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[[File:SideWinder_Cockpit_Guide1.jpg|thumb|400px|right|Overview of Sidewinder Cockpit]]
[[File:Viper Mk III Pilot Hangar.png|thumb|250px|Viper Mk III and pilot in hangar]]
This guide is designed to help a new or experienced pilot get the most out of their spacecraft. It uses the Falcon Delacy Sidewinder as an example but the concepts are applicable to all spacecraft in the universe of Elite: Dangerous.
The '''Pilots Guide''' is designed to help new [[Pilot|pilots]] get ahead in the [[galaxy]]. There are many [[Careers|career]] paths. You should choose a vocation that fits your play style and skills. The [[Sidewinder]] is the starter ship and used as an example. The concepts are applicable to all [[ships]] in [[Elite Dangerous]]. You can explore planets [[On Foot|on foot]], with a [[Ship-Launched Vessels|vessel]] or [[SRV]]. The [[Scarab]] is a staple [[Vehicles|vehicle]] for [[Explorer|exploration]]. Veterans may find this guide useful to get up to speed. You decide your own adventure in ED. This guide has key things that you should know for a better journey.


For a more detailed guide see '''[http://forums.frontier.co.uk/showthread.php?t=34437 Forger's detailed pilot's guide]'''.
== Overview ==
[[File:Sidewinder-Cockpit-Interface.png|thumb|250px|right|Sidewinder Cockpit Interface]]
If you've never played an open-world, space, trading, exploration and combat simulation game before then follow this guide to get your bearings.


Also check the '''[http://elitedangerous.com/guide/ official guide]''' for the Beta 2 additions.
Elite Dangerous has a steep learning curve with complex controls and minimal in-game guidance. There are basic tutorials, but the game expects you to figure out navigation, [[Trader|trading]] and survival by yourself. However, there are free [[Third Party Tools]] for optimal trade routes, track market prices, [[Engineers|engineering]] [[materials]] etc.


And the '''[http://forums.frontier.co.uk/showthread.php?t=20322 official Beta FAQ]'''.
You begin as a poor [[pilot]] with a loaned [[Sidewinder]] from a secret benefactor in the 34th century. In the [[Elite Dangerous: Odyssey|ED: Odyssey]] expansion you begin an [[On Foot|on foot]] tutorial that teaches basic mechanics like walking, interacting with terminals, using [[:Category:Handheld Tools|tools]] and [[Handheld Weapon|handheld weapons]]. All independent pilots are licensed members of the [[Pilots Federation]]. Every pilot has the title "[[commander]]". [[Ranks]] are earned by completing activities to unlock perks in the auxiliaries of the [[Federation/Ranks|Federal]] and [[Empire/Ranks|Imperial Navy]]. All newbies start in the [[Pilots' Federation District]]. This protected zone has basic [[Mission Board|missions]] and [[outfitting]]. Once you've earned your [[Ranks|first rank]] in combat, trade or exploration you are guided outside the district and the [[Permits|permit]] is revoked. Thence you must choose a path and make a living in the galaxy. What you want to do determines where you want to go.
{{clr}}


==Pilot Training==
The controls require learning dozens of key-bindings for thrusters, shields, landing gear and power distribution. You can customize the controls (mouse + keyboard, joystick/HOTAS or gamepad). By playing you will learn the basics like flight routines and gain muscle memory. Communication is primarily via the in-game [[Communications|Communications Panel]], which splits messages into several specific chat channels. You can also use voice chat and [[emotes]].
These videos outline the basics of Elite: Dangerous and are recommended for all new players.
 
<gallery hideaddbutton=true position=center widths=200px captionalign=center columns=3>
The [[Frame Shift Drive]] allows faster-than-light travel within [[Star system|star systems]] and via [[hyperspace]]. Newer ships are optimized for a more stable [[Frame Shift Drive (SCO)]]. SCO lets you temporarily overcharge your engine for extreme speeds in [[supercruise]]. Landing roughly on a high [[gravity]] world or [[Landing Pad|landing pad]] can destroy your ship.
File:Elite_Dangerous_Pilot_Training_-_Basic_Flight_Controls
 
File:Elite_Dangerous_Pilot_Training_-_Docking
The #1 golden rule is ''“Never fly without a rebuy”''. This means you should always have enough [[credits]] to cover your [[Ships|ship]]'s [[Galactic Insurance Company|insurance]] if it gets destroyed. The [[Pilots Federation]] covers most of the cost, but you must pay the rebuy fee (circa 5% of your total ship and module value).
File:Elite_Dangerous_Pilot_Training_-_Travel
 
File:Elite_Dangerous_Pilot_Training_-_Basic_Combat
There are 3 game modes: Solo (single player), Private Group (with friends and invites), and Open Play (with everyone). Newbies are recommended to play in Solo or Private Group, because it is safer. Open Play has the risks of random encounters with other players and PVP combat. The majority of players are in Solo or Private Groups. You can find other players in hot spots or systems with [[Community Goals|community goals]]. [[Squadrons]] are organized groups of players, similar to a guild. They are useful to socialize and do cooperative content like [[Operations]]. Many supports newbies and teaches them the ropes. The player base is very spread out across the [[galaxy]] and in 1 of 3 game modes. Thus it is rare to meet other players.
File:Elite_Dangerous_Pilot_Training_-_Starport_Services
 
File:Elite_Dangerous_Pilot_Training_-_Galaxy_And_System_Map
There are over 50 flyable [[ships]]. These come in 3 sizes: small, medium, large. They can have specific roles like combat, exploration, trading or multi-purpose. These ships are highly customizable via [[outfitting]]. The ship's modules and performance can be [[Engineers|engineered]] past the standard limits. The engineers can upgrade the tier of a blueprint in exchange for raw, manufactured and encoded [[materials]]. The [[Capital Ship|capital ships]] cannot be piloted directly, instead the owner gives orders. Capital ships like the [[Drake-Class Carrier]] and [[Javelin-Class Carrier]] are end-game features due to the very expensive price and upkeep costs.
</gallery>
 
