Destiny 2: Atlas Skews Week 2 locations

Master Destiny 2’s Tracing the Stars II quest with precise Atlas Skew locations, advanced collection strategies, and expert navigation tips.

Initiating the Tracing the Stars II Quest

To launch into this week’s seasonal challenge, your first destination is the Wayfinder’s Compass located within the H.E.L.M. social space. This device serves as your seasonal hub, distributing weekly quests and tracking your progress. After acquiring the quest marker, proceed through the mysterious portal that materializes nearby, transporting you to Mara Sov’s secluded enclave.

The Awoken queen will provide essential context about the Atlas Skews—these arcane devices are crucial for deciphering the mysteries of the Dreaming City and advancing the seasonal narrative.

Seasoned Guardians should note that this quest follows the same structural pattern as Tracing the Stars I, requiring collection followed by a story mission completion. New players will appreciate that Mara Sov’s dialogue includes helpful exposition about the ongoing conflict with the Taken and the significance of the Dreaming City’s corrupted zones.

If you missed the initial week’s activities, we recommend reviewing our foundational guide to understanding the seasonal artifact mechanics and basic skew collection techniques before proceeding.

Strategic Overview: The Strand Atlas Skew Hunt

This week’s search narrows exclusively to The Strand, a visually distinct region within the Dreaming City characterized by its blend of natural rock formations and Awoken architecture. Unlike last week’s more dispersed collection, this concentrated approach allows for efficient routing if planned correctly.

All five Skews reside within this single zone, making navigation more manageable but requiring precise environmental awareness. The Strand’s multi-level terrain features elevation changes, hidden pathways, and occasional enemy patrols that can complicate collection if you’re not prepared.

Pro Strategy: Load a movement-optimized build before departing. Hunter’s Triple Jump, Titan’s Lion Rampants, or Warlock’s Burst Glide can significantly reduce collection time. Consider bringing long-range weapons to clear enemies from platforms before attempting precision jumps.

Detailed Atlas Skew Locations & Collection Techniques

1. Towering Statue Skew: From The Strand’s primary entrance, immediately veer left along the winding cliffside path. At the first divergence, maintain your leftward trajectory. When presented with a second split, switch to the right branch. You’ll encounter a cluster of moss-covered boulders—ascend the tallest one on the right flank. From this vantage, execute a controlled jump toward the adjacent statue’s outstretched arm. The Skew rests at the pinnacle, requiring a final climb up the statue’s decorative grooves. Common Mistake: Attempting the jump from the ground level often results in falling short; the rock platform is essential for success.

2. Gazebo Statue Skew: Departing the entrance, take an immediate left and descend to the lower path when the route divides. This trail consistently descends toward a stone bridge connecting to an ornate gazebo. Upon arrival, locate the pillar crowning the left staircase. Behind this architectural element rests a substantial, climbable rock. Scale this, then transition to the adjacent taller formation. This elevated position reveals the Skew perched on a ledge that’s invisible from ground level. Advanced Tip: Snipers or Taken Vandals occasionally spawn nearby; clear them before attempting the platforming sequence.

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3. Garden Waterfall Skew: Enter The Strand and execute a sharp right turn. You’ll confront a small contingent of Taken Acolytes—dispatch them quickly to prevent interference. Continue along this ascending trail until you reach a castle-like structure with ornate archways. Enter and immediately ascend the right-hand staircase. This exits into the Gardens of Esila. Hug the right boundary as the path curves upward; the waterfall emerges after the first pronounced bend. The Skew nestles among the stones at the waterfall’s base, partially obscured by mist. Environmental Note: The sound of rushing water increases as you approach, providing an audio cue.

4. Garden Bridge Tree Skew: Follow the identical initial route as the Waterfall Skew (sharp right from entrance). Upon reaching the Gardens of Esila, deliberately bypass the waterfall area and continue straight ahead along the main thoroughfare.

You’ll pass beneath an arched walking bridge, then ascend a stone staircase to a circular platform. Identify the narrow path branching right from this stage—it leads up a precarious incline to a raised platform. Vault over the surrounding low walls and proceed through the gateway directly ahead. The Skew awaits at the base of the prominent, isolated tree in the rear courtyard. Navigation Tip: The tree’s distinctive silhouette against the Dreaming City skyline makes an excellent landmark for orientation.

5. Aphelion’s Rest Skew: Retrace your steps toward the gazebo bridge (as described in Skew #2). Instead of crossing, leap from the bridge’s left side and scan the cliff face for a cave entrance marked with luminous white Awoken symbology. This opening leads to Aphelion’s Rest—a cavern system teeming with Taken forces. Prepare for sustained combat. Adhere to the left wall as you advance through the tunnels. You’ll eventually enter a chamber featuring shattered pillars and a ceremonial brazier. The Skew hovers discreetly behind this fiery basin. Combat Advice: Area-of-effect abilities or weapons excel here for managing the dense enemy groups.

Completing A Hollow Coronation Mission

With all five Atlas Skews secured, your journey returns to the H.E.L.M. Here, you must acquire the ‘A Hollow Coronation’ mission from the quest tracker. This narrative episode transports you back through the portal to the Caliburn Gatehouse—a mysterious space where you’ll deposit the collected Skews into ancient mechanisms.

This story segment expands the Season of the Lost lore, revealing additional details about Mara Sov’s plans and the escalating conflict. Unlike combat-focused missions, this experience emphasizes exploration and interaction with environmental elements. Take time to examine the surroundings, as the Gatehouse contains subtle visual storytelling elements.

Mission Insight: The Gatehouse sequence has no combat requirements, allowing you to focus on the atmospheric storytelling. Pay attention to the dialogue exchanges, as they contain clues about upcoming seasonal developments.

Claiming Your Rewards & Fractethyst Analysis

After concluding the Gatehouse activities, transit back to the H.E.L.M. and interact with the Wayfinder’s Compass to finalize the weekly challenge. Your primary compensation is Fractethyst—a Legendary precision frame shotgun boasting impressive range and consistency.

This weapon features the precision frame archetype, delivering tight pellet spread and enhanced effective distance compared to aggressive frame alternatives. For PvP enthusiasts, Fractethyst can roll with Opening Shot and Slideshot, creating a formidable close-quarters option. PvE players should seek Auto-Loading Holster paired with One-Two Punch for maximum burst damage against majors and minibosses.

Beyond the weapon, you’ll receive seasonal reputation, possible upgrade materials, and progress toward your Season of the Lost title requirements. Completing this quest weekly contributes to unlocking the seasonal artifact’s full potential and earning unique cosmetics.

That concludes this comprehensive guide. With Fractethyst now in your arsenal, you’re better equipped to face the challenges emerging throughout the Season of the Lost.

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