How to Get Chromatic Metal in No Man's Sky

By
Daniel Hidalgo
2025-04-20 11:13:26


Cadmium is one of the many valuable resources in No Man's Sky, playing a crucial role in crafting, refining, and upgrading technology. Whether you're a new explorer or a seasoned traveler, understanding how to obtain and utilize Cadmium efficiently can significantly enhance your interstellar journey.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Cadmium, including:
  • Where to find Cadmium
  • How to mine and refine it
  • Best uses for Cadmium
  • Advanced refining techniques

How to Get Cadmium in No Man's Sky


Cadmium is a stellar metal, meaning it is found on planets orbiting specific types of stars. Unlike common resources like Ferrite Dust or Carbon, Cadmium is not available on every planet, so knowing where to look is essential.

1. Mining Cadmium from Planetary Deposits

Cadmium primarily appears as resource deposits on planets in red star systems. To find it:
  • Warp to a Red Star System – You’ll need an Indium Drive (or a Cadmium Drive if you're early in the game) to access these systems.
  • Scan for Deposits – Use your Analysis Visor (🔍) to locate Cadmium nodes.
  • Mine with a Terrain Manipulator – Extract the resource using your Multi-Tool’s Terrain Manipulator.
  • 🔹 Pro Tip: If you find Activated Cadmium, it yields more Chromatic Metal when refined but is only available on extreme weather planets.

    2. Refining Cadmium from Other Metals

    If you don’t have access to a red star system yet, you can refine Cadmium using:
    • Chromatic Metal + Cadmium (1:1 ratio) in a Medium or Large Refiner
    • Emeril + Chromatic Metal (1:1 ratio) (though this is less efficient)

    3. Purchasing Cadmium from Galactic Trade Terminals

    Some space stations, trading posts, and NPC pilots sell Cadmium. Prices vary, but it typically costs:
    • ~250–400 Units per Cadmium (varies by economy)
    If a terminal doesn’t have it, try:
    • Visiting other systems (especially those with mining economies)
    • Checking pilots who land in space stations

    4. Salvaging Ships & Destroying Freighter Cargo

    Another way to obtain Cadmium is by:
    • Dismantling ship upgrades (some yield Cadmium)
    • Destroying freighters or cargo pods in pirate systems (risky but rewarding)


    What Is Cadmium Used For?


    Cadmium has several important applications in No Man's Sky:

    1. Crafting Advanced Technology

    Cadmium is required to build:
    • Cadmium Drive (allows travel to red star systems)
    • Advanced exosuit and starship upgrades
    • Certain base-building components

    2. Refining into Chromatic Metal

    Cadmium refines into Chromatic Metal, a crucial resource for:
    • Crafting warp cells, hyperdrive upgrades, and other tech
    • Building advanced base parts
    🔹 Refining Ratios:
    • 1 Cadmium → 1 Chromatic Metal (Standard)
    • 1 Activated Cadmium → 2 Chromatic Metal (More efficient)

    3. Trading & Profit


    Since Cadmium is rarer than Copper or Emeril, it can be sold for a decent profit in systems where demand is high.

    Advanced Tips for Farming Cadmium Efficiently

  • Focus on Red Star Systems – They have the highest Cadmium deposits.
  • Use an Autonomous Mining Unit – Set up automated extraction on a Cadmium-rich planet.
  • Combine with Other Metals – If refining, prioritize Activated Cadmium for double the Chromatic Metal.
  • Check the Galactic Market Regularly – Some traders sell bulk Cadmium.
  • Conclusion


    Cadmium is a valuable resource for explorers looking to upgrade their gear, travel to new systems, and craft high-end technology. By mining it in red star systems, refining it efficiently, or purchasing it from traders, you can ensure a steady supply for all your interstellar needs.
    Now that you know how to obtain and use Cadmium, venture forth and harness its potential among the stars!

    Tags:
    exploration, survival, space travel, crafting, base building, player hubs, portal addresses, expeditions,
    Platform(s): PS4, Microsoft Windows PC, Xbox One
    Genre(s): Action-adventure, survival
    Developer(s): Hello Games
    Publisher(s):Hello Games
    Engine: Kein Wert
    Release date: 9 August 2016
    Mode: Single-player, multiplayer
    age rating (PEGI): 7+





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