WAYWARD SUN
PROFESSION · SCIENCE

Science

Collect local scientific evidence, Study compatible raw Science into applicable research, then use that Studied Science to push one existing property of a physical item further.

Exploration finds places. Science learns from them.Science needs both scientific-analysis and survey capability in the field. Compatible raw Science can then be Studied at Research and applied to real physical technology; there is no generic Science-point currency.

What the career actually does.

01Operate at a Science-capable location or site
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02Collect local scientific resources
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03Study compatible raw Science at Research
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04Create Studied Science
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05Apply it to one compatible existing property

What this looks like.

Science starts directly from the local actions when the location supports it and your ship has both Science and Survey capability. Field outputs come from that environment; they are not chosen from a focus menu.

ScienceLive-game visual language · example state
NavigationLocal operation
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DISCOVERED SITE · TYCHO FIELD

Anomalous Research Pocket

A temporary site of unusual readings suitable for Science work

Anomalous Research Pocket

Examples from this site's authored Science table. These are possible field results, not selectable targets.
Field-Control Calibration DataRaw Science that can be Studied for compatible field/control applications.
High-Purity Sensor SubstratePhysical research material with sensor/material affinities.
Spectral Reference DataRaw optical/control research that can be Studied.

The place determines what can be learned.

A cryogenic field, radiation environment, wreck site, mineral deposit, and anomaly each support different research families. A stronger science ship extracts more value from the place; it does not change what the place is.

Science Capability is resolved from the whole operating ship.

Science-analysis hardware
Survey hardware
Science handling capacity
Captain & Crew Science
Science Expertise, Research & Surveying
Power, cooling, condition, readiness & environment

Study and Enhancement are separate decisions.

CollectHarvest raw evidence in the field.
StudyQueue a timed Research job that consumes the required amount of compatible raw Science and produces Studied Science. Facility specialization can affect input, time, or cost.
Choose a propertyThe first Science enhancement permanently locks that physical item to one compatible existing property.
Upgrade laterA stronger compatible Studied Science resource can replace a weaker enhancement on that same locked property.

Science can make exceptional hardware even more specialized.

Enhance componentsPush an existing reactor, cooling, sensor, extraction, or other supported stat.
Enhance weaponsImprove a property the weapon already has.
Enhance hulls / slotsSpecialize physical ship architecture where supported.
Sell researchTrade raw or studied research resources.
Combine with manufacturingBuild an exceptional item first, then science-enhance it further.