[[On Foot|On foot]] lets you control your character from a first-person perspective. Such as explore a [[Planets|planet]], [[moon]], [[concourse]] in a [[station]] or [[settlement]]. You can also do [[combat]] as a [[mercenary]] and an [[explorer]] can take biological samples of alien [[species]]. You wear the [[Flight Suit]] by default. The [[Artemis Suit]] is designed for exobiology and exploration. The [[Maverick Suit]] is for salvage, stealth, and settlement missions. The [[Dominator Suit]] is meant for ground combat and conflict zones. Essential on-foot tools are the [[Profile Analyser]] to clone security clearances, the [[Arc Cutter]] to cut panels, and the [[Energy Link]] to power down or activate systems at a [[settlement]]. Various [[Handheld Weapon|handheld weapons]] are available for personal safety or offensive missions.
 
The activities range from easy to complex. Space trucking, data courier and basic exploration are easy. [[Combat]], deep-core [[Miner|mining]], [[Mission Board|missions]] at [[Settlement|settlements]], [[powerplay]] and [[System Colonisation|system colonisation]] are complex. Activities like long-distance space trucking and exploration require low attention so you can watch a movie on a second monitor. You can get a burnout by grinding the same activity. Take a break when you're fatigued or wait for the next game update.
 
[[Powerplay]] is a multiplayer, grand-strategy system for territorial control in the galaxy. Players pledge allegiance to one of 12 galactic [[:Category:Power|Powers]]. You can contribute to expand your faction's borders, fortify friendly systems and undermine enemy strongholds. Pledging to a power makes you a target for all other rival powers. You gain "hostile" status when flying through systems that are controlled or exploited by a rival power. The benefits of pledging to a power are lucrative perks like up to 100% rebuy reduction, 100% rebuy reduction if you're killed in hostile territory by an enemy faction, and exclusive rank decals. Every power offers passive income multipliers or cost discounts within their controlled territories. These benefits increase with your loyalty rank. There are 12 exclusive modules that can be unlocked with every power. Powerplay is optional and recommended for intermediate [[Commander|commanders]].
 
[[Operations]] are mid-to-endgame scenarios, because you should have an upgraded/engineered ship and on-foot equipment. It requires tactical coordination with teammates to complete the objectives. It's hard to finish an operation solo. Managing a [[Squadrons|Squadron]] is a late-game social activity, because you should know how the [[Background Simulation]] works, Powerplay, pooling resources and coordinating squad-mates.  
 
The galaxy has a gigantic 1:1 scale with around 400 billion [[Star system|star systems]] in [[galactic regions]].<ref name=":1">[https://starwalk.space/en/news/the-milky-way-galaxy Milky Way Galaxy: Facts, Location & How to See It From Earth] - Starwalk - 30 June 2026</ref> Each region has [[species]] who live on [[planets]] or in space such as [[Lagrange Cloud|Lagrange Clouds]]. There are a wide range of [[:Category:Characters|characters]] from all walks of life. The most notable aliens are the ancient insectoid [[Thargoid|Thargoids]] and the extinct humanoid [[Guardian|Guardians]]. [[Human|Humanity]] won two major wars against the Thargoids: the [[First Thargoid War]] (3125–3151) and the [[Second Thargoid War]] (3303–3310). They can still be found at [[Conflict Zone (Signal Source)|conflict zones]] and [[System Signal Sources]] in the [[California Nebula]], [[Pleiades Nebula|Pleiades]], [[Coalsack Nebula]], and around [[Thargoid Titan|Titan graveyards]].
 
[[GalNet]] is the galactic news network and data aggregator in ED that broadcasts lore, market information, and political developments across the Milky Way. This official news is made by [[Frontier Developments]]. There are 3 superpowers: the [[Alliance]], [[Empire]], and [[Federation]]. There are many [[independent]] people. The galaxy has trillions of characters. The [[lore]] of ED is deep and related to previous titles in the [[Elite series]]. Terminology and acronyms are frequently used in wiki articles and lore. Learn the common terms in the glossary of [[Acronyms & Slang]].
 
There are unsolved mysteries like [[Raxxla]], [[Soontill]], and the [[Formidine Rift]]. Certain aspects of the [[Guardian|Guardians]] and [[Thargoid|Thargoids]] remain unknown. There are secretive organizations like [[The Club]] and [[The Dark Wheel]].
 
Committing a crime (assault, murder, ramming ships) inside or near a [[station]] is met with lethal force by the surface and orbital [[Defence Turrets]] which destroy criminal ships in seconds. [[:Category:Security forces|Security forces]] like [[Advanced Tactical Response]] are active in all system types except anarchy. Security is the lowest in [[anarchy]] systems which have a higher chance of PVP. [[Bounty Hunter|Bounty hunters]] destroy wanted ships while [[Pirate|pirates]] steal [[commodities]] and sell them for profit. Learn about [[Crime & Punishment]] to stay on the lawful side of society.
 
ED has beautiful [[Elite Dangerous Music|music]], but the limited playlist gets repetitive so you can play custom background music.
 
ED has no official winning state or final quest. There is no linear campaign or final boss to finish the game. It continues after earning the highest [[ranks]]. ED is an endless sandbox so you must set goals, "''blaze your trail"'' and ''"leave your mark on the galaxy''."<ref>[https://www.elitedangerous.com/ Elite Dangerous description - Official Website] - 8 October 2026</ref> Chasing achievements and the destination are less important. It's more about the journey, discovering the Milky Way, and life among the stars.
 
== Codex ==
[[File:Elite-Dangerous-Codex-Commander-Stats.png|thumb|250px|Commander stats in the Codex]]
The [[Codex]] shows information and stats of your findings, progress, session logs and a curated archive of your discoveries.
 
The Homepage has the most important stats with a full body image of your [[Commander]]. You can customize the appearance with [[Holo-Me]].
 
