION! - Elite Dangerous Colonization Guide 2025
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 1,206: Line 1,417:
* [Https://ravencolonial.com Colony building, economy, and logistics planning.] (by [[Raven colonial corporation|Raven Colonial Corporation]]) - Good for planning a build in a new system.  Once you specify a system, it will display the features of each body.  Once you've selected the facilities you want to build, it will also show the projected economies at each port and total system statistics for Tech Level, Wealth, Security, and etc.  Requires you to give an account name in order to save your work.  No password or email address is needed.  If you care about security, you might want to use something other than your commander's name.
* [Https://ravencolonial.com Colony building, economy, and logistics planning.] (by [[Raven colonial corporation|Raven Colonial Corporation]]) - Good for planning a build in a new system.  Once you specify a system, it will display the features of each body.  Once you've selected the facilities you want to build, it will also show the projected economies at each port and total system statistics for Tech Level, Wealth, Security, and etc.  Requires you to give an account name in order to save your work.  No password or email address is needed.  If you care about security, you might want to use something other than your commander's name.
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1jsZOzNJSnPIWlU88puOc9gQXvsw-MGp8meoQ6k-Yj-Y Colonization Construction Details (By DaftMav)]. [https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1jkjl25/v3_of_the_colonization_construction_spreadsheet/ reddit post] - announcing version 3.  This is a spreadsheet with multiple tabs:  the most useful tab is probably the Stats tab that shows the economies, points, and statistics for each type of facility.  Having all of that info on one screen makes it easy to find which facility fills your next need, e.g. "I want a facility that gives High Tech economy and gives me a T2 point."
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1jsZOzNJSnPIWlU88puOc9gQXvsw-MGp8meoQ6k-Yj-Y Colonization Construction Details (By DaftMav)]. [https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1jkjl25/v3_of_the_colonization_construction_spreadsheet/ reddit post] - announcing version 3.  This is a spreadsheet with multiple tabs:  the most useful tab is probably the Stats tab that shows the economies, points, and statistics for each type of facility.  Having all of that info on one screen makes it easy to find which facility fills your next need, e.g. "I want a facility that gives High Tech economy and gives me a T2 point."
* [https://gaborauth.github.io/ed-colonisation-planner/ ED Colonisation Planner] - "This is a planner for colonising a system in Elite Dangerous: tell it what you can build (or upload a Journal file and let it estimate that from your scans), pick a goal, and it works out which facilities to build — and in what order — to get there, taking construction points, dependencies, and the escalating cost of building multiple ports into account."
* [https://edtrailblazer.com/ ED Colonization Helper] by CMDR Mr.Smile - an ED construction tool with carrier and multi-CMDR support.
* [https://edtrailblazer.com/ ED Colonization Helper] by CMDR Mr.Smile - an ED construction tool with carrier and multi-CMDR support.
* [https://edcolony.com/ EDColony] - a real‑time logistics companion for Elite Dangerous colony construction. It tracks your active depots, totals what’s still needed, and shows exactly how many trips remain based on your ship’s loadout. This tool was created to provide useful real-time information without the need for manual data input.  
* [https://edcolony.com/ EDColony] - a real‑time logistics companion for Elite Dangerous colony construction. It tracks your active depots, totals what’s still needed, and shows exactly how many trips remain based on your ship’s loadout. This tool was created to provide useful real-time information without the need for manual data input.  
 
* [https://map.canonn.tech/ The Canonn Tech Faction Mapping Tool] - Search, highlight, explore the size of a faction, overlaid in a 3D moveable map.<ref name=":20">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgkihfRWoB4 NEWS Elite Dangerous: View Your Faction in 3D Space, Fed NPC Kestrels & More!] - The Buurpit - Youtube - 13 Mar 2026</ref> It shows systems that the faction owns or is merely present.<ref name=":20" /> It also shows [[Permits|permit locked zones]] that are inaccessible for players.<ref name=":20" />  
== Trailblazer fleet ==
On 19 March 3311, the [[Brewer Corporation]] deployed the trailblazers fleet to strategic locations on the edge of the [[Core Systems]]. These are 'colonisation support hubs' with a bespoke trade market for colonisation materials and goods.<ref name=":9">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/news/galnet/trailblazer-fleet-deployed-support-colonisation-initiatives Trailblazer Fleet Deployed to Support Colonisation Initiatives] - Galnet - Elite Dangerous - 19 March 2025</ref>
 
