These are the 'currency' of the universe. They are earned through trading. i.e. Selling "Goods" and "Minerals" at stations.
They can be spent on ship repairs and upgrades.
Credits are the closest thing to a 'score' in this game.
Best I can figure Cr1 is worth about $10 in 2026 prices.
When docked at a station It is possible to trade 'Minerals and "Goods". This is done using:
Each system has a unique 'technology level','magic level',''law level' and 'abundance of minerals'.
The selling price is dependant on the 'base price' of the mineral and it's abundance in the selling system (rare minerals command higher prices).
It is thus a good idea to mine in a system where a mineral is common and then sell in one where it's scarce.
The game does not know where you are going to trade. When in flight the 'Cargo Menu' displays the 'base price'. Once docked it shows the 'in system' price.
Each type of goods has two 'prices':
Goods can only be bought in systems with a high enough 'tech/magic Level' to manufacture them.
Goods sale values are higher systems that lack the 'tech/magic Level' necessary to maufacture the component.
Goods are legal up to a certain ''law level'.
In addition to 'buying' components, into the bay, they can also be 'Mounted' i.e. installed directly into the ship.
'Hulls' are a little different. The ship only has a single hull. It can be 'upgraded' via the 'Purchase Menu'.