Is there any reason why you force us to have a long range scanner in order to run this script? Often I'm starting the game in a merc cruiser, can't afford a long range scanner, but I sure would like to run the auto-explore script, especially with the auto-trade enabled. I can understand wanting to keep us safe by avoiding planets / fighters, but it would be better to have the option to proceed anyway, even unsafely.
I agree with the aforementioned statement of being able to run auto explore without a holo scanner. Though, I have a couple other things to add. Would it be possible to be able to run auto explore with just a density scanner? (can still avoid anon sectors, and sectors possibly with a user input density level.
Secondly is a lil problem I've ran across, nothing huge, just a bit annoying at times. When running auto-explore, my sector(s) and Terra end up on my avoid list. If I turn off the option to avoid sects. with planets, it usually results in a nasty boom. As I said, just a lil annoying sometimes, having to manually remove several sectors from the avoid list.
With regards to the holo-scanner, i will see if i can not require it. it would probably be handy to run it on density. The reason it is required, is that you can avoid certain items. i can set it to bypass the avoid options if there is no scanner.
With regards to setting terra as an avoid, well... that and your sectors have planets... i can see if i can make it bypass friendly planets.
earth.
If you can't afford a scanner, why not do what I do? Start towards StarDock and as you hit paired ports (and you will hit them) simply pair port trade between them until you get enough for the scanner? If you hit the right ports, you might even be able to make enough cash to max your holds as well as buy the scanners. That would effectively solve your problem. Once you have the scanner, then you can go out auto-exploring.