Brewer COO Mark Rennik said in an interview that the first wave of independent colonisation efforts was ‘overwhelmingly popular’. “The speed at which new systems have been settled and expanded is frankly astonishing,” “and I'm delighted that so many pioneers have taken full advantage of this opportunity.”<ref name=":9" />
 
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" border="1"
|+
!Ship Name
!Star System
!Notes
|-
|Trailblazer Dream
|HIP 90578
|
|-
|Trailblazer Song
|Orgen
|
|-
|Trailblazer Wish
|Bletii
|
|-
|Trailblazer Star
|34 Omicron Cephei
|
|-
|Trailblazer Promise
|Klikis
|
|-
|Trailblazer Faith
|Ngobe
|
|-
|Trailblazer Echo
|Minerva
|
|}
 
== Statistics ==
[[File:ED Trailblazers Colonization Stats 24 March 2025.png|thumb|Trailblazers Colonization stats 24 March 2025]][[File:ED System Colonisation Stats 4 Oct 2025.jpg|thumb|ED System Colonisation Stats 4 Oct 2025]][[Brewer Corporation]] released official figures on the initial colonisation rush on 13 March 3311 (2025):<ref name=":10">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/67d1cb963e704d1aaa0e2ef9 New Era of System Colonisation Hailed a Success] - Galnet - 13 MAR 3311</ref> 8 months after Trailblazers launched, the [[Core Systems|Bubble]] has expanded exponentially on 4 October 2025.<ref name=":11">[https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1229550565873674 Trailblazers Stats Update] - 4 Oct 2025 - Elite Dangerous Facebook Page</ref>
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" border="1"
|+
!Objective
!13 March 3311 (2025)<ref name=":10" />
!4 October 3311 (2025)<ref name=":11" />
|-
|System claims made
|26,684
|101,531
|-
|Systems colonised
|13,165
|75,984
|-
|New starports and outposts built
|24,037
|73,825
|-
|Surface installations established
|14,216
|118,703
|-
|Units of cargo delivered to construction sites
|983,599,593
| -
|-
|Space installations completed
| -
|203,813
|-
|Most popular construction
|Industrial Outpost - Vulcan - 5,970
|
|}


== Ships ==
== Ships ==
Line 1,298: Line 1,434:
![[Frame Shift Drive (SCO)|SCO-optimized]]  
![[Frame Shift Drive (SCO)|SCO-optimized]]  
!Cost
!Cost
|-
|[[Anaconda]]
|Large
|114 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
470 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|9.66 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
41.45 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|183 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
209 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|244 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
279 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|No
|146,969,450 CR
|-
|[[Beluga Liner]]
|Large
|44 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
370 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|10.62 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
30.09 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|197 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
230 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|276 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
322 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|No
|84,532,780 CR
|-
|[[Corsair]]
|Medium
|48 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
318 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|12.96 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
39.58 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|288 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
325 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|366 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
412 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|Yes
|79,304,750 CR
|-
|[[Federal Corvette]]
|Large
|76 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
618 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|6.31 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
21.15 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|198 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
232 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|257 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
302 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|No
|187,969,450 CR
|-
|[[Imperial Cutter]]
|Large
|164 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
794 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|8.21 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
25.70 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|202 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
232 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|323 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
372 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|No
|208,969,451 CR
|-
|-
|[[Panther Clipper Mk II]]  
|[[Panther Clipper Mk II]]  
Line 1,311: Line 1,512:
|Yes
|Yes
|301,388,902 CR
|301,388,902 CR
|-
|[[Type-9 Heavy]]
|Large
|348 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
790 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|9.15 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
22.12 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|132 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
151 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|202 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
232 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|No
|76,555,842 CR
|-
|-
|[[Type-8 Transporter]]
|[[Type-8 Transporter]]
Line 1,338: Line 1,526:
|38,453,970 CR
|38,453,970 CR
|-
|-
|[[Type-7 Transporter]]
|[[Type-9 Heavy]]
|Large
|Large
|128 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|348 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
306 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
790 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|13.14 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|9.15 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
29.75 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
22.12 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|182 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|132 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
209 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
151 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|304 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|202 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
348 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
232 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|No
|No
|17,472,252 CR
|76,555,842 CR
|-
|-
|[[Type-6 Transporter]]
|[[Type-10 Defender]]
|Medium
|Large
|50 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|220 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
114 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
534 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|13.38 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|6.98 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
30.73 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
25.75 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|223 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|179 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
255 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
200 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|356 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|219 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
406 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
245 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|No
|No
|1,045,945 CR
|124,755,342 CR
|}
 
