The latest Elite Dangerous update introduces HOTAS support for console players via Nvidia GeForce Now, alongside the release of the improved Type 11 Prospector mining ship and rewards from the concluded Distant Worlds 3 community goal. The massive Distant Worlds 3 expedition continues to captivate over 8,000 players with its stunning environments and new newsletter, highlighting the game’s enduring community engagement.
In this edition of Witchspace News for January 23, 2026, several exciting updates for Elite Dangerous were highlighted. Nvidia has announced the introduction of HOTAS (Hands On Throttle and Stick) support for console players using the GeForce Now cloud streaming service. This new feature debuted with support for the Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS system, enabling console players to enjoy a more immersive and precise control experience previously limited to keyboard, mouse, or traditional controllers. This development broadens access to Elite Dangerous across various devices including phones, tablets, and legacy PCs.
The community goal focused on gathering resources for the Distant Worlds 3 deep space construction project recently concluded, rewarding top participants with credits and a special class 5 pre-engineered cargo rack that increases cargo capacity from 32 to 43 tons. This module is easily accessible via stored modules for a small fee, making it a valuable upgrade for miners and traders alike. This ties nicely into the release of the Type 11 Prospector, a mining-focused ship that has just become available for in-game credits after its early access period.
The Type 11 Prospector initially had a rocky launch but has since been improved significantly by Frontier Developments. It features a unique mining volley repeater gun capable of extracting larger and denser ore chunks more efficiently, alongside support for the powerful class 5A Mk2 Mining Controller which allows for 14 fast collector limpets. These features make the Type 11 a highly efficient mining vessel, especially when paired with engineered cargo racks, appealing to players looking to maximize their mining productivity.
Distant Worlds 3, a massive player-driven expedition event, has attracted over 8,000 participants and recently reached its first destination known as the “Planet of Death.” This planet orbits a white dwarf star so closely that players can witness its surface being regularly cauterized by the star’s plasma cone, creating a visually stunning and dangerous environment. The event has garnered media attention, including coverage by Space.com, highlighting the ongoing vitality and community engagement in Elite Dangerous more than a decade after its launch.
Lastly, the first edition of the Distant Worlds 3 newsletter, “Between Waypoints,” was released, offering a professionally produced magazine-style companion filled with feature articles, roleplay content, and tributes to notable community members who recently passed away. The newsletter aims to enhance the experience of both expedition participants and other players, providing a rich source of content for the Elite Dangerous community. Viewers were encouraged to share their plans and experiences with the new HOTAS support, the Type 11 Prospector, and the ongoing Distant Worlds 3 expedition.