Season 5, Episode 2
Stardate 45047.2 (2368)

Episode 101 of 176 Released in The Next Generation
Episode 101 of 176 Produced in The Next Generation
Production Number: 40275-202
Original airdate: September 30, 1991

Directed by Winrich Kolbe
Story by Philip LaZebnik and Joe Menosky
Teleplay by Joe Menosky

Guide Sections

Synopsis
Social Commentary
Strengths
Flaws
Additional Thoughts
Memorable Quotes
Remember
Final Word
Rating
Guest Cast

Synopsis

A signal has been received from a ship belonging to the mysterious race known as the Children of Tama. The Enterprise is dispatched to the uninhabited planet of El Adril, where the Tamarian ship is waiting with hopes of opening communications. The Tamarians and the Federation have encountered one another a number of times before, but communication has always proven impossible due to the unusual nature of the Tamarian language. (They were called “incomprehensible” by one Starfleet captain.)

Once the Enterprise reaches El Adril, Picard and the Tamarian captain, Dathon, attempt to communicate. When this fails, the Tamarians beam them both down to the planet where they come under attack by some type of energy creature. Apparently this was planned by Dathon in the hope that shared hardship would bring them together.

Sure enough, in the end Picard and Dathon reach one another; but not before Dathon is mortally wounded. Picard is rescued from the energy creature by the Enterprise crew just before he too is killed. The knowledge of the Tamarians he gained on the planet helps him stop a brewing battle that would certainly have left the Enterprise in pieces. It also leaves him in admiration of Dathon, who gave his life in the hope of communication with those different from him.

Social Commentary

Most Star Trek episodes deliver a social message, and “Darmok” delivers an especially strong one; and does so in an elegant way. As English speakers, we generally take for granted the fact that no matter where we go we will be able to communicate with someone. It may be only one person in a village of 100, but more often than not someone speaks some English. This is a tragic American conceit—that the world should learn their language—but it is nevertheless true.

Still, every now and then we are made aware of the fact that even on our own little planet there can be great difficulties in communication. This can stem from the obvious—language differences—and from the less obvious—cultural and ideological differences. Our experiences over the centuries have allowed us to open up channels of communication with most of our world, but what would happen if we were faced with something truly alien? And what does it feel like when you are caught in a situation where you just can’t seem to get anything across?

In “Darmok” we find an extremely interesting and original approach to language. Star Trek has been ridiculed time and again for the fact that all the aliens our heroes encounter speak English. Of course, we are told that they don’t really speak English and that the Universal Translator is just helping them out. But that translator sure seems to work too quickly sometimes, and even keeping in mind the constraints of a one-hour TV show doesn’t always help you overlook the implausibility.

As I said in the synopsis, the Tamarians were known to Starfleet as incomprehensible. Why is that? The Universal Translator can interpret insect clicks, so what could the Tamarians throw at it that would render it useless?

Well, as it turns out the Universal Translator has no problem interpreting the words—it’s just that the words convey no meaning to the Enterprise crew. The Tamarians, as Picard soon learns down on the planet, speak in metaphor. In other words, they cite examples from their own mythology to convey their message. Data called it “narrative imagery.”

One of the first examples whose meaning we learn is “Timba, his arms wide.” This means ‘give, offer.’ It is spoken by Dathon when he offers Picard a knife and when he gives Picard fire at night.

The very first phrase we learn, however, is “Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra.” But the meaning of this phrase does not become clear for some time. After Dathon is wounded by the energy creature, he and Picard attempt to communicate by the fire. Dathon restates this phrase over and over, frustration showing in his face as Picard continues to be unable to respond.

Picard, however, is an intelligent and resourceful man and he soon puts the pieces together. He says to Dathon, “Timba, his arms wide. Give me more about Darmok.” Dathon then continues with a series of statements. He says “Darmok on the ocean.” Picard draws a circle in the dirt and realizes that “Darmok on the ocean” means ‘alone.’ Dathon adds, “Tanagra on the ocean.” Picard figures out that Tanagra is an island. Then comes “Jalad on the ocean.” This adds meaning to “…on the ocean” and Picard realizes that Dathon is telling him that Darmok and Jalad are two people who came to the island of Tanagra separately. The additional phrase “The beast at Tanagra” shows that Darmok and Jalad faced a challenge together. Finally, Dathon concludes with “Darmok and Jalad on the ocean.” He has shown that the two came separately, but left together. He has created the situation on the planet to bring himself and Picard together just as the Beast of Tanagra once brought together two men from Tamarian history (or mythology).

