Throughout the game, you'll rely on your scanner to find Elements, as well as relays that point the way to Colony Bases, Manufacturing Facilities, and other such destinations. Therefore, it makes sense to start looking for ways to upgrade your scanning capabilities immediately. Typically, you can find scanner Blueprints in Colony Bases and Manufacturing Facilities, secreted in wall terminals. Obtain the blueprint and then the required components and get to upgrading. It will make everything that comes after that moment go more smoothly.