TIL you actually can track synthesis targets with the scanner. These simaris wisps make a trail that lead right to the target but you can only see them with the scanner. :
Synthesis Scanner - do not highlight targets after update - PC Bugs - Warframe Forums
For some reason my Synthesis Scanner started ranking up as I scanned and killed enemies, complete with on-screen rank up notification. : r/Warframe
Warframe Synthesis Scanner - How does it work? | GameWatcher
Synthesis scanner disappeared from inventory on Defeat Chroma - Mission - Warframe Forums
Warframe: How to Use the Synthesis Scanner | How to Synthesize 3 Elite Arid Lancers(The New Strange) - YouTube
Warframe Synthesis Scanner - How does it work? | GameWatcher