Dathon does not survive his wounds and Picard returns to the Enterprise. Both his crew and the Tamarians are delighted to learn that he can communicate somewhat in the metaphorical language. To report Dathon’s death to the Tamarians, he says, “Tamak, the River Tamak, in winter.” This seems to be an allusion to the stillness of ice. The Tamarians bow their heads when they hear this. He then offers them Dathon’s dagger saying, “Timba, his arms wide.” The Tamarians motion for him to keep the dagger and reply, “Timba at rest.”

Additional phrases heard in the episode include:

“Shaka, when the walls fell.”
(Apparently a reference to impending death or end.)

“Sokath, his eyes uncovered.”
(This means ‘to understand.’)

“Keias’s children, their faces wet.”
(This seems to express injury.)

“Senda, his face black, his eyes red.”
(This is said by Dathon in response to Picard’s inquiry about his condition. It seems to express severe injury.)

Strengths

“Darmok” does what the best SF should and couches an important social message in a far-off situation. This allows the message to be delivered effectively and elegantly. The linguistic approach taken in the episode makes for a unique story, certainly one of the standout episodes of the entire Star Trek canon.

Flaws

This is a strong episode, and there aren’t many flaws worth pointing out. The rate at which Picard comes to understand the Tamarian language is a bit too quick, but of course it has to be compressed into a one-hour TV show. Also, the fact that power is restored on the Enterprise immediately after Picard and the Tamarians conclude their communication spoils the moment. The Enterprise had sustained heavy damage and had lost shields and primary power. Data’s timely “power has been restored,” brightening of the lights, and hum of the engines may have emphasized that all was now well between the Federation and the Tamarians, but it was highly unrealistic.

Additional Thoughts

At the very end of the episode, Picard reads the Homeric Hymns in his ready room. Riker asks him about this and he says, “More familiarity with our own mythology might help us relate to theirs.” Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra is essentially Gilgamesh and Enkidu at Uruk from the “Epic of Gilgamesh,” a Mesopotamian poem and one of the earliest works from our own literary history.

Picard’s point is that the principles of civilizations have more in common than they have differences. Certainly on our own planet this is true. When it comes to alien cultures it’s hard to tell what, if anything, we might have in common. But Picard isn’t talking about the Tamarians, really. He’s talking about how we as humans approach our fellow man. We may have different skin colors and speak different languages, but our commonality far outweighs any difference we might find. And knowing who we are can help us better understand those on the other side of the river

Memorable Quotes

“A single word can lead to tragedy. One word mispoken or misunderstood.” —Troi to Data

“All our technology and experience, our Universal Translator, our years in space, contact with more alien cultures than I can remember….and we still can’t even say ‘hello’ to these people.” —Troi to Data

Remember

Ensign Lefler. Though merely another body in engineering in “Darmok” she will play a key role in a future episode.

Final Word

Sometimes Star Trek is just fun, and sometimes it’s deep. It’s the serious examination of humanity that has allowed the franchise to endure for so many years. If you’re making a list of episodes that exemplify the very best of Star Trek, “Darmok” is a must for that list.

Rating

 (8 out of 10)

Guest Stars

Colm Meaney as O’Brien
Paul Winfield as Captain Dathon
Richard Allen as Tamarian First Officer
Ashley Judd as Ensign Lefler

Season 7, Episode 25
Stardate 47988.1

Episode 176 of 176 Released in The Next Generation
Episode 176 of 176 Released in The Next Generation
Production Number: 40277-747
Original airdate: May 23, 1994

Directed by Winrich Kolbe
Story by Brannon Braga and Ronald D. Moore

Guide Sections

Synopsis
Social Commentary
Strengths
Flaws
Additional Thoughts
Memorable Quotes
Remember
Final Word
Rating
Guest Cast

Synopsis

Captain Picard finds that he has been moving back and forth through time. Sometimes he is in the past, sometimes in the future, sometimes in the present; and he has no idea why. A spatial anomaly is reported in the same star system in the past and the present, leading Picard to set out on a search for the cause. As one might expect, none other than Q shows up about halfway through and informs Picard that the spatial anomaly was caused by the Captain and that it will destroy the human race. With the help of his crew—in the past, present, and future—Picard must unravel the mystery and once again save humanity.

