The firsts encounter can change whole directions in relations.
If u ON Active,u can easy "appear" same as "HOSTILE" : Missile acquisition posture
So BEFORE u use Active,think carefully.AND if u r in a Aliens colony's System..U are UN-welcome.For the firsts years.
When u have reach some good alliances,next u r everywhere welcome..
EDIT: Aliens ships co close,for me,probable r Gunned Armed vessels..so careful.DO NOT open fire firsts..but must r ready.
OR..otherwise most probable r SAME as ur: Gravsurvey:D