Hmm I think you got it wrong. On Ningal server I only have stuff in one galaxy. I think I have 2 outposts do far. Well one of the fixes that really did limit a land rush was the fix on unit count -- you can't go into negatives anymore. I think after they hide other players planets, it will be very hard to land rush and will add the stability that many players are looking for.
Also on this server it looks like I've been purposely located at disadvantage, because the closest planets to my home base are 10+ sectors away 0.o
Going back to scouting. I'm using 5 drones because the galaxy is 25x25 so you could just go in circles with the 5 set and have a minim time loss. Also i tried doing it with more than 5 drones and it's becoming rather difficult to manage.
Well hope they will fix the servers soon.
PS: Lee stop tripping over the server power cable! And Zark, server is not a lunch table dude!