Jump Space Reactors Guide | How Reactors Work and Upgrade
Reactors in Jump Space power every system on your ship, from shields to weapons to life support. Many new players wonder how reactors work, how to upgrade them, and what happens when you swap them out. Since your ship lives or dies by its reactor, understanding this system early makes every mission smoother.
How to Use and Upgrade Reactors
Reactors generate energy and provide a power grid for ship systems. Each module you install takes up grid space, almost like fitting Tetris pieces together. A better reactor gives more space, stronger output, or protected slots for critical systems.
You can upgrade reactors in two main ways. First, by looting new ones during missions. Second, by ship repairs that raise your Mk level. Both upgrades are permanent to your ship, even if weapons and consumables reset after runs.
How Reactors Affect Gameplay
Reactors decide how much you can keep online at once. With a weak reactor, you’ll need to choose between powering weapons, shields, or support tools. With a stronger one, you can handle more without constant shuffling.
Protected slots are meant to keep systems safe from shutdown during hazards like radiation. In Early Access, they don’t always work as intended, but the design is clear. Slotting shields or core systems here will matter once the feature is stable.
Known Bugs and Limitations
Descriptions sometimes bug, showing stats of nearby items until you re-pick the reactor.
Protected slots do not always prevent shutdown.
You can’t test layouts in the hangar hub, only while on a mission.
Despite these issues, reactors remain one of the strongest long-term upgrades you can invest in.
Why You Should Prioritize Reactor Upgrades
Every permanent improvement in Jump Space matters, but reactors impact survival the most. A better grid layout means faster recovery when things break, fewer power trade-offs, and more reliable ship systems under pressure.
Even with Early Access quirks, reactors are a priority for any crew that wants to push harder missions without constant chaos.
Final Blurb
Reactors are the true core of Jump Space. They control your grid, lock in permanent upgrades, and shape how your ship functions. Learning how to use, upgrade, and work around current bugs will give you a clear advantage in every mission.
FAQ
How do you upgrade reactors in Jump Space?
You upgrade by looting new reactors during missions or repairing your ship. Both options stick permanently to your ship.
What do protected slots on reactors do?
They are designed to prevent shutdown during hazards. Right now they are unreliable but will matter more after fixes.
Can you change reactor layouts in the hangar?
No, you can only adjust reactor layouts during missions, not while in the hub.
Do reactors carry over between runs?
Yes, once installed, reactors stay on your ship as permanent upgrades.
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