Why deep-space exploration still needs fleet support

Should a spacefaring civilization separate its exploration service from the fleet?

Only partly, because dangerous exploration still needs military protection and is safer with paired or grouped ships.

A separate civilian exploration service would still need protection in unknown or dangerous space. That requirement pulls it toward military organization even when research remains its primary mission. Sending one ship also concentrates risk, while real exploration missions usually use paired or grouped support when entering hazardous areas. Small task groups keep an exploration vessel from having to serve as scout, escort and rescue asset at the same time.