Newbie Questions

[Dobian]

Just got the game in the mail a couple of days ago. Played a "practice" game of about 50 turns where I colonized four systems, made a first contact, and won a strategic combat. Now that I'm ready to really dive in, I have a few questions (the first of many, I know).

The big one: has anyone mapped out the tech tree for this game? It would be nice to have an idea what to research next. Like in Alpha Centauri you have that big map, plus in-game you get a nice presentation of what techs do for you, and what they lead to.

Mining asteroids: I created a mining ship, sent if off to an asteroid (with lots of minerals), and the maintenance cost of the ship was greater than what it was mining! Suggestions appreciated.

Defense platforms: I built a couple...how do you deploy them? They sit in cargo on the planet. Are they functioning in that state, or do I have to do something with them?

If any or all of these questions have already been covered ad nauseum before, sorry. Just looking for a couple of quick answers. I'll search the forums for strategy tips (have already). Just stuck on a couple of "how to's".