In the expansive alien terrains of Astroneer, Aluminum is essential for space exploration. Astroneers use this lightweight metal to construct a range of structures and vehicles, including generators and shuttles. If you're a player who's having trouble finding this resource, the answer to your concern can be found as you continue reading.

How to Get Aluminum in Astroneer

To acquire Aluminum, you must explore the inner regions of the planet’s caves. There, you’ll find Laterite, a reddish-brown ore that can be processed into pure Aluminum with a Smelting Furnace. Alternatively, exchange 1x Scrap at the Trading Platform for 1x Laterite. Note that Laterite is generally found in the deep recesses of a planet’s underground realm. So, it’s a good idea to bring the necessary supplies for survival, including Oxygen Filters and Power Cells. Note: Craft the Smelting Furnace at the Medium Printer using 2x Resin and 1x Compound.

Aluminum Uses & Crafting Recipes

Astroneers must process at least one Laterite unit into Aluminum for the Smelteringly Hot mission. Completing this objective also requires players to unlock and print a Smelting Furnace. Farming Aluminum in Astroneer also presents Astroneers with multiple opportunities to progress through the game. In particular, this resource allows players to craft various items, which are the following:

Small Printer

• Oxygenator: 1x Ceramic and 1x Aluminum
• Medium Generator: 1x Tungsten and 1x Aluminum
• Medium Wind Turbine: 1x Aluminum and 1x Ceramic
• Tractor: 2x Aluminum
• Trailer: 1x Compound and 1x Aluminum
• Solid-Fuel Thruster: 1x Ammonium and 1x Aluminum
• Auto Arm: 1x Aluminum and 1x Graphite
• Rail Post Bundle: 1x Resin and 1x Aluminum
• Tall Rail Post Bundle: 1x Resin and 1x Aluminum
• Rail Junction Bundle: 2x Aluminum

Medium Printer

• Soil Centrifuge: 2x Compound and 1x Aluminum
• Buggy: 1x Compound and 1x Aluminum
• Large T-Platform: 2x Aluminum and 1x Resin
• Rail Engine: 1x Resin, 1x Aluminum, and 1x Copper
• Rail Car: 2x Resin and 1x Aluminum

Large Printer

• Small Shuttle: 2x Aluminum
• Landing Pad: 2x Ceramic and 1x Aluminum

Chemistry Lab

• Aluminum Alloy: 1x Aluminum and 1x Copper