Random containers targeting

[Andargor]

Hello, how do you target random containers you find in space, like this one? I tried Numpad 0, Numpad 1, Numpad 3, clicking with the mouse, can't select it. I'd like to know the contents. I can tractor beam cargo out of it just fine, it's given me about 70+ Exodus missiles so far, but I'd like to see its inventory and I can't.

[Vice]

Those are hidden storage containers and are cloaked from sensors (to hide their presence and contents). Only radar can pick them up and then, only at close range. As a result, they can't be targeted or scanned for contents. They must be spotted by radar when close enough or sometimes, visually first.

[Andargor]

Ok, I'll just keep slurping up the Exodus missiles it spits out. I am assuming it is not infinite...

[Vice]

They do have limits.

[Marvin]

I'm getting old. I'd have sworn you could pick them up (purple blip on radar) if they were within the circle of a deployed sensor array. At any distance as long as it was within the sector.

[Vice]

Marvin is correct, I'm getting old also You can also deploy a sensor station to detect them at longer ranges up to 50K. On-ship sensor/tracking systems are limited to the radar.

[Marvin]

On the map, you can usually right-click (default keyboard setting) on the dot to set a jump point. Be careful though, in case the dot is on the surface of a planet. Jumping to one of those can ruin your day.

[Andargor]

I haven't had to use sensor stations to find them, if that's what you mean. I use the power of trigonometry.

[Marvin]

Finding them by using the info you get from your science officer is easier now that you get a pitch readout on the HUD. You used to have to eyeball the pitch ladder and that wasn't nearly as accurate.