Planetary Samples are among The Alters’ greatest assets, providing access to excellent research upgrades that can really make a difference in your survival and productivity. These Samples are only found through following and finishing Interal Trails, which are only accessible when using a Luminator—a device unlocked by early-game research.
The route is not always straight. Interal Trails curve along walls, plunge into inaccessible areas, or traverse anomaly-rich ground. Some are only accessible after specific Magnetic Storms, and others need mobility upgrades like the Climbing Hook or Drill Cartridge.
Luckily, when you’ve activated a trail, there is no countdown—do it whenever you want within the same act. And better yet: you don’t necessarily have to follow the glowing trail step by step. If you can see where the Sample ends and you’ve seen the trailhead (glowing green anomaly), you can pick up the Sample immediately.
Let’s set out all known Interal Trails locations by act:
Act 1 (2 Planetary Samples)
The first full act teaches you the basics, like dealing with Interal Trails and anomalies. You only have two samples, but you must have them to acquire your Luminator and early research options.
Northeast Sample (First Trail)
- Found early.
- Where: East of Mineral deposit, beyond lava river.
Head south from the base to the Mineral field, then take the eastern path north. You’ll arrive at a skinny anomaly-studded passageway. Across from it is the first Interal Trail head—your cue to learn about the Luminator.
Once you’ve been outfitted, return and resume upward up the rock wall along the path, which bends south. The Sample is located in the region’s southeast corner, near a cargo pod. After you’ve removed it, you can head west and rejoin the Mineral path.
South Sample (Post-Storm Trail)
- Available only after the final Magnetic Storm of Act 1.
- Location: Below the Organics field.
Start at the trail abnormality off of the main central road to the Mineral field. Head uphill and turn right at the summit. Walk around a lava pool and climb the ledge on the other side. The trail ends just beyond it, and the Sample is resting on a rocky outcropping to your left.
Act 2 (6 Planetary Samples)
This is the most expansive act and includes half the game’s total samples. Ensure you’ve unlocked the Climbing Hook—you’ll need it for several trail routes.
West Sample (Rapidium Cave Trail)
- When: Available early.
- Location: Halfway between the base and the Enriched Metals field, near the Rapidium caves.
Look for a steep ascent near the central western path, just prior to the Rapidium cave system entrance. The route starts at ground level. Climb the wall, enter the cave, and head to the back-right corner near the Energy Gate. The Sample is concealed there.
Northwest Sample (Confusing Overhead Trail)
- When: Mid-to-late Act 2.
- Where: Cave north of the Rapidium field.
Initiate the trail anomaly near the third Qubit Chip cargo pod. The trail will appear to head upwards and vanish—don’t worry. Return to the Rapidium field and climb the land bridge west to the Mineral deposit site.
Pick up the trail on the northern hill. The Sample is at the top of the tallest cluster of rocks. Bring climbing gear and avoid the anomaly clusters.
South Sample (Canyon Climb)
- Accessible early.
- Location: Southern canyon, southwest of base.
Head into the canyon and look left for the trailhead. Climb the ledge opposite, enter a dark cave, then climb again. You’ll see a Pulsating Anomaly ahead—destroy it to reach the Sample on a nearby cliff wall.
Northeast Sample (Post-Storm Cliff Trail)
- When: Appears after the first Magnetic Storm.
- Location: Directly behind the base, northeast.
Climb the ridge behind your base to the trailhead. The fastest way down to the Sample is to proceed left via the left tunnel to the Organics field. It is located in the initial cave chamber on your right side.
Extreme South Sample (Late-Act Trail)
- When: Appears after the second Magnetic Storm.
- Where: Above the southern Metals field, cliff.
Begin at the viewpoint to the Metals deposit and descend the trail. After going down, go left and into a dead-end cave.
The cave contains a hole in the ceiling which can be used as a route for the power line. Take that as your map marker for where Sample is located.
Act 3 (2 Planetary Samples)
There’s only two samples here, but they’re still valuable upgrades, especially for defense tech or base improvement efficiency.
South Sample (Post-Storm Trail)
- When: Appears after the initial Magnetic Storm.
- Location: Southwest of the base.
The route appears to be beyond the foundation. To avoid danger, drop down the nearby ledge into the dark valley below. The Sample is near the entrance, but Prism Anomalies may obstruct vision. Remove them with a Luminator or scan with your scanner and instincts.
North Sample (Final Sample in Game)
- When: Appears just before final Sunrise.
- Where: Northwest of the Enriched Metals deposit.
Proceed into the serpentine cave system northwest of the deposit. The path starts far within and circumnavigates south. Egress out toward the southern boundary of the radiation area—you will discover the Sample situated in a crag on the perimeter of the irradiated zone.
