> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.milliononmars.com/playerguide/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.milliononmars.com/playerguide/encyclopedia/ad-astra-unlimited-resource-encyclopedia/shards/normal-shards.md).

# Normal Shards

![](/files/TPlUWnV8Pufym4MkmmeG)

Normal Shards come in **six rarities**:

* **Common**
* **Uncommon**
* **Rare**
* **Epic**
* **Legendary**
* **Mythic**

**Shards** are used in the process of upgrading your buildings into a higher level. They have to match the same rarity of the building that is being upgraded and match the building type.

For example:

A **Rare Solar Panel Shard** can only be used on a **Rare Solar Panel**.

![](/files/OM0fc9GL4CXXsV74IuGX)![](/files/PAFWTj8wo3i9RO5kXzxe)

More about upgrading buildings:

{% content-ref url="/pages/NCFrkSfQdvbjfxiJpInX" %}
[Shards and Upgrading](/playerguide/buildings-for-your-martian-homestead/shards-and-upgrading.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}