The Discoveries section shows 42 [[galactic regions]] with things that players found and things that aren't discovered yet. For example within a [[star system]] there are [[stars]], [[planets]], terrestrials, [[Gas Giant|gas giants]], [[species]], [[Settlement|settlements]], [[generation ships]], text and audio logs etc.
 
The [[Knowledge Base]] has encyclopedia-style [[lore]] topics about e.g. historical events, important [[:category:Characters|characters]], [[factions]] and alien [[species]].
 
The [[Pilot's Handbook]] has detailed information about possible activities, ship [[outfitting]] and more. There's also a news feed.


==Center HUD==
== 1st and 3rd person ==
The centre area shows important tactical information.
ED is primarily designed as a first-person experience. By default you fly your ship in 1st person from the pilot seat. There is native support for keyboard & mouse, standard gamepads (like Xbox and PlayStation controllers), and dedicated flight peripherals including HOTAS, dual sticks, and rudder pedals. You can switch to 3rd person by activating the [[Camera suite|Camera Suite]]:


[[File:CenterHUDLayout.jpg|center]]
# '''Activate Camera Suite''': Press Left Ctrl + Left Alt + Space on PC (or hold B and press Right on the D-Pad on Xbox / hold Square and press Right on the D-Pad on PlayStation).
# '''Switch to Chase Cam''': cycle to the external view and adjust the camera behind your ship using your key bindings.
# '''Enable Flight Controls''': you can steer, boost, and fire weapons while in the external view, but there is no cockpit HUD.
You can map a dedicated "Enter Camera Suite" key in the '''Options > Controls''' menu. Once active, select one of the preset external camera views.


==='''Target Information'''===
[[On Foot]] is also designed for first-person view. The camera suite provides a 3rd person, cinematic view of your [[Holo-Me|character]] and surroundings. However, your Heads-Up Display (HUD) and crosshairs disappear. You cannot complete combat nor interact with objects while using the external camera view.
Displays textual information on the current target, such as their name, ship type, and currently targeted subsystem. If no target is selected then information on the system is displayed.


==='''Target Hologram'''===
[[Virtual Reality]] is supported inside [[ships]] and [[vehicles]], but not [[On Foot|on foot]]. The fan-made patch [https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1vl2f7o/edvr_unofficial_patch/ EDVR] fixes many issues.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1vl2f7o/edvr_unofficial_patch/ EDVR Unofficial Patch] - Ok-Mud-9379 - 11 August 2026 - Reddit</ref>
Shows a holographic image of the current target.


The following information is provided by the hologram:
== Difficulty ==
* orientation relative to ship
Elite Dangerous seems ostensibly simple, but there is a steep learning curve and complex mechanics. Picking the right [[Ships|ship]], [[outfitting]], [[Vehicles|vehicle]], [[Ship-Launched Vessels|vessel]], [[:Category:Handheld Tools|tools]], [[suits]] for an activity requires intermediate knowledge. Becoming proficient at a [[Careers|career]] takes tens of hours of practice. Mastering the flight controls, navigation, ship and on foot combat, system management and procedures to get the best results requires over 100 hours of hands-on experience. Some consider ED a slow, repetitive and badly explained game that requires the player to make concessions.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gl1b_EGzwTg Elite Dangerous - The BEST Space Sim in 2026?] - LT Gaming - 2 August 2026 - YouTube</ref>
* shield strength
** displayed as three blue circles for full shields and reduces to three red for downed shields
* hull health
** displayed underneath the target ship model
* position of incoming damage
** displayed as flashes of light on the hologram
{{clr}}


==='''Compass'''===
[[Flight Model|Flight mechanics]] and controls use physics with a fly-by-wire system. This requires precise throttle, directional management and memorizing the sheer volume of keybinds. Disabling [[Flight Assist]] allows near Newtonian flight. Learning a HOTAS setup (Hands-On Throttle-And-Stick) or a gamepad, keyboard + mouse takes a substantial time and dedication due to the sheer volume of buttons and keybinds.
The white circle marker indicates the position of the target relative to the ship's current heading. If the marker is a solid white then the target is in front of the ship and if the marker is an outline then the target is behind.  The Compass turns blue when the ship is lined up for a hyperspace jump to another system.


==='''Heat Indicator'''===
System management is very important to balance power distribution between engines, systems (shields), and weapons during flight and combat vs NPCs, players or [[Thargoid|Thargoids]]. PVP combat can be the most difficult, because it's often a mismatch of skills, equipment and humans are less predictable.  
Displays the current temperature of the ship (as a percentage).  Once the ship reaches around 140% heat it will begin to take damage.  Normally heat is radiated away from the ship through vents, however there are still a few ways that a ship can overheat - flying too close to a star, [[Silent Running]] mode which will stop the ship from emitting heat will cause the heat to build up inside the ship, or using too many heat inducing modules too quickly (such as continual boosting followed by FSD activation).  Under normal conditions, the heat vents of a ship will be able to keep a ship's heat manageable - though, in some situations the pilot may want to use a (previously equipped) [[Heat Sink Launcher]] to cool the ship.


