Contracts: black box, capture, elimination and ship destruction
Quick answer
Read the selected contract first: extraction, elimination, capture and destruction require different preparation and end conditions.
On this page
Match equipment to the objective
Extraction is a return journey: find the marked black box and plan the route back before picking it up. Carrying it limits your use of other equipment, and retrieving it increases the specimen's aggression. Secure it in the shuttle rather than assuming that simply reaching the bay completes the objective.
Elimination and capture require the specimen-specific weapon shown by the mission's information. Bring a damage weapon for elimination; prepare containment and a button operator for capture. Check the monster guide before starting the engagement.
Do the irreversible action last
Ship destruction involves initiating the engine test and overloading both engines. The second critical engine begins the evacuation countdown. Finish optional looting and agree an escape route before triggering it. Emergency adrenaline supplies help with the run, but do not protect you from attacks.
On HSS Hawking, power also matters for respawns. Activate a capsule once power is available, and recheck power after an EMP. Read mission modifiers before committing: difficulty and modifiers can change the margin for mistakes, so do not assume a remembered timer or resource rule applies to every contract.