== Squadrons ==
These are notable [[squadrons]] that coordinate system colonization and large-scale infrastructure projects. In alphabetic order:
 
{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible" border="1"
!Squadron name
!Description
|-
|-
|[[imperial Cutter]]
|[https://antixenoinitiative.com/ Anti-Xeno Initiative]
|Large
|AXI completed the construction of its headquarters system via colonization in Pleiades Sector MI-S b4-0. Anyone can support general BGS and system colonization efforts, though specialized operations are coordinated directly through the Anti-Xeno Initiative Squadron.
|164 t <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|-
794 t <abbr>(''max'')</abbr>
|[https://canonn.science/ Canonn Research Group]
|8.21 ly <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|CRG helps players expand human presence by establishing and colonizing new star systems from existing Canonn-controlled faction bases. Detailed guides and land-grab tracking are coordinated via the Canonn Colonisation Resources page and community channels.
25.70 ly <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|-
|202 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|[https://inara.cz/elite/squadron/2894/ Mercs of Mikuun]
232 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|The first player group in Elite Dangerous to successfully colonize a system and receive a station through a historic Community Goal in 2015. They proved that player actions within the Background Simulation (BGS) could permanently alter the galaxy map. Their massive BGS effort convinced the developers to reward them with an official player-backed faction system and station.  They help chart and support accessible systems along deep-space colony bridges.
|323 m/s <abbr>(''default'')</abbr>
|-
372 m/s <abbr>(''upgraded'')</abbr>
|[https://www.operationida.com/ Operation Ida]
|Yes
|Operation Ida has expanded its heavy hauling and logistics coordination services to support player system colonization. Operation Ida acts as an independent player-run logistics faction that helps coordinate mass commodity and material transport. System architects can request assistance for building their new systems through a dedicated submission form found on the official Operation Ida website.
|208,969,451 CR
|-
|[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/project-akivili-a-group-for-collaborative-system-colonization.633919/ Project Akivili]
|They are dedicated to helping commanders with system colonization such as material deliveries. freight coordination, and community support. This reduces the heavy grind of solo players.
|-
|[https://projectgaltea.org/ Project Galtea]
|Project Galtea is an ambitious, player-driven long-distance system colonization initiative designed to build deep-space infrastructure and expand humanity's reach far beyond the bubble. Project Galtea launched the "Ridorana" Super Hub in the Norma Expanse and later brought the "Balfonheim" Super Hub online to support heavy colonization efforts.
|-
|[https://pilotstradenetwork.com/ Pilots Trade Network (PTN)]
|PTN is a major organization that coordinates haulers, resource supply runs, logistics, and helps players fund or build out new colonies. They help organize fleet carriers and supply chains to move goods efficiently.
|-
|[https://ravencolonial.com/ Raven Colonial Corporation]
|A prominent community tool and resource platform for system colonization. They provide build planning, haul tracking, and live overlays. Their player squadron, the Raven Colonial Corporation Navy, uses fleet carriers to transport cargo, supplies, and security for new colonizations.
|-
|[https://inara.cz/elite/squadron/15872/ Stellar Exobiologists' Guild]
|The Stellar Exobiologists' Guild runs the OASIS Initiative (Orion Alliance of Settlers & Independent Systems) to provide permanent, fully serviced fleet carriers ("oases") in deep space to help commanders explore, survey, and colonize distant regions without constantly returning to the bubble.
|-
|[https://sccn.space/ System Colonisation Contractors (SCCN)]
|SCCN connects system owners with fleet carrier operators and haulers to assist with colony expansion and station building. End-to-End Hauling. They provide logistics and space trucking outsourcing for heavy resource grinding. The group features a Rapid Response Corps that helps commanders get their initial primary ports or outposts started.
|-
|[https://inara.cz/elite/squadron-about/17639/ The Water Bubble]
|This squadron builds The Water Bubble, a 24 ly cluster spinward of Sol, to create a dense constellation on the frontier rivaling the population of any core system. They coordinate hauling, scouting, defense, and BGS in a transparent, inclusive way. They welcome veterans and new players alike to create a thriving and influential player-built region that will outlive its founders and serve the wider galaxy.
|}
|}
==Development ==
==Development ==
Since 2019, there was speculation about a new feature such as [[Base Building]]. System Colonisation was unveiled during the [[Frontier Unlocked|Frontier Unlocked #10]] livestream on 30 October 2024.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" /> Frontier's Arthur Tolmie said in Frontier Unlocked #1 (January 2024) that this new feature will be released "this year".<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLKOxF7FuIk Frontier Unlocked #1] - 31 Jan 2024 - Twitch</ref> While revealed as a colonisation feature late in the year, the update was ultimately delayed until early 2025 after the Cobra Mk V update and the conclusion of the Thargoid war.<ref name=":5">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YicQ2CkwIOQ Elite Dangerous | Frontier Unlocked Highlight | System Colonisation] - YouTube - 27 Nov 2024</ref>  
Since 2019, there was speculation about a new feature such as [[Base Building]]. System Colonisation was unveiled during the [[Frontier Unlocked|Frontier Unlocked #10]] livestream on 30 October 2024.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" /> Frontier's Arthur Tolmie said in Frontier Unlocked #1 (January 2024) that this new feature will be released "this year".<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLKOxF7FuIk Frontier Unlocked #1] - 31 Jan 2024 - Twitch</ref> While revealed as a colonisation feature late in the year, the update was ultimately delayed until early 2025 after the Cobra Mk V update and the conclusion of the Thargoid war.<ref name=":5">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YicQ2CkwIOQ Elite Dangerous | Frontier Unlocked Highlight | System Colonisation] - YouTube - 27 Nov 2024</ref>  
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===Beta===
===Beta===
The Trailblazers update featuring the System Colonisation beta was released on 26 February 2025.<ref name=":7">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/update-notes/4-1-0-0 Elite Dangerous | Trailblazers] - ED website - 26 Feb 2025</ref> What you do during the beta stays in-game.<ref name=":6" /> [[Frontier Developments|Frontier]] will check that it works correctly, including the tools, make adjustments while gathering data and feedback from players.<ref name=":5" /> During the beta, you can only start from the Bubble and expand from the systems.<ref name=":6" />
The Trailblazers update featuring the System Colonisation beta was released on 26 February 2025.<ref name=":7">[https://www.elitedangerous.com/update-notes/4-1-0-0 Elite Dangerous | Trailblazers] - ED website - 26 Feb 2025</ref> What you do during the beta stays in-game.<ref name=":6" /> [[Frontier Developments|Frontier]] will check that it works correctly, including the tools, make adjustments while gathering data and feedback from players.<ref name=":5" /> During the beta, you can only start from the Bubble and expand from the systems.<ref name=":6" />
=== Release ===
On 4 November 2025 Frontier announced the exit of the System Colonisation mechanic from beta status.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6kQYtfz1sk Elite Dangerous | Developer Log -  4 November 2025] - YouTube - 4 November 2025</ref> This occurred on 11 November 2025 with the release of the v4.2.2.0 Dodec Update of [[Elite Dangerous: Odyssey|''ED: Odyssey'']].<ref name=":14" />