==='''Scanner'''===
The galaxy is humongous so it's easy to get lost. This makes navigation an existential and vast undertaking. Deep space will be true isolation from inhabited space like the [[Core Systems]]. Long-distance [[Explorer|exploration]] involves coping with loneliness. Some people will suffer from [[Acronyms & Slang|space madness]]. You should know the different types of [[stars]], [[planets]] and how to find valuable [[species]] of flora and fauna that are worth collecting with the [[Genetic Sampler]]. [[Star system|Star systems]] are sparse in the galactic edge and densely packed in the galactic core. There are severe consequences if you mismanage the [[fuel]] of your ship, run out of [[Liquid Oxygen|oxygen]] of your [[Suits|suit]], land too hard on a planet or [[Landing Pad|landing pad]], or act criminally near a [[station]] or [[settlement]]. The [[Fuel Rats]] help those who are stuck without fuel. The [https://hullseals.space/ Hull Seals] repair ship and vehicle [[Hull Integrity|hulls]].  
{| class="wikitable" border="1" style="font-size: 12px; float: right;"
|+ Scanner Icons
|-
! Type !! Meaning
|-
| Green || Friendly
|-
| Yellow || Neutral
|-
| Red || Hostile
|-
| Grey || Cargo or FSD Wake
|-
| Flashing Red || Shooting at Player
|-
| Square || Weapons Not Deployed
|-
| Triangle || Weapons Deployed
|-
| Solid Icon || NPC
|-
| Outlined Icon || Player
|-
| Flickering Yellow || Unresolved Contact
|}
Displays contacts and signals in the surrounding area. Objects are displayed depending on their position to the player's ship. Contacts are shown in various colours and shapes, indicating information about each contact. All signals are resolved once their signature strength exceeds a certain sensor threshold. Signature strength is determined based on distance to the signal and its emitted heat. The scanner can be switched between linear and logarithmic mode, in logarithmic mode the area nearest to the ship is magnified to provide more resolution on the relative positions of object nearby.


The yellow marker in the gauge directly underneath the edge of the scanner circle shows the current scanning range. The scanner range is smaller if the marker is towards the left-hand side and at its maximum when set to the far right. By default the scanner range can be changed by pressing <code>Page Up</code> to decrease range and <code>Page Down</code> to increase range.{{cite}}
Activities like deep-core [[Miner|mining]] and smuggling require specialized knowledge to do properly. [[Xeno Hunter]] requires being familiar with the Thargoid [[Thargoid Scout|Scout]], [[Thargoid Hunter|Hunter]], [[Thargoid Interceptor|Interceptor]] and variants. There are third-party tools to make it easier. The [[trader]], [[System Colonisation|system colonisation]], [[powerplay]] and [[Engineers|engineering]] paths are so deep that many pilots rely on [[Third Party Tools|third-party tools]] like [https://inara.cz/elite Inara] or [https://www.edsm.net/ EDSM] to track data and utilize the [[Market Economy|economy]].
{{clr}}


==='''Speed Indicator'''===
== Guides ==
The speed indicator displays many things and can be one of the most important gauges when maneuvering.
* The current speed is displayed at the top as a number
* The horizontal bars indicate how fast the ship is moving relative to it's normal maximum speed (note that it is possible to temporarily go faster than the normal maximum by boosting)
* The moving horizontal line represents the current throttle
* The blue section indicates the optimal turning speed - try to keep the throttle within this zone to make tight maneuvers


==='''Ship Hologram'''===
=== Fan-made guides ===
Shows a holographic image of your ship.
New pilots should check the following fan-made guides. Note: some guides are outdated.


The following information is provided by the hologram:
* [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7glm5rbPHKxnltQU1SLxdqQrENIXJGUr Elite: Dangerous Pilot Training Tutorials]
* orientation relative to ship
* [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7glm5rbPHKx8MWl-oKkxLvEcAmumMVtw Elite Dangerous: Horizons Training Guides]
* shield strength
* [https://d1wv0x2frmpnh.cloudfront.net/elite/website/assets/English-PlayersGuide-Latest.pdf Official Players Guide (latest version)]
** displayed as three blue circles for full shields and reduces to three red for downed shields
** [https://d1wv0x2frmpnh.cloudfront.net/elite/website/assets/EN-PlayersGuide_v2.3_Latest_PS4.pdf Official Players Guide (PS4) (latest version)]
* hull health
** [https://d1wv0x2frmpnh.cloudfront.net/elite/website/assets/English-PlayersGuide-Latest(XBOX).pdf Official Players Guide (XBOX) (latest version)]
** displayed underneath the target ship model
* [http://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=773670824 The Guide for Almost Everything]
* position of incoming damage
* [https://thecakeisaliegaming.wordpress.com/2015/01/25/getting-started-in-elite-dangerous-a-guide/ An in-depth beginner’s guide to Elite: Dangerous]
** displayed as flashes of light on the hologram
* [http://i.imgur.com/nsI1V08.jpg A visual guide to exploration]
{{clr}}
*[https://www.elitedangerous.com/news/odyssey-guide Odyssey Guide]
*[https://www.elitedangerous.com/news/squadrons-guide Squadrons Guide]


==='''Power Distribution'''===
=== Wiki guides ===
Displays the current power distribution between the ship's three capacitors - Systems (SYS), Engines (ENG), and Weapons (WEP).  Energy in each capacitor is filled based upon how many pips are allocated to that capacitor.
A list of recommended wiki [[:Category:Guides|guides]] to learn about piloting and traversing space.


There are 6 pips that can be distributed at any time between the three capacitors by pressing the <code>Left Arrow</code> for Systems, <code>Up Arrow</code> for Engines, <code>Right Arrow</code> for Weapons, and <code>Down Arrow</code> to reset the pips to 2/2/2.  Each capacitor can be allocated a maximum of 4 pips which will cause them to regenerate at maximum speed and a minimum of 0 pips which will cause them to not regenerate at all.
*[[Acronyms & Slang]]
*[[Careers]]
*[[Crime & Punishment]]
*[[Docking]]
* [[Engineers]]
* [[:Category:Factions|Factions]]
*[[Flight Assist]]
*[[FSD Supercharging]]
*[[HOTAS Key Bindings]]
*[[HUD]]
*[[Hyperspace]]
*[[Supercruise]]
*[[Permits]]
*[[Powerplay]]
*[[Ranks]]


Each capacitor can store a maximum amount of energy determined by the ship's [[Power Distributor]].  When power is expended (either by shooting, regenerating shields, boosting, etc.) it then begins to regenerate back to maximum capacity at a rate determined by how many pips are allocated to its capacitor.
=== Support squadron ===


Players can view what capacitor each module draws from in the ship's right control panel under the Module section.
* [https://newp.io/ New Pilots Initiative] is a [[Squadrons|squadron]] that supports new pilots and develops their chosen [[:Category:Careers|career]].


