How to Get More Probes in Mass Effect 2 (& What They’re For)

To upgrade weapons, armor, squad powers, and even the Normandy SR-2 in Mass Effect 2, Shepard will need to explore the various star systems of the Milky Way and gather rare resources. Many of the planetary systems in Mass Effect 2 are unexplored. Once Shepard enters their orbit in the Normandy, they can learn about each planet and scan them in search of Element Zero, Iridium, Platinum, and Palladium. When the scanner picks up a large quantity of any of these minerals, Shepard can launch a probe from the Normandy to collect it. These resources can be spent on upgrades in the Tech Lab aboard the Normandy that can better ensure survival during the endgame Suicide Mission to the Collector Base.

From the start of Mass Effect 2, the Normandy can store up to 30 probes at a time, and Shepard can purchase more in different systems around the galaxy. However, with a ship upgrade, they will be able to double that number, carrying and purchasing up to 60 probes at a time to allow them to explore more planets and pick up more resources easily. Here’s how to get more probes in Mass Effect 2.

How to Upgrade the Normandy’s Probe Bay in Mass Effect 2

Probes in Mass Effect 2 can be purchased from a Fuel Depot. These are structures found in any star system that also contains a Mass Relay. They cost 100 credits for 5, or 20 credits per probe. Depending on the richness of available resources in other star systems, 30 probes can typically last players between one and three systems before they will need to return to the Fuel Depot and restock.

To double probe carrying capacity, Shepard will need to go to Illium and complete the mission Dossier: The Assassin to recruit Thane Krios. This can usually be done immediately following the mandatory mission to Horizon and ahead of the mandatory mission to the derelict Collector Ship.

After completing the mission and bringing Thane on board, Shepard will need to go speak with him in Life Support. Like other squadmates, Thane can be asked about possible Normandy upgrades. When he offers to use his old assassin contracts for ideas, Shepard should say Yes to allow it.

This interaction will open the upgrade interface usually found near Mordin Solus in the Tech Lab. Under Ship Upgrades, players will find Modular Probe Bay. They can research it immediately for 15,000 Iridium, or save it for another time. Once the upgrade is made, Shepard can purchase and carry 60 probes at a time, allowing them to explore for longer periods without needing to return to a Fuel Depot.

While the Modular Probe Bay upgrade is not one of the three required upgrades to ensure the entire squad survives the run through the Omega 4 Relay during the endgame Suicide Mission, it can simplify exploration. It is in Shepard’s best interest to collect as many resources as possible, both to max out all possible upgrades and to carry into Mass Effect 3. Having over 100,000 of each of the four mineral types when importing a Mass Effect 2 save to Mass Effect 3 will grant Shepard an extra War Asset and contribute to overall galactic readiness.

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition launches May 14, 2021 for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, with forward compatibility for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

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