Census

The Census does not scan cargo. The Census observes cargo. The Collective draws a distinction that most pilots find academic. Its scanning arrays operate in frequency ranges the Voidborn have never publicly acknowledged, resolving cargo contents through hull plating that other scanners read as opaque. Shield strength is disproportionate to its role — the Collective does not explain why a customs vessel needs combat-grade shielding, and the Census does not volunteer the information.