- Sandustry artifacts are rare objects detected during logical domain scans.
- Anomaly detection triggers a mission to investigate subsurface locations.
- Ulink required: You must build an uplink structure to send artifacts to the Arcanum.
- Tier 5 unlock: Analyzing 50 artifacts is mandatory to reach the fifth tier of operations.
- Void soil: Artifacts often rest on unbreakable void flower soil blocks.
Artifact Overview
In Sandustry, artifacts are mysterious objects that do not match the planet's known geological or biological archives. These items are typically found deep underground and are crucial for advancing your factory's capabilities beyond the standard resource processing loops.
Video Highlights:
- Detecting an anomaly using the logical domain scanner.
- Navigating underground caves to locate the physical object.
- Interacting with the artifact to trigger the "Arcanum" analysis request.
- Understanding the 50-orb requirement for Tier 5 expansion.
Finding artifacts often requires digging deep into the planet's subsurface. Ensure you have adequate lighting and escape routes (such as Rockets or a Grappling Hook) before venturing into uncharted caves, as hazardous terrain and lava pools are common.
Detection and Location
Artifacts are not randomly scattered; they must be detected by your base systems before you can pinpoint their location.
Logical Domain Scans
The process begins when your Logical Domain performs a scan. This is an automated event that occurs as you progress through the game's tech tiers. When a scan completes, you will receive a notification:
- "Anomaly detected."
- "Get down there and report what you see."
Navigating to the Source
Once detected, the general area will be marked on your map. However, finding the exact object requires exploration.
| Feature | Description | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | Anomalies are usually found below the standard surface layer. | Use Digger Drones or manual digging to descend quickly. |
| Terrain | Often surrounded by hard blocks like Red Sand or Scoria. | Bring Fluxite tools or explosives if available to clear paths. |
| Visuals | Look for distinct, glowing objects that contrast with the dark soil. | Place Shinelights or Lumlings to illuminate dark caverns. |
Artifacts often appear as floating, geometric shapes that do not resemble natural resources like flowers or ores. If you see a block that looks "out of place" or emits a faint glow, you have likely found the target.
Collection and Analysis
Once you have located the physical artifact, the collection process is straightforward but requires specific infrastructure to complete.
The Collection Process
Unlike standard resources, artifacts cannot be processed in standard refineries.
- Approach the Object: Walk up to the detected anomaly.
- Interact: Click or use the interaction key to pick up the object.
- Notification: You will receive a message stating the object does not match your archives and has been added to your inventory.
Sending to the Arcanum
To turn the artifact into usable progression points, you must send it to the Arcanum (the central analysis hub).
Build an Uplink
Construct an Uplink structure in your base. This serves as the transmission antenna for sending data and objects off-planet.
Access Uplink Menu
Interact with the Uplink to view available transmissions. The artifact will appear as a pending delivery option.
Transmit
Select the artifact and confirm transmission. This sends the object to the Arcanum for analysis.
Successfully sending artifacts contributes to the "50 Orbs" requirement. Once you hit this quota, your operations will officially expand to Tier 5, unlocking advanced technologies and new factory tiers.
Rewards and Progression
Collecting artifacts is not just for lore; it is a mandatory gate for high-level factory optimization.
Tier 5 Expansion
The primary reward for artifact collection is the expansion of your operational capacity.
| Milestone | Requirement | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 5 Access | Send 50 Artifacts to the Arcanum. | Unlocks new research trees, advanced logistics, and high-tier processing capabilities. |
| Research Points | Successful analysis of each artifact. | Grants points used to unlock specific technologies in the new tier. |
Strategic Value
Reaching Tier 5 allows for:
- Advanced Logistics: Faster belts and more efficient launchers.
- Experimental Features: Access to logic gates and precision tools.
- New Resource Chains: Ability to process complex materials like Fluorine and Fluxite more efficiently.
While you can find artifacts early, you may not be able to reach them without Tier 4 mobility tools like Rockets. It is advisable to focus on expanding your factory's fuel production before launching a dedicated artifact hunt.
Artifact Environment Types
Artifacts spawn in specific environmental conditions. Understanding these can help you prepare your excavation equipment.
| Environment Type | Characteristics | Recommended Gear |
|---|---|---|
| Subsurface Caves | Standard underground, often dark. | Shinelights, basic digger. |
| Lava Zones | High heat, dangerous flows. | Thermal Buffers, fire-resistant blocks. |
| Void Flower Soil | Contains unbreakable dark soil. | Prefabulator to bridge gaps; cannot break soil directly. |
Essential Gear Checklist:
- Uplink structure (built at base)
- Light source (Shinelights or Lumlings)
- Excavation tool (Digger Drones or manual shovel)
- Mobility gear (Rockets or Grappling Hook)
- Storage space (Vacuum Tank for extra loot)
FAQ
Q: What happens if I lose an artifact before sending it?
Currently, artifacts are unique items. If you lose the physical object (e.g., by destroying it or falling into a void), you must wait for the next Logical Domain scan to detect a new anomaly. There is no 'crafting' recipe for artifacts.
Q: Can I detect artifacts without the Logical Domain?
No. The anomaly detection system is tied exclusively to the Logical Domain scans. You cannot find them by exploring randomly; you must wait for the 'Anomaly Detected' notification.
Q: Do artifacts respawn in the same location?
Artifact locations are procedurally generated based on the scan. While they often appear in deep subsurface layers, they do not respawn in the exact same spot once collected. You must rely on new scans to find more.
Q: Why is the artifact sitting on unbreakable soil?
This is **Void Flower Soil**, a special block type found in deep anomaly zones. It cannot be broken or burned. You must build around it using foundations or the Prefabulator to reach the artifact.