Hey, so I am new to the game and just recently got my ship destroyed then they destroyed my escape pod. I'm not really sure what to do next to build back up to where I was in the game. If anyone has any advice I would really appreciate it.

It depends on how you got blown up, but if you are playing against experienced players or strong enemies, or in a universe where someone left excessive fighters, mines, etc., you very well may be better off finding another game--or not wait 5 years for someone to respond and apparently quit.