colonization Tech Comparison
Deep Space Colonisation vs Terraforming Protocols
Comparing the Deep Space Colonisation (Tier 3) and Terraforming Protocols (Tier 3), both colonization technologies in Starforge MMO. Use this to decide which to queue first when your research lab can only run one project at a time.
Research Comparison
| Attribute | Deep Space Colonisation | Terraforming Protocols |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | T3 | T3 |
| Research time | 40 | 20▼ |
| metal cost | 80,000 | 45,000▼ |
| crystal cost | 40,000 | 22,000▼ |
| gas cost | 10,000 | 6,000▼ |
| antimatter cost | 300▼ | — |
| Effect | colonize outer ring: true; +50% colony ship range | colonize hostile worlds: true; +40% terraforming speed |
▼ marks the lower resource / time cost. Cheaper isn't always better — weigh it against the effect each tech unlocks.
Deep Space Colonisation
Long-range colony ships with self-sufficient life support colonise systems beyond the outer ring.
Unlocks buildings: deep space colony hub
Unlocks ships: colony ship mk3
Requires: colonization 8, propulsion 5
Terraforming Protocols
Advanced atmospheric processors enable colonization of hostile desert, arctic, and volcanic worlds.
Unlocks buildings: terraforming station
Requires: colonization 7
Which Should You Research First?
Both sit at the same tier. The Terraforming Protocols is the cheaper project, so it's the safer early pick if your economy is tight; otherwise prioritise whichever effect supports your current strategy.