====Systems====
=== Support issues ===
Shield and ship systems draw energy from this capacitor. The more energy stored here, the faster the shields will recharge.  Pips in this capacitor will influence the overall strength of the shields (note that zero pips will result in very weak shields).
For support issues check the following places before submitting a ticket:
*[https://customersupport.frontier.co.uk/hc/en-us/search?utf8=%E2%9C%93&query=FAQ Official FAQ]
*[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/categories/elite-dangerous/ Official game support forum]
*[https://customersupport.frontier.co.uk/ Official customer support]
*[https://customersupport.frontier.co.uk/hc/en-us/sections/4404016904082-Technical-Support Technical support]
* [https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/thegalacticacademy The Galactic Academy] is a portal for new Commanders to get help and support.


====Engines====
==Pilot training==
Boosting draws energy from this capacitor.  A boost can only be activated if there is a sufficient amount of energy stored.  Pips in this capacitor will influence the ship's maximum speed, optimum maneuverability range, and top boost speed.
These official videos outline the basics of ''Elite Dangerous'' for new players.
<gallery hideaddbutton="true" position="center" widths="200px" captionalign="center" columns="3">
File:Elite Dangerous Pilot Training - Basic Flight Controls
File:Elite Dangerous Pilot Training - Docking
File:Elite Dangerous Pilot Training - Travel
File:Elite Dangerous Pilot Training - Basic Combat
File:Elite Dangerous Pilot Training - Galaxy And System Map
File:Landing - Elite Dangerous Horizons Pilot Training
File:Passengers - Elite Dangerous Horizons Pilot Training
File:Elite Dangerous Pilot Tutorials - CQC
</gallery>


====Weapons====
==Fan-made video guides==
Weapons and some scanners draw energy from this capacitor.  Pips in this capacitor will allow weapons to cool faster thus reducing overheating problems.
These are fan-made video guides for newbies.<gallery hideaddbutton="true" position="center" widths="200" captionalign="center" columns="3">
File:🪐 Elite Dangerous Odyssey How to Have the Best Start New Player Beginners Guide 2025 SuperCut
File:A Beginner's Guide to Elite Dangerous in 2025 - For PC & Console
File:What to do in Elite Dangerous in 2025 - Overview, Guides, and Builds
File:Elite Dangerous - Intermediate Tutorial - Into The Maelstrom
File:Anti-Xeno Academy- Learn how to fight Thargoids
File:Beginner's Guide to Maneuvering, Supercruise Quick Drop, SCO, and Quick Auto Dock - Elite Dangerous
File:Elite Dangerous - New Player Tutorial - PIP & Distributor Management
File:ELITE DANGEROUS - Settlement Raiding Guide for N00bz
File:On Foot Combat - A Guide to Getting Started in Elite Dangerous Odyssey
File:Top 10 Community MODS and TOOLS in Elite- Dangerous
File:I played the most OVERWHELMING space game ever made - Elite Dangerous
File:GUIDE- Essential New Commander FAQ in Elite Dangerous (Flight, Docking & Travel)
File:How to engage with Powerplay - Elite Dangerous
</gallery>


==='''Signature'''===
== Lore videos ==
The waveform in the heat signature display indicates how much heat the ship is emitting to space.  A flatter waveform means less heat is being emitted, therefore it will be more difficult for the sensors of other ships to detect the ship's signature.  When [[Silent Running]] is switched on the waveform will be replaced with blue "Silent Running" text.
<gallery hideaddbutton="true" position="center" widths="200" captionalign="center" columns="3">
File:Fiction Diary -3
File:Elite Dangerous Lore Introduction, a primer for all CMDRs.
File:Elite Dangerous Lore, The Timeline Part 1
File:Elite Dangerous Lore, The Timeline Part 2
File:Elite Dangerous - Thargoid War Epilogue
</gallery>


==Contacts Panel (Left Panel)==
==Ship HUD==
This panel shows contacts and subsystems of a targeted contact. The contacts sub-panel can be used to target a contact. It shows the type of the target, hull health and shield strength.
{{:HUD}}


Once the target is scanned, the subsystems panel will show more information on specific sub-systems of it, and allowing players to target them. The health of each subsystem of the target is displayed here.
== Gallery ==
<gallery>
Cobra-Cockpit-Interface.png|Cobra cockpit interface
Sidewinder-Cockpit-Interface.png|Sidewinder cockpit interface
CenterHUDLayout.jpg
Sidewinder-Planetary-Flight-HUD.png|Planetary Flight HUD
</gallery>


==Systems Panel (Right Panel)==
== Third Party Tools ==
This panel has two important sub-panels: Modules, Fire Groups
ED has a steep learning curve and does not hold your hand, save for a few in-game tutorials. You can learn to use 3rd party tools and websites to make the gaming experience more enjoyable and easier.


=== Modules ===
The [https://edcodex.info Elite: Dangerous Codex] has a complete list of [[Third Party Tools]]. You can bookmark it, and use tools that you find useful. There are dozens of websites about ED worth bookmarking. Check the [[Fansites]] for a list of related sites, tools, data and guides.
The modules panel shows each system module of the ship along with its health, type and amount of power drawn from the power plant (this translates in to heat generated).


Modules can be turned on/off and re-prioritized. Prioritization affects which systems will shut down first if the ship cannot sustain energy flow for all modules (due to damage to the power plant).
The game utilizes an API that allows all in-game data to flow to multiple websites, tools, and utilities so all real time in-game data can be presented in many different ways. For example, [https://inara.cz/elite Inara] helps players search the nearest stations, minor factions, bodies, profitable trade routes, commodity prices, engineer component trading, ships, modules and personal equipment vendors. By registering at these sites and tools with your personal game API they can track your entire history and game data.


Disabled systems don't draw power and thus don't generate heat. Total power usage and heat generated are shown below the list.
ED also creates log files every time you play. These tools can pull that data in various ways to give you a detailed log of everywhere you go, buy and sell, and other player actions.


