Your first base should make exploration easier, not become a giant construction project. Start with the systems that reduce repeated trips and inventory pressure.
1. Choose convenience over perfection
Pick a location that is easy to recognize, reasonably close to useful resources and safe enough for frequent returns.
2. Build storage before decoration
Early storage solves one of the biggest exploration bottlenecks: carrying too much and forgetting where materials are.
3. Keep power needs simple
Add only the systems you can support reliably. A small base that always works is more useful than an ambitious one with constant power problems.
4. Expand when a new capability needs space
Let depth, vehicles, scanning or crafting needs drive expansion rather than building rooms without a purpose.