As a noob who likes this game, I can agree there are afew design issues. Rather than having a go at the designers, I thought I would share a few ideas.
1. Expeditions- so far the only reason I can see to use this feature is for fleetsave.
I don't see why you cannot encompasses this In the research part of the game where you find different items that unlock items of research.
You find a robot too big to fit into your fleet. Why can you not go back for it when you have a bigger ship.
Actually find things
Release some help files on what type of fleet etc give you the best chance of find things.
2. Have a tiered attack system where fresh meat has a chance
3. Have a tutorial system that is fun and engaging rather that a set of tasks that get you to 25000 as fast as possible. And is not a few tasks that are easy, then tasks that send lambs too slaughter
Put the comics on there own tab/page. I have never seen the relevance.
4. Add other ways to make a living.
Farming - very slow
Pirates- getting almost impossible
Expeditions- more chance of loosing your fleet than any type of reward.

So for me, the game is slowly loosing its appeal. But with a little thought, it could become compelling again. From the figures online, I can see people are leaving the game which is a shame. If everyone has just one great idea and adds it here, the development of this game might go in the right direction.