=== Fire Groups ===
== Ships for ARX ==
Ships can hold multiple weapons of all varieties and kinds. Fire groups can be assigned to weapons, the Yellow squares representing the primary fire, and the blue squares secondary fire. Multiple fire groups can be created, allowing different combinations of weapons and fire button assignments to be used. Previously created groups can be switched on the fly using the "cycle fire group" button.
Buying ships or [[livery]] with the in-game currency [[ARX]] (real money) is completely optional. It supports the development of ED for new content, features and updates.


The first single-player combat mission starts with a configuration of only one fire group with both weapons assigned as primary, meaning they both fire when the trigger is pressed. In this example, another fire group could be set-up, with only one gun assigned to each of the two fire groups. It will help to try around with this to get a good understanding of the mechanic.
=== Early access ===
You can buy early access to newly released [[ships]], [[Ship-Launched Vessels|vessels]] and [[vehicles]] for [[ARX]] in the ED Gamestore. After around 3-4 months it will be available for standard in-game [[credits]].


== Centre top ==
=== Pre-Built Ships ===
[[Pre-Built Ships]] are ready-to-use and specialized for a role with pre-equipped modules, paint jobs, and ship kits. If the ship gets destroyed, the base pre-built ship can be redeployed at zero [[Credits|credit]] cost. This allows you to skip the grind to manually [[Outfitting|outfit]] it from scratch with in-game [[credits]]. Some jump-start ships have pre-installed [[Engineers|engineered]] modules. The pre-built modules cannot be sold, stored or transferred to other ships. The bundles have Standard, Stellar, and Galactic tiers. These premium ships can be purchased with [[ARX]].


=== Proximity ===
Pre-built ships are convenient for new players, to switch [[careers]] or a second account. However, they're not necessarily pay-to-win (P2W), because it requires general knowledge and piloting skills to use properly.
[[Image:Cockpit Proximity Alert Lights.png|border|500px|right]]
The two elongated white panels (with red lights in them) flash red or yellow on proximity alerts. These panels may be in a different location or have a different shape depending on the ship's type.


==Additional Guides==
=== CMDR Starter Pack ===
* [http://i.imgur.com/NRYja8k.jpg Blazing your own trail in Elite: Dangerous]
CMDR Starter Pack is a bundle intended to help new commanders get started faster. It has lots of content like: ship, A-rated spec, ship kit, paintjobs, decals (emblems and logos), ship weapon detailing, [[COVAS]], [[Suits|suit]] and [[Handheld Weapon|handheld weapon]] [[Livery|cosmetics]]. The ship can also be deployed at any [[shipyard]]. The starter pack can be purchased with [[ARX]].
** This infographic provides a good overview and insightful starting information for each profession.


__NOTOC__
== References ==
[[Category:Guides]]
[[ru:Руководство пилота]]
[[Category:Gameplay]]

Latest revision as of 11:55, 22 October 2026

File:Viper Mk III Pilot Hangar.png
Viper Mk III and pilot in hangar

The Pilots Guide is designed to help new pilots get ahead in the galaxy. There are many career paths. You should choose a vocation that fits your play style and skills. The Sidewinder is the starter ship and used as an example. The concepts are applicable to all ships in Elite Dangerous. You can explore planets on foot, with a vessel or SRV. The Scarab is a staple vehicle for exploration. Veterans may find this guide useful to get up to speed. You decide your own adventure in ED. This guide has key things that you should know for a better journey.

Overview

File:Sidewinder-Cockpit-Interface.png
Sidewinder Cockpit Interface

If you've never played an open-world, space, trading, exploration and combat simulation game before then follow this guide to get your bearings.

Elite Dangerous has a steep learning curve with complex controls and minimal in-game guidance. There are basic tutorials, but the game expects you to figure out navigation, trading and survival by yourself. However, there are free Third Party Tools for optimal trade routes, track market prices, engineering materials etc.

You begin as a poor pilot with a loaned Sidewinder from a secret benefactor in the 34th century. In the ED: Odyssey expansion you begin an on foot tutorial that teaches basic mechanics like walking, interacting with terminals, using tools and handheld weapons. All independent pilots are licensed members of the Pilots Federation. Every pilot has the title "commander". Ranks are earned by completing activities to unlock perks in the auxiliaries of the Federal and Imperial Navy. All newbies start in the Pilots' Federation District. This protected zone has basic missions and outfitting. Once you've earned your first rank in combat, trade or exploration you are guided outside the district and the permit is revoked. Thence you must choose a path and make a living in the galaxy. What you want to do determines where you want to go.

The controls require learning dozens of key-bindings for thrusters, shields, landing gear and power distribution. You can customize the controls (mouse + keyboard, joystick/HOTAS or gamepad). By playing you will learn the basics like flight routines and gain muscle memory. Communication is primarily via the in-game Communications Panel, which splits messages into several specific chat channels. You can also use voice chat and emotes.

The Frame Shift Drive allows faster-than-light travel within star systems and via hyperspace. Newer ships are optimized for a more stable Frame Shift Drive (SCO). SCO lets you temporarily overcharge your engine for extreme speeds in supercruise. Landing roughly on a high gravity world or landing pad can destroy your ship.

The #1 golden rule is “Never fly without a rebuy”. This means you should always have enough credits to cover your ship's insurance if it gets destroyed. The Pilots Federation covers most of the cost, but you must pay the rebuy fee (circa 5% of your total ship and module value).

There are 3 game modes: Solo (single player), Private Group (with friends and invites), and Open Play (with everyone). Newbies are recommended to play in Solo or Private Group, because it is safer. Open Play has the risks of random encounters with other players and PVP combat. The majority of players are in Solo or Private Groups. You can find other players in hot spots or systems with community goals. Squadrons are organized groups of players, similar to a guild. They are useful to socialize and do cooperative content like Operations. Many supports newbies and teaches them the ropes. The player base is very spread out across the galaxy and in 1 of 3 game modes. Thus it is rare to meet other players.

