FFXIV: Cosmic Exploration 'Star Metal' Gathering Route

With Patch 7.3, Cosmic Exploration has sent Disciples of the Land and Hand to the edge of the universe. The most sought-after material for the new Neo-Kingdom gear sets is Star Metal.

Note: Verified as of July 2026. Check official patch notes for updates.

Preparation

• Class: Miner (BTN cannot gather Star Metal).
• Stats: Gathering 4200+, Perception 4000+ (for HQ proc).
• Spacesuit: Ensure your Cosmic Eva Suit has enough oxygen canisters for a 30-minute loop.

The Route: Sector Alpha-4 (The Asteroid Belt)

This route is a continuous loop. The nodes respawn quickly due to the high density of obstacles.

Waypoint 1: The Crash Site (X: 12.4, Y: 18.0)

• Start here.
• Nodes: 3 clusters of Star Metal Ore.
• Hazard: Watch out for “Void Drifters” (Aggro mobs). Stealth is required.

Waypoint 2: The Crystalline Bridge (X: 15.0, Y: 22.5)

• Fly ‘Up’ (Z-axis is enabled here).
• Nodes: 2 +2 Yield nodes often spawn on the underside of the clear bridge.
• Skill: Use King’s Yield II here.

Waypoint 3: The Nebula Edge (X: 10.0, Y: 25.0)

• Circle back towards the start.
• Nodes: 3 standard nodes.
• Ephemeral Node: At 8:00 - 12:00 Eorzea Time, an Ephemeral Node spawns here dropping “Stardust Crystal” (Aethersand reduction).

Cordial Management

• Use Hi-Cordial on cooldown.
• Save 400 GP for the Crystalline Bridge nodes to guarantee the +2 yield.
• If you have the “Cosmic Resonance” buff from the base camp, you regenerate GP 10% faster.

Total Yield

Following this loop efficiently yields approximately 300-400 Star Metal per hour, which currently sells for 2,000 gil pe unit on most data centers.