==Videos==
==Videos==
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File:Elite Dangerous - System Colonisation Q & A
File:Elite Dangerous - System Colonisation Q & A
File:Elite Dangerous - 2025 Roadmap
File:Elite Dangerous - 2025 Roadmap
File:A 3rd Human Bubble is Forming NOW in Elite Dangerous
</gallery>
</gallery>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Space Depot ED.jpg|Space Depot
File:Space Depot in Nebula.png|Space Depot in nebula
File:Space Depot closeup ED.jpg|Space Depot closeup
File:Colonisation Ship ED.jpg|Colonisation Ship
File:Colonisation Ship ED.jpg|Colonisation Ship
File:Elite Dangerous Trailblazers Key Art.jpg|Trailblazers key art
File:Elite Dangerous Trailblazers Key Art.jpg|Trailblazers key art
File:ED System Colonisation Key Art No Logo.png|ED System Colonisation Key Art No Logo
File:ED Trailblazers Colonization Stats 24 March 2025.png|ED Trailblazers Colonization Stats 24 March 2025
File:ED Trailblazers Colonization Stats 24 March 2025.png|ED Trailblazers Colonization Stats 24 March 2025
File:Colonisation Linking Infographic 1 ED.jpg|Colonisation Linking Infographic
File:Colonisation Linking Infographic 1 ED.jpg|Colonisation Linking Infographic
File:ED System Colonisation Stats 4 Oct 2025.jpg|ED System Colonisation Stats 4 Oct 2025
File:ED System Colonisation Stats 4 Oct 2025.jpg|ED System Colonisation Stats 4 Oct 2025
File:Dodec Station and Gas Giant.jpg|Dodec Station and Gas Giant
File:System Colonisation Map Jan 2026 ED.jpg|System Colonisation Map Jan 2026 ED
</gallery>
</gallery>


Retrieved from "https://elite.mistflux.co.uk/wiki/System_Colonisation"