The panel is shown, when TCE detecting, that you are currently at a planetary body.
In the center you will find yourself showing the direction, you are flying/driving. All recorded planetary points of interest are shown, when in range.
The map range can be changed using the RANGE button in the top left of the screen. The default is AUTO which will zoom in as you come closer to your target. The range can be fixed by selecting a fixed value from the drop down.
When clicking on the MAP button in the bottom left, the Planetary Map panel will appear and shows your current position on a global scale.
Within the center of the map, clicking any icon for example the leaf icon for plant life, will select that location as the destination. Clicking again will deselect the location.
Mini map with distance selection.
The panel transparency may be changed using the transparency buttons located in the top right of the panel below the X to close the panel.