Research Progression and the Expanded Demo Tech Tree

What drives research?

The developer explains that selected manufactured items are converted into research at Science Labs. Unlocks include recipes, machines and ship or station modules. Read the exact current item requirements rather than assuming every technology consumes the same material.

What changed for returning demo players?

The Next Fest announcement explicitly unlocks Electromagnetic Science and adds equipment and locations. It also adds Shield Generator Mk. 1 among new modules. If your previous demo ended earlier, update and inspect the new objectives instead of treating that former endpoint as permanent.

Related guides

• Mining Ships and Drone Bays: Scaling Resource Supply
• Machines and Belts: Diagnosing a Stalled Production Line
• Cobalt, Graphite and the Midgame Science Route