There are "uncharted" systems, which have zero settlement of any kind. Exploring these feels like being in nature, quiet and mostly pleasant.
Then there are "abandoned" systems, which have most signs of sentient habitation, but... nobody's around. The quiet here quickly becomes creepy. Trade platforms are usually full of activity, but this abandoned one feels like the Korvax left in a hurry. Like driving through a ghost town, stopping to get out and look around for a bit.