There are over 50 flyable ships. These come in 3 sizes: small, medium, large. They can have specific roles like combat, exploration, trading or multi-purpose. These ships are highly customizable via outfitting. The ship's modules and performance can be engineered past the standard limits. The engineers can upgrade the tier of a blueprint in exchange for raw, manufactured and encoded materials. The capital ships cannot be piloted directly, instead the owner gives orders. Capital ships like the Drake-Class Carrier and Javelin-Class Carrier are end-game features due to the very expensive price and upkeep costs.

On foot lets you control your character from a first-person perspective. Such as explore a planet, moon, concourse in a station or settlement. You can also do combat as a mercenary and an explorer can take biological samples of alien species. You wear the Flight Suit by default. The Artemis Suit is designed for exobiology and exploration. The Maverick Suit is for salvage, stealth, and settlement missions. The Dominator Suit is meant for ground combat and conflict zones. Essential on-foot tools are the Profile Analyser to clone security clearances, the Arc Cutter to cut panels, and the Energy Link to power down or activate systems at a settlement. Various handheld weapons are available for personal safety or offensive missions.

The activities range from easy to complex. Space trucking, data courier and basic exploration are easy. Combat, deep-core mining, missions at settlements, powerplay and system colonisation are complex. Activities like long-distance space trucking and exploration require low attention so you can watch a movie on a second monitor. You can get a burnout by grinding the same activity. Take a break when you're fatigued or wait for the next game update.

Powerplay is a multiplayer, grand-strategy system for territorial control in the galaxy. Players pledge allegiance to one of 12 galactic Powers. You can contribute to expand your faction's borders, fortify friendly systems and undermine enemy strongholds. Pledging to a power makes you a target for all other rival powers. You gain "hostile" status when flying through systems that are controlled or exploited by a rival power. The benefits of pledging to a power are lucrative perks like up to 100% rebuy reduction, 100% rebuy reduction if you're killed in hostile territory by an enemy faction, and exclusive rank decals. Every power offers passive income multipliers or cost discounts within their controlled territories. These benefits increase with your loyalty rank. There are 12 exclusive modules that can be unlocked with every power. Powerplay is optional and recommended for intermediate commanders.

Operations are mid-to-endgame scenarios, because you should have an upgraded/engineered ship and on-foot equipment. It requires tactical coordination with teammates to complete the objectives. It's hard to finish an operation solo. Managing a Squadron is a late-game social activity, because you should know how the Background Simulation works, Powerplay, pooling resources and coordinating squad-mates.

The galaxy has a gigantic 1:1 scale with around 400 billion star systems in galactic regions.[1] Each region has species who live on planets or in space such as Lagrange Clouds. There are a wide range of characters from all walks of life. The most notable aliens are the ancient insectoid Thargoids and the extinct humanoid Guardians. Humanity won two major wars against the Thargoids: the First Thargoid War (3125–3151) and the Second Thargoid War (3303–3310). They can still be found at conflict zones and System Signal Sources in the California Nebula, Pleiades, Coalsack Nebula, and around Titan graveyards.

GalNet is the galactic news network and data aggregator in ED that broadcasts lore, market information, and political developments across the Milky Way. This official news is made by Frontier Developments. There are 3 superpowers: the Alliance, Empire, and Federation. There are many independent people. The galaxy has trillions of characters. The lore of ED is deep and related to previous titles in the Elite series. Terminology and acronyms are frequently used in wiki articles and lore. Learn the common terms in the glossary of Acronyms & Slang.

There are unsolved mysteries like Raxxla, Soontill, and the Formidine Rift. Certain aspects of the Guardians and Thargoids remain unknown. There are secretive organizations like The Club and The Dark Wheel.

Committing a crime (assault, murder, ramming ships) inside or near a station is met with lethal force by the surface and orbital Defence Turrets which destroy criminal ships in seconds. Security forces like Advanced Tactical Response are active in all system types except anarchy. Security is the lowest in anarchy systems which have a higher chance of PVP. Bounty hunters destroy wanted ships while pirates steal commodities and sell them for profit. Learn about Crime & Punishment to stay on the lawful side of society.

ED has beautiful music, but the limited playlist gets repetitive so you can play custom background music.

ED has no official winning state or final quest. There is no linear campaign or final boss to finish the game. It continues after earning the highest ranks. ED is an endless sandbox so you must set goals, "blaze your trail" and "leave your mark on the galaxy."[2] Chasing achievements and the destination are less important. It's more about the journey, discovering the Milky Way, and life among the stars.

Codex

File:Elite-Dangerous-Codex-Commander-Stats.png
Commander stats in the Codex

The Codex shows information and stats of your findings, progress, session logs and a curated archive of your discoveries.

The Homepage has the most important stats with a full body image of your Commander. You can customize the appearance with Holo-Me.

The Discoveries section shows 42 galactic regions with things that players found and things that aren't discovered yet. For example within a star system there are stars, planets, terrestrials, gas giants, species, settlements, generation ships, text and audio logs etc.

The Knowledge Base has encyclopedia-style lore topics about e.g. historical events, important characters, factions and alien species.

The Pilot's Handbook has detailed information about possible activities, ship outfitting and more. There's also a news feed.

1st and 3rd person

ED is primarily designed as a first-person experience. By default you fly your ship in 1st person from the pilot seat. There is native support for keyboard & mouse, standard gamepads (like Xbox and PlayStation controllers), and dedicated flight peripherals including HOTAS, dual sticks, and rudder pedals. You can switch to 3rd person by activating the Camera Suite:

  1. Activate Camera Suite: Press Left Ctrl + Left Alt + Space on PC (or hold B and press Right on the D-Pad on Xbox / hold Square and press Right on the D-Pad on PlayStation).
  2. Switch to Chase Cam: cycle to the external view and adjust the camera behind your ship using your key bindings.
  3. Enable Flight Controls: you can steer, boost, and fire weapons while in the external view, but there is no cockpit HUD.

