If you have been exploring the endless universe of No Man’s Sky, you have probably come across locked doors and mysterious containers that require something called an AtlasPass. Many space stations, planetary buildings, and secure storage units stay sealed until you unlock them with the correct version of this item. Getting an AtlasPass is not difficult, but it does require progress, patience, and the right materials.
What Is An AtlasPass In No Man’s Sky?
An AtlasPass is a special key item that unlocks restricted doors and containers across the galaxy. There are three versions:
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AtlasPass v1
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AtlasPass v2
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AtlasPass v3
Each version opens different levels of secure access. Version 1 unlocks basic security doors, usually found in space stations and minor settlements. Versions 2 and 3 unlock higher-tier facilities and more valuable loot containers.
The higher the version, the more advanced the rewards tend to be.
How To Start The Atlas Path Mission
To get your first AtlasPass, you must progress through the main story. Specifically, you need to follow the Atlas Path questline.
Early in the game, you will encounter a character known as Polo aboard the Space Anomaly, officially called Space Anomaly. Polo can direct you toward Atlas Interfaces. These are massive red structures found in star systems across the galaxy.
When you warp between systems, you may detect an Atlas Interface. Visit it and interact with the Atlas to continue the Atlas Path mission. Advancing through this storyline eventually rewards you with the blueprint for AtlasPass v1.
Without progressing through the Atlas Path, you cannot craft the pass.
How To Craft AtlasPass V1
Once you unlock the blueprint, crafting AtlasPass v1 is simple. You will need:
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200 Copper
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1 Microprocessor
Copper is easy to find on many planets. Use your Analysis Visor to locate copper deposits, then mine them with your Terrain Manipulator.
Microprocessors can be crafted or purchased from Galactic Trade Terminals inside space stations.
After gathering the materials:
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Open your inventory.
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Select an empty slot.
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Choose the AtlasPass v1 blueprint.
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Craft it.
The AtlasPass does not get consumed when used. Once you have it in your inventory, it works permanently.
How To Get AtlasPass V2
AtlasPass v2 is not obtained directly from the Atlas Path. Instead, you must unlock its blueprint through Manufacturing Facilities.
Manufacturing Facilities are guarded buildings found on planetary surfaces. To access them:
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Locate them using planetary charts or by scanning from the air.
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Destroy the reinforced door with your Multi-Tool.
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Solve the terminal puzzle inside.
If you answer the puzzle correctly, you can choose a new blueprint as a reward. Use the factory override unit to unlock AtlasPass v2 from the blueprint tree.
Crafting AtlasPass v2 requires more advanced materials, typically including:
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Cadmium
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Microprocessors
Cadmium can be mined in red star systems. You will need a Cadmium Drive installed in your starship to warp there.
How To Get AtlasPass V3
AtlasPass v3 follows the same method as v2. You must unlock it from Manufacturing Facilities using factory override units.
This is the highest level of AtlasPass currently available. It unlocks maximum security doors and rare storage containers.
Materials for AtlasPass v3 often include:
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Emeril
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Advanced components
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Microprocessors
Emeril is found in green star systems, so you will need an Emeril Drive installed in your starship.
By the time you craft v3, you are already well into mid or late-game progression.
Why AtlasPass Is Important
You might wonder whether getting all three versions is necessary. Technically, you can explore much of the galaxy without them. However, AtlasPass doors often hide:
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Extra loot containers
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Valuable crafting materials
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Rare upgrades
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Helpful shortcuts inside space stations
Some rooms also contain lore terminals that expand the story of the universe.
In short, having an AtlasPass increases efficiency and rewards over time.
Tips To Unlock AtlasPass Faster
If you want to speed up the process, follow these strategies:
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Focus on the main Atlas Path early in your playthrough.
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Upgrade your ship drives quickly so you can reach red and green star systems.
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Stockpile copper and chromatic metals.
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Regularly attack Manufacturing Facilities to gather override units.
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Save before entering puzzle terminals in case you fail the answer.
Efficient resource management makes the process much smoother.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many new players make these errors:
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Ignoring the Atlas Path mission for too long.
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Forgetting to carry the AtlasPass in their inventory.
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Attempting high-tier facilities without proper hazard protection.
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Wasting override units on low-value blueprints first.
Plan your blueprint unlock path carefully so you do not delay access to v2 and v3.
