Ice mining in EVE Online is a lucrative activity, as ice is a crucial resource for fueling starbases, jump drives, and producing coolant and other valuable materials. Ice spawns in specific systems across New Eden in the form of ice belts, which are special asteroid fields that regenerate every four hours after being completely mined. Here’s how to find ice mining locations and some tips for maximizing your efficiency:

High Security (High-Sec) Space

Ice belts in high-sec are relatively safe but highly contested. They are found in specific systems that usually have a security status of 0.5 to 0.7. Due to the safety of high-sec, competition over ice belts can be fierce, and belts may be depleted quickly after they respawn.

Low Security (Low-Sec) Space

Low-sec systems with ice belts offer a higher yield and less competition but come with increased risk from other players. Low-sec ice mining requires vigilance and often a prepared fleet to deter pirates or quick reaction to escape attempts.

Null Security (Null-Sec) Space and Wormholes

In null-sec space and certain wormhole systems, ice belts are even more lucrative. These locations are typically controlled by player alliances, and mining usually requires being a member of the controlling alliance or having their permission. The ice found in these regions can be exclusive, required for advanced manufacturing processes.

Finding Ice Belts

• In-Game Map: Use the in-game map and set filters to show systems with ice belts. Look for the «Ice Concentrations» filter under the «Stars» tab.
• EVE Online Resources: Websites like DOTLAN EveMaps or the EVE University wiki offer detailed information on regions and systems, including the presence of ice belts.
• Corporation and Alliance Intel: If you’re part of a player corporation or alliance, ask for intel on known ice mining locations. Members often share this information to benefit their group.

Ice Mining Tips

• Use the Right Ship: Specialized ships like the Procurer, Covetor, and their T2 variants, the Skiff and Hulk, are optimized for ice mining. They have bonuses to ice harvester cycle time and cargo space for ice.
• Fit Ice Harvesters: Equip your mining barge or exhumer with Ice Harvester modules. These are specialized for extracting ice from ice belts.
• Consider a Mining Foreman Ship: Ships like the Porpoise, Orca, and Rorqual can provide significant bonuses to ice harvesting yield and range, benefiting the entire mining fleet.
• Stay Alert: Especially in low-sec and null-sec, always be on the lookout for potential threats. Use the Directional Scanner (D-scan) and have a plan for quick retreat if needed.
• Fleet Up: Mining in fleets not only increases efficiency but can also provide safety in numbers. Foreman ships can offer protection and buffs, enhancing overall yield.

Remember, the dynamics of ice mining can change with EVE Online updates and player activities. Staying informed about the game’s current state and being adaptable to changes in ice belt locations or mechanics is key to being successful in ice mining ventures.