Scan Pulse

“	You can boost your sensors to unveil your surroundings and detect hidden paths.	„
—Yoshio Sakamoto

Scan Pulse in Aeion Ability Artifact form.

Scan Pulse is the first Aeion ability in Metroid: Samus Returns. It is acquired from an Aeion Ability Artifact in the Surface area. When used, Samus is enveloped in a blue orb which releases outward in a pulse, revealing Map data over a 9x9 square range around her, and breakable walls, floors or blocks within that range will begin flashing and beeping for 10 seconds. Pressing A before the pulse is released cancels use of the ability. As with other Aeion abilities, using the Scan Pulse consumes Aeion. If a Metroid is in a nearby room when the Scan Pulse is used, the creature will emit a roar which through close listening can be used to locate the titular creature. This ability serves roughly the same purpose as the Scan Visor and X-Ray Visor from the Prime Series, and the X-Ray Scope in Super Metroid.

Use of the Scan Pulse leaves a permanent mark on the Map screen, showing the areas that were scanned with the Aeion ability.

Official data

Metroid: Samus Returns boxart

"Briefly reveal nearby breakable objects and map info."

Manual

"Select with [D-pad up]. The surrounding area will be revealed on the touch screen map, temporarily showing the location of breakable blocks.

• Expends Aeion energy when used."

Aeion Abilities data

"Scan Pulse uses Aeion to scan an area. Use it to reveal map information and the location of breakable blocks. Press [D-Pad up] to equip. Press [A] while equipped to activate. Cancel by pressing [A] again before the pulse is released."

Trivia

• Before the Scan Pulse is acquired, a slower version of the classic Surface of SR388 theme can be heard in the first caverns of the planet. After the Scan Pulse is obtained, the theme picks up in speed and gains synth instruments, sounding closer to the original version from Metroid II: Return of Samus.

Gallery

A Chozo statue with the Scan Pulse symbol

The Scan Pulse in use.

Aeion Abilities Data.

A section of the Map over which the Scan Pulse has been used.