FFXIV: Cosmic Exploration Star Metal 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.

If you’re looking for most efficient route for gathering Star Metal in the new Cosmic Exploration zone (Patch 7, or Cosmic Exploration ‘Star Metal’ Gathering Route, you’re in the right place.

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.