You can map a dedicated "Enter Camera Suite" key in the Options > Controls menu. Once active, select one of the preset external camera views.

On Foot is also designed for first-person view. The camera suite provides a 3rd person, cinematic view of your character and surroundings. However, your Heads-Up Display (HUD) and crosshairs disappear. You cannot complete combat nor interact with objects while using the external camera view.

Virtual Reality is supported inside ships and vehicles, but not on foot. The fan-made patch EDVR fixes many issues.[3]

Difficulty

Elite Dangerous seems ostensibly simple, but there is a steep learning curve and complex mechanics. Picking the right ship, outfitting, vehicle, vessel, tools, suits for an activity requires intermediate knowledge. Becoming proficient at a career takes tens of hours of practice. Mastering the flight controls, navigation, ship and on foot combat, system management and procedures to get the best results requires over 100 hours of hands-on experience. Some consider ED a slow, repetitive and badly explained game that requires the player to make concessions.[4]

Flight mechanics and controls use physics with a fly-by-wire system. This requires precise throttle, directional management and memorizing the sheer volume of keybinds. Disabling Flight Assist allows near Newtonian flight. Learning a HOTAS setup (Hands-On Throttle-And-Stick) or a gamepad, keyboard + mouse takes a substantial time and dedication due to the sheer volume of buttons and keybinds.

System management is very important to balance power distribution between engines, systems (shields), and weapons during flight and combat vs NPCs, players or Thargoids. PVP combat can be the most difficult, because it's often a mismatch of skills, equipment and humans are less predictable.

The galaxy is humongous so it's easy to get lost. This makes navigation an existential and vast undertaking. Deep space will be true isolation from inhabited space like the Core Systems. Long-distance exploration involves coping with loneliness. Some people will suffer from space madness. You should know the different types of stars, planets and how to find valuable species of flora and fauna that are worth collecting with the Genetic Sampler. Star systems are sparse in the galactic edge and densely packed in the galactic core. There are severe consequences if you mismanage the fuel of your ship, run out of oxygen of your suit, land too hard on a planet or landing pad, or act criminally near a station or settlement. The Fuel Rats help those who are stuck without fuel. The Hull Seals repair ship and vehicle hulls.

Activities like deep-core mining and smuggling require specialized knowledge to do properly. Xeno Hunter requires being familiar with the Thargoid Scout, Hunter, Interceptor and variants. There are third-party tools to make it easier. The trader, system colonisation, powerplay and engineering paths are so deep that many pilots rely on third-party tools like Inara or EDSM to track data and utilize the economy.

Guides

Fan-made guides

New pilots should check the following fan-made guides. Note: some guides are outdated.

Wiki guides

A list of recommended wiki guides to learn about piloting and traversing space.

Support squadron

Support issues

For support issues check the following places before submitting a ticket:

Pilot training

These official videos outline the basics of Elite Dangerous for new players.

Fan-made video guides

These are fan-made video guides for newbies.

Lore videos

Ship HUD

The HUD, also known as a "head-up display" or "heads-up display", is how all information inside of a ship is displayed in Elite Dangerous. <tabview> HUD/Center|Ship: Center HUD/Right|Ship: Right HUD/Left|Ship: Left HUD/Down|Ship: Down HUD/Odyssey|On foot (Odyssey) </tabview>


Third Party Tools

ED has a steep learning curve and does not hold your hand, save for a few in-game tutorials. You can learn to use 3rd party tools and websites to make the gaming experience more enjoyable and easier.

The Elite: Dangerous Codex has a complete list of Third Party Tools. You can bookmark it, and use tools that you find useful. There are dozens of websites about ED worth bookmarking. Check the Fansites for a list of related sites, tools, data and guides.

The game utilizes an API that allows all in-game data to flow to multiple websites, tools, and utilities so all real time in-game data can be presented in many different ways. For example, Inara helps players search the nearest stations, minor factions, bodies, profitable trade routes, commodity prices, engineer component trading, ships, modules and personal equipment vendors. By registering at these sites and tools with your personal game API they can track your entire history and game data.

ED also creates log files every time you play. These tools can pull that data in various ways to give you a detailed log of everywhere you go, buy and sell, and other player actions.

Ships for ARX

Buying ships or livery with the in-game currency ARX (real money) is completely optional. It supports the development of ED for new content, features and updates.

Early access

You can buy early access to newly released ships, vessels and vehicles for ARX in the ED Gamestore. After around 3-4 months it will be available for standard in-game credits.

Pre-Built Ships

Pre-Built Ships are ready-to-use and specialized for a role with pre-equipped modules, paint jobs, and ship kits. If the ship gets destroyed, the base pre-built ship can be redeployed at zero credit cost. This allows you to skip the grind to manually outfit it from scratch with in-game credits. Some jump-start ships have pre-installed engineered modules. The pre-built modules cannot be sold, stored or transferred to other ships. The bundles have Standard, Stellar, and Galactic tiers. These premium ships can be purchased with ARX.

Pre-built ships are convenient for new players, to switch careers or a second account. However, they're not necessarily pay-to-win (P2W), because it requires general knowledge and piloting skills to use properly.

CMDR Starter Pack

CMDR Starter Pack is a bundle intended to help new commanders get started faster. It has lots of content like: ship, A-rated spec, ship kit, paintjobs, decals (emblems and logos), ship weapon detailing, COVAS, suit and handheld weapon cosmetics. The ship can also be deployed at any shipyard. The starter pack can be purchased with ARX.

References

ru:Руководство пилота

  1. ↑ Milky Way Galaxy: Facts, Location & How to See It From Earth - Starwalk - 30 June 2026
  2. ↑ Elite Dangerous description - Official Website - 8 October 2026
  3. ↑ EDVR Unofficial Patch - Ok-Mud-9379 - 11 August 2026 - Reddit
  4. ↑ Elite Dangerous - The BEST Space Sim in 2026? - LT Gaming - 2 August 2026 - YouTube
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