Social Commentary

The central message of this two-hour episode is that mankind must open its mind to new possibilities in order to survive. If you look at our society today, we are locked in to old ways of thinking. We believe that we must rely on fossil fuels for energy, for example. Of course not all of us believe this—and there are technology barriers to overcome—but on the whole, as a global species, we are comfortable with the tried and true. Plus it makes great business sense. Our leaders exhibit relatively little interest in true advancement.

This point is best illustrated in this episode through the following dialogue between Picard and Q, which I list here in length because it is one of the best exchanges in all of Star Trek. The conversation takes place in the same courtroom that we saw in the first episode of the series, “Encounter at Farpoint.” It shows what could ultimately happen to us (figuratively speaking) if we do not wake up to the challenges that face us and find solutions. Picard begins:

“The last time that I stood here was seven years ago.”

“Seven years ago, how little do you mortals understand time. Must you be so linear, Jean Luc?”

“You accused me of being the representative of a barbarous species.”

“I believe my exact words were a ‘dangerous, savage child race.’”

“We demonstrated to you that mankind had become peaceful and benevolent. You agreed and you let us go on our way. Now why am I standing here again?”

“Oh, you’d like me to connect the dots for you, lead you from A to B to C so that your puny mind could comprehend? How boring. They’d be so much more entertained if you just tried to figure it out.”

Following laughter from those in the court, Q gets to the heart of the matter…

“The trial never ended, Captain. We never reached a verdict; but now we have. You’re guilty.”

“Of what?”

“Of being inferior. Seven years ago I said we would be watching you and we have been, hoping that your apelike race would demonstrate some growth, give some indication that your minds had room for expansion. But what have we seen instead? You worrying about Commander Riker’s career, listening to Counselor Troi’s pedantic psychobabble, indulging Data in his witless exploration of humanity.”

“We’ve journeyed to countless new worlds, we’ve contacted new species. We have expanded our understanding of the universe.”

“In your own paltry, limited way. You have no idea how far you still have to go. But instead of using the last seven years to expand and grow, you have squandered them.”

“We are what we are and we’re doing the best we can. It is not for you to set the standards by which we should be judged.”

“Oh but it is, and we have. Time may be eternal, Captain, but our patience is not. It’s time to put an end to your trek through the stars, make room for other more worthy species.”

If you take this out of the SF context and put it in simple language, what does it say? It says that mother nature may be the judge who finds us unworthy of existence. Millions are starving to death on our planet, we are stripping the Earth of all valuable resources, we suffer water shortages, power shortages, we pour huge amounts of money into wars instead of trying to help our species. How long do we think this planet is going to last? We have so much potential if only we wanted to realize it. This is what Q is trying to tell Picard.

As the episode goes on, Picard relives his past—though in an alternate timeline—and lives an interesting future in which the Enterprise crew has grown apart. It all makes for a very intriguing story that won TNG one of its two Hugo Awards. All of this shuffling through time, however, is for the sake of proving a point to Picard. Q wants to convince the Captain that the challenge awaiting humanity is far greater than that of the past. As technology advances it is all too easy to think that the hardest days are behind us. As a society we become stagnant.

At the end of the episode, when Picard has succeeded in unraveling the puzzle and has repaired the tear in space-time that caused the anomaly, Q delivers his message:

“The Continuum didn’t think you had it in you, Jean Luc. But I knew you did.”

“You’re saying it worked? We collapsed the anomaly?”

“Is that all this meant to you? Just another spatial anomaly, just another day at the office?”

“Did it work?”

“Well, you’re here aren’t you? You’re talking to me aren’t you?”

“What about my crew?”

“‘The anomaly, my ship, my crew.’ I suppose you’re worried about your fish. Well, if it puts your mind at ease you’ve saved humanity… once again.”

“Thank you.”

“For what?”

“You had a hand in helping me get out of this.”

“I was the one that got you into it. A directive from the Continuum. The part about the helping hand, though, was my idea.”

“I sincerely hope that this is the last time that I find myself here.”

“You just don’t get it do you, Jean Luc. The trial never ends. We wanted to see if you had the ability to expand your mind and your horizons. And for one brief moment you did.”

“When I realized the paradox.”

“Exactly. For that one fraction of a second you were open to options that you had never considered. That is the exploration that awaits you. Not mapping stars and studying nebulae, but charting the unknown possibilities of existence.”

“Q, what is it that you’re trying to tell me?”

[Q begins to whisper into Picard’s ear, but stops.]

