Finding essential building blocks in Astroneer often requires explorers to venture far beyond their initial landing zones. Clay is one such crucial resource needed to produce ceramic, which unlocks several advanced crafting options and base utilities. While it might seem scarce compared to compound or resin, knowing exactly what to look for makes the hunt significantly easier.
Spotting Clay on Planet Surfaces
Clay can be found on the surface of every planet, but it is easiest to spot on the starting planet, Sylva. It generates naturally in the plains biome, away from dense forests and steep mountain ranges. When exploring, you should look for clusters of small, brown formations that resemble jagged pyramids or triangular wedges peeking out of the earthy ground.
Because its color often blends with the surrounding terrain, many players accidentally overlook these valuable deposits. Utilizing a rover can help you cover large distances quickly while keeping an eye out for these distinctive rock-like shapes. Once you locate a patch, simply deploy your terrain tool to extract the material into your inventory.
Alternative Methods Using Base Utilities
If searching the vast planetary surfaces proves too tedious, you can turn to automated base structures for a steady supply. The soil centrifuge is a highly reliable alternative that converts ordinary dirt into specific resources. By depositing two full canisters of soil into the centrifuge, you can readily select and produce clay blocks without leaving your base area.
Another advanced option for late-game players involves utilizing the trade platform to acquire materials. This utility allows you to exchange scrap that you gather from broken debris found across various planets. You can trade a single unit of scrap to instantly receive two pieces of clay delivered directly to your launch pad.
Why Crafting Ceramic Matters
Securing a stable supply of clay allows you to advance your technology tree by processing it in a smelting furnace. Cooking raw clay transforms it into ceramic, an essential component for building medium wind turbines and large storage units. These items are vital for optimizing your base power grid and keeping your inventory organized as your operations expand.
