It lets you scan alien tech, lifeforms, and other objects that your basic tool cannot handle. This upgrade is key for unlocking new Biomods at the Biolab and gathering deeper intel on the game's mysterious ecosystem and structures. Once equipped, it highlights scannable targets with a distinct green glow.

You will not find the Bioscanner early in your playthrough. It appears in the second major area of the map, after you reach the Alien Ruins and advance the main story via the NOA Terminal.

Prerequisites Before You Go

  • A working Repair Tool (required to open sealed doors in the wreck).
  • The Tadpole vehicle is highly recommended for faster travel.
  • Plenty of oxygen capacity and an air tank for the interior sections.
  • Basic Scanner already crafted and in your inventory.

Location

Travel roughly 1,800 meters east of your Lifepod or about 600 meters southeast of the Alien Ruins signal. The wreck sits on a plateau near a large alien turbine.

Step-by-Step: Finding and Scanning the Blueprint

Fastest Route (Bioscanner Only)

  1. From the Alien Ruins, head southeast with your Tadpole until the Cicada Wreck comes into view on the plateau.
  2. At the base of the structure, locate the repairable door.
  3. Use your Repair Tool to open it, swim inside, and follow the path downward.
  4. Scan the degraded Bioscanner at the bottom of the main shaft to unlock the recipe.

Full Exploration Route (Recommended for Extra Loot)

  1. From the Alien Ruins, locate the entrance marked with the number 73.
  2. Repair the door and enter.
  3. Go straight, take the first left, and continue into the next room.
  4. Scan the Iso Blackbox, the Photovoltaic Charger, and the Modification Station.
  5. On the right side of that room, find the narrow passage and swim through it. Grab the air tank along the way.
  6. Continue through the hole and descend the broken shaft.
  7. At the bottom, scan the degraded Bioscanner to unlock the blueprint.

Crafting the Bioscanner

Use any Modification Station with these materials:

  • 1x Scanner
  • 2x Enameled Glass
  • 3x Conduit Crystal

How to Gather Materials

  • Enameled Glass: Craft using Glass plus Creature Enamel. Creature Enamel drops from fauna roughly 280 meters southeast of the Alien Ruins.
  • Conduit Crystal: These grow near corrupted Rockbore or Angel Combs in the far eastern Alien Ruins zone (around 750 meters east).

Tips and Important Notes

  • Progress the NOA Terminal objectives until the Iso Blackbox signal appears on your HUD.
  • Bring a Repair Kit or two for doors.
  • The region has stronger currents and limited visibility. Travel during daylight or equip lights.
  • The Bioscanner is essential for later story progression and Biomod unlocks.

Once crafted, the Bioscanner replaces your regular Scanner when equipped. Safe diving!