Solar System Exploration 2 Wiki


The Pumpjack is the foundational gas‑extraction structure in Solar System Exploration 2, supplying natural gas for mills, refuelers, and station upgrades. It was originally released as the Methane Miner, later renamed Fracker, before receiving its current name and design in the 20.11 mini‑update.

Appearance[]

The Pumpjack resembles a standard oil pump: mounted atop a concrete base, with a green interface button.

Gas Concentrations[]

Gas deposits are classified into five tiers: Very Low, Low, Medium, High, and Very High. Higher tiers yield faster extraction; lower tiers result in slower gas production. Players commonly use the Pickaxe to detect concentration levels—though note, it reports only for the character's current tile, not under the cursor.

Usage[]

Place the Pumpjack over a gas hotspot and activate it. Connect it to a Depot or Refueler.

  • Frackers can be placed on space colonies,but there's no gas on a dome.

History[]

Version Change Notes
October 10 Wildcard blueprint introduced—spawns Methane Miners
Release 9 Wildcard split into Fracker and Dome
Release 10 Frackers can’t be cashed out
Release 12 Frackers are removed when owner leaves
Patch 12.1 Fracker blueprint icon updated
Patch 14.1 Distance limit for placement reduced
Patch 18.1 Frackers and Drills now descend 5 s; extraction rate stabilized regardless of lag
Mini‑Update 20.11 Rebranded to Pumpjack, new model introduced; gas capacity capped at 100; material requirements removed