“You’ll find out.”

The conversation ends with that cryptic response. The challenges and wonders that await us are amazing. From our position in the early 21st century we must still overcome enormous problems here at home before we can journey out to the stars and explore the wonders of the universe. Q’s message, however, is just as applicable to the 21st century as it is to the 24th. Expanding our minds and searching for new ways of doing things is our ticket to eternity. Without it humanity will die right here on the world upon which it was born. It’s not about material things like stars and planets, it’s about mindset—a way of thinking.

Strengths

The team of Brannon Braga and Ronald D. Moore have woven a captivating fabric that is well paced and pulls in the viewer. The tie-in to the very first episode of the series brought TNG full circle in a way that I still find amazing to this day. The message is couched well in the mystery of the anti-time eruption and the viewer is slowly fed the pieces necessary to unravel both. There is a heap of great dialogue in “All Good Things…” Besides the overriding message about opening our eyes and expanding our minds, there’s stuff here about friendship, regrets, and how the smallest decisions affect our future. Plus John de Lancie is brilliant, as usual.

Flaws

A lot has been said about this episode and the sometimes sloppy nature of the editing. Really there isn’t much that the non-nitpicker would find fault with. However, there is one point that is so important to the resolution of the anomaly problem—and which is so wrong—that one can’t help but notice. Picard, Data, and Geordi finally come to the realization that they caused the tear in space-time in the future when they used the tachyon pulse to scan for the non-existent anomaly. In the present Data says:

“This is very unusual. It appears that our tachyon pulse is converging with two other tachyon pulses at the center of the anomaly. The two other pulses have the exact same amplitude modulation as our own. It is as if all three pulses originated from the Enterprise.”

To which Picard replies: “Three pulses from three different time periods converging at one point in space…”

Then we cut to the future and Picard wonders into Ten Forward with this information. He finds Riker, Beverly, Data, and Geordi at a table. This is where Braga and Moore really confuse things:

“Will, Will, I know why it’s happening. I know what’s causing the anomaly. We have to go back….Damn it Will, I know why it’s happening! We caused the anomaly with a tachyon pulse. It happened three times, Will. We did it in three different time periods….the tachyon pulses, they were used in the same spot in three different time periods. Don’t you see? When the tachyon pulse used… I mean when the Pasteur used the tachyon pulse… then everything started, Will. We set everything in motion. It’s like the chicken and the egg, Will, the chicken and the egg. We think it started in the past, but it didn’t. It started right here in the future!”

So if you haven’t figured out what’s wrong yet, I’ll tell you. The premise is that three tachyon pulses from three time periods—each with the same amplitude modulation—created a tear in space-time. The problem is that the future pulse was not emitted by the Enterprise but rather by the Pasteur. This means that only two pulses have the same amplitude modulation and the third pulse, the future one, has a different modulation. (This is implied by Data’s statement that “It is as if all three pulses originated from the Enterprise.”)

The future Picard, however, got it right.

Additional Thoughts

The Next Generation is often criticized for overdosing on technobabble; and “All Good Things…” certainly does this at times. While I can completely understand the complaints. As a fan of general SF and it’s role as a vehicle for social commentary and self examination I believe it is important to balance the tech-and-science elements and the pure story elements. While the anti-time eruption and all the tachyon talk about the cause and the solution can make your head spin at times, I do believe that the real message cuts through it all. Perhaps it’s the performances of John de Lancie and Patrick Stewart that make it all work. In any case, this is one of those rare instances when all the elements—both tangible and intangible—come together to create something than transcends greatness.

Memorable Quotes

“Goodbye, Jean Luc, I’m going to miss you. You had such potential. But then again, all good things must come to an end.” —Q just before the destruction of the Enterprise

“These are all very good questions, and perhaps I will find answers to them in the past.” —Picard to his present-day crew

“It’s like the chicken and the egg, Will, the chicken and the egg. We think it started in the past, but it didn’t. It started right here in the future!” —Picard to the future Riker

“That is the exploration that awaits you. Not mapping stars and studying nebulae, but charting the unknown possibilities of existence.” —Q to Picard

Remember

Q’s message to Picard. It sums up all of Star Trek from “The Cage” to where we are today.

Final Word

“All Good Things…” is the crowning achievement of Star Trek: The Next Generation. In my book it tops the list as not only the best TNG episode but the best Trek period. It perfectly embodies TNG and sums up the series in a way that no other finale did. I would say if you only see one then this is it. But you’d better watch “Encounter at Farpoint” first to get the full impact of what Braga and Moore have done.

Rating

 (10 out of 10)

Guest Stars

John de Lancie as Q
Andreas Katsulas as Tomalak
Clyde Kusatsu as Nakamura
Patti Yasutake as Alyssa Ogawa
Special Guest StarsEdit
Denise Crosby as Tasha Yar
Colm Meaney as O’Brien
Pamela Kosh as Jessel
Tim Kelleher as Lt. Gaines
Alison Brooks as Ensign Chilton
Stephen Matthew Garvin as an ensign
Majel Barrett as Computer Voice

Episode 48

A Federation astrophysicist joins the Enterprise on a mission to the Kavis Alpha sector to study a massive stellar explosion and deploy a special probe that he designed. But things go wrong when the ship and the mission are threatened by nanites released from Wesley’s science project, and Data must act as a liaison to this unexpected life form. 

The Ensigns of Command

Episode 49

When the Enterprise receives the first contact from the Sheliak in 111 years, Picard and his crew are sent on a diplomatic mission to evacuate 15,000 people from the human colony on Tau Cygna V before the Sheliak arrive to exterminate the population.

The Survivors

Episode 50

While en route to the Federation colony on Delta Rana IV, the Enterprise receives a distress signal and finds the devastated planet and a mysterious house containing two elderly botanists. The crew must unravel the mystery of why these two scientists have survived.

Who Watches the Watchers?

Episode 51

When the holographic wall of the Federation observation post on Mintaka III fails, a society of proto-Vulcan Bronze Age humanoids become aware of their advanced observers and come to believe that Captain Picard is their god. The crew must work to avoid damaging this primitive society.

The Bonding

Episode 52

An accident on an away team mission results in the death of the mother of 12-year-old Jeremy Aster. Worf decides to take the young boy under his wing, feeling a connection since he was also orphaned as a child. Things become more complicated when Jeremy’s mother suddenly reappears.

Booby Trap

Episode 53

While investigating the remains of a Promellian battle cruiser, the Enterprise falls victim to the same booby trap that snared the alien ship 1,000 years ago. Geordi must use an unorthodox method to find a way to free the Enterprise before energy reserves run out.

The Enemy

Episode 54

The Enterprise receives a distress call from the neutral zone and finds Romulans in need of help. The mission becomes more complicated when La Forge and one of the Romulans become trapped on the inhospitable planet, while Worf finds himself the only donor who can save the life of an injured enemy.

The Price

Episode 55

When the only known stable wormhole is discovered in the Barzan System the Enterprise plays host to rights negotiations. But the bidding parties decide to play dirty and Geordi and Data find that the Barzan Wormhole may not be quite what it seems.

The Vengeance Factor

Episode 56

A group called the Gatherers have been conducting raids in the Acamar System and the Enterprise is sent to mediate. As they attempt to put an end to the raids, Picard and his crew find that the attacks stem from a dispute that is far older and deeper than anyone expected.

The Defector

Episode 57

A Romulan scout ship arrives at outpost Sierra VI carrying a pilot who requests Federation asylum. Putting the Enterprise in danger by entering the Neutral Zone, Picard learns from the defector that the Romulans may be planning a new military offensive against the Federation.

The Hunted

Episode 58

While on a diplomatic mission to Angosia III, the Enterprise crew encounters an escaped prisoner who wants to undermine the planet’s application for Federation membership by shedding light on its shameful treatment of war veterans.

The High Ground

Episode 59

On a humanitarian mission to Rutia IV, members of the Enterprise crew become caught in the middle of a terrorist attack and Dr. crusher is taken prisoner. The separatists accuse the Federation of siding with the planetary government and Picard must find a way to free Beverly.

Déjà Q

Episode 60

In the midst of a planetary crisis on Bre’el IV, Q suddenly appears on the Enterprise bridge. The crew immediately suspects Q of being behind the crisis but finds that their omnipotent foe has been stripped of his powers by the Continuum.

A Matter of Perspective

Episode 61

An explosion onboard the Tanuga IV science station kills the station’s director just as Commander Riker beams back to the Enterprise. Tanugan security forces accuse Riker of murder. Meanwhile Geordi and Data must unravel a puzzling energy mystery that threatens the Enterprise.

Yesterday’s Enterprise

Episode 62

When the Enterprise-C is accidentally sent into the future the timeline is changed and the Federation finds itself in the midst of a war with the Klingons, a war that it is losing. Guinan urges Picard to find a way to correct what she claims are changes to the timeline.

The Offspring

Episode 63

Inspired by the work of his creator, Data attempts to create an android himself in an effort to perpetuate his species. At first successful, Data’s daughter, Lal, joins the other children on the ship. But things don’t go as planned as malfunctions begin to appear in Lal’s positronic brain.

Sins of the Father

Episode 64

As part of the Federation-Klingon exchange program, a Klingon named Kurn joins the Enterprise crew. But Kurn has more than just cultural exchange on his mind when he reveals to Worf that they are brothers and their father is innocent of treason.

Allegiance

Episode 65

Picard vanishes from the Enterprise and finds himself trapped in a small locked room with three other prisoners, each of a different race. He must unravel the mystery of their captor to gain his freedom and return to the Enterprise.

Captain’s Holiday

Episode 66

On a rare vacation, Picard arrives for a week on Risa and meets a love interest named Vash. The chance to relax is cut short, however, when Vash turns out to be an archaeologist who is being trailed by two Vorgons claiming to be security officers from the 27th century.

Tin Man

Episode 67

A Betazoid Federation emissary embarks on a mission aboard the Enterprise to establish contact with Tin Man, a life form that appears to be an organic spaceship. The mission takes an unexpected turn when the Romulans intervene.

Hollow Pursuits

Episode 68

Growing unhappiness with Barclay’s performance leads to the discovery that the lieutenant is living a double life through holodeck simulations featuring his shipmates. The shocking programs are in stark contrast to his self-esteem problems in real life.

The Most Toys

Episode 69

When a shuttlecraft carrying Data explodes the Enterprise crew believes he is dead. A collector of rarities, however, has captured Data and plans to add him to his collection. Data works to facilitate an escape while Geordi attempts to trace the cause of the explosion.

Sarek

Episode 70

Spock’s father and the Vulcan Ambassador, Sarek, come aboard the Enterprise to help establish relations between the Federation and the Legaran. Emotions undermine the negotiations, however, when Sarek becomes unable to control a rare illness.

Ménage à Troi

Episode 71

Following a trade conference on Betazed, Troi, Riker, and Lwaxana are kidnapped by Ferengi who were serving as delegates at the conference. DaiMon Tog claims that he has romantic feelings for Lwaxana but there is more to his plans than love.

Transfigurations

Episode 72

The Enterprise crew rescue a severely injured alien who they name John Doe. When the alien begins exhibiting unusual powers and mutations it is discovered that he is one of the first of a race undergoing an evolutionary change.

The Best of Both Worlds, Part I

Episode 73

When a Federation colony is wiped out by an unknown force, Starfleet suspects that the Borg have finally reached Federation space. The Enterprise is sent to investigate and finds that they are no match for the Borg, who take Captain Picard prisoner.

Episode 26

When the Enterprise crosses paths with an unusual form of energy, Troi discovers that she is pregnant. Soon Troi gives birth to a child who ages rapidly, providing the new Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Pulaski, with her first challenge aboard the 1701-D.

Where Silence Has Lease

Episode 27

While on a charting missions, the Enterprise encounters a hole in space where there is nothing but blackness. Soon strange events begin to occur and the ship comes under attack by Nagilum, a being who puts the crew through tests for its own curiosity.

Elementary, Dear Data

Episode 28

Data and Geordi take to the holodeck to participate in a Sherlock Holmes mystery only to find a greater challenge than expected in Holmes’s nemesis James Moriarty, a computer-generated foe who’s curiosity transcends the story when he learns that he’s a hologram.

The Outrageous Okona

Episode 29

The Enterprise rescues a cargo ship captain in the Omega Sagitta system but discovers that he is more than he appears. When alien ships intercept the Enterprise, Picard finds himself caught in the middle of this Captain Okona’s personal feuds.

Loud as a Whisper

Episode 30

On a mission to deliver the famous deaf mediator Riva to the planet Solais V, the Enterprise crew become involved in negotiations between two sides of a bitter planetary war. But when tragedy befalls Riva the negotiations threaten to break down. 

The Schizoid Man

Episode 31

Receiving a distress call from Gravesworld, the Enterprise races to provide medical assistance to Dr. Ira Graves, one of the Federation’s greatest minds and a man who claims to be Data’s grandfather. But assistance takes an unexpected twist as Graves