How about doing something simple like scanning random cells while out of focus. I mean already the optimal scanning strategy isn't based on actual in-game physics or rules. It is almost completely governed by meta-game rules (The idiosyncrasies of the way time warp works). So making it work 'less realistically' isn't really. The way it works now is like designing a fps mechanic around the way the pause menu works. I think making it less tedious, even if it isn't 'realistic' would be a net gain. You still need to do the same stuff (get a scanner into orbit of the body), minus leaving the game time warping while you sleep. And the end result is the same (a scanned planet).
