Exploration in EVE Online is a lucrative venture, allowing players to discover hidden sites across New Eden, including data and relic sites, wormholes, and more. The right ship fitting is crucial for maximizing efficiency and survivability in these endeavors. Here’s a guide to fitting exploration ships for various levels of play, focusing on essential modules and considerations for successful exploration.

High-Sec and Low-Sec Exploration Fittings

For beginners and those exploring safer spaces, here are basic fittings for a couple of popular exploration frigates:

Heron (Caldari)

• High Slots:
  • Core Probe Launcher I (with Core Scanner Probes I)
  • Prototype Cloaking Device I (optional for low-sec)
• Mid Slots:
  • 5MN Microwarpdrive I
  • Data Analyzer I
  • Relic Analyzer I
  • Cargo Scanner I
  • Scan Rangefinding Array I or Scan Pinpointing Array I
• Low Slots:
  • Nanofiber Internal Structure II (x2) or Inertial Stabilizers II for faster align time.
• Rigs:
  • Small Gravity Capacitor Upgrade I (x2) for improved scan strength.

Magnate (Amarr)

• High Slots:
  • Core Probe Launcher I (with Core Scanner Probes I)
  • Prototype Cloaking Device I (optional for low-sec)
• Mid Slots:
  • 5MN Microwarpdrive I
• Low Slots:
  • Data Analyzer I
  • Relic Analyzer I
  • Nanofiber Internal Structure II
  • Warp Core Stabilizer I or an additional Nanofiber Internal Structure II
• Rigs:
  • Small Gravity Capacitor Upgrade I (x2) for improved scan strength.

Null-Sec and Wormhole Exploration Fittings

Exploring more dangerous areas like null-sec and wormhole space demands better survivability and efficiency. Here’s an example fitting for a more advanced exploration frigate:

Astero (Sisters of EVE)

• High Slots:
  • Core Probe Launcher I (with Sisters Core Scanner Probes) for better scan strength.
  • Covert Ops Cloaking Device II for cloaking while warping.
• Mid Slots:
  • 5MN Microwarpdrive II for quick travel and evasion.
  • Relic Analyzer II
  • Data Analyzer II
  • Scan Rangefinding Array II
• Low Slots:
  • Nanofiber Internal Structure II for agility.
  • Warp Core Stabilizer II (x2) to escape potential threats.
• Rigs:
  • Small Gravity Capacitor Upgrade I (x2) for improved scan strength.
• Drones:
  • A mix of combat drones (Light Scout Drones) for defensive capabilities against NPC threats or to deter other explorers.

General Tips for Exploration Ship Fittings

• Prioritize Scan Strength and Speed: Your primary goal is to locate and access sites quickly. Modules and rigs that enhance scan resolution and decrease scanning time are essential.
• Balance Speed with Safety: Nanofiber Internal Structures improve your ship’s speed and agility, helping you evade threats, but they slightly reduce your overall tank.
• Cloaking Devices for Stealth: A cloaking device is invaluable for moving undetected in dangerous areas. The Covert Ops Cloaking Device, available on ships like the Astero, allows you to warp while cloaked.
• Prepare for Escape: Warp Core Stabilizers can help you escape from being warp-scrambled by pirates, but they come at the cost of reduced targeting range and scan resolution.
• Drones for Defense: If your ship can carry drones, equip a few for self-defense against NPC pirates or to ward off other players in unsecured space.

Remember, the best fitting for you depends on your specific exploration goals, the space you’re operating in, and your personal playstyle. Always be prepared to adapt your fittings based on your experiences and the evolving challenges you face in New Eden EVE Online.