what does the "explored #" on flickr mean?

'explored' means that it has been found through the explore feature on the site.

http://www.flickr.com/explore/

The number usually refers to the ranking on the explore page, which you find through this tool (I think):

http://bighugelabs.com/scout.php

It's when the powers that b put your picture on the "front page" of the website. It's this little magazine within Flickr where the idea is you can come and find the best of the best; see what is out there. You explore the website.

If I care to make myself a world of enemies right now I'll say it's not a great honor in my opinion. It's about what's hip at that moment. Not what is great art. I don't think many people can tell the Flickr queens apart. Don't get me wrong they are great photographers and the one's I've spoken with are great people but as far as art goes it's another half naked 20 something curled up looking sad in a dark room- that old thing. Show my something between 800 and 1700 ad and I can tell you what year, city state and maybe the artist. Show me something from the explore archives and pthhh if I know.

There is a community within Flickr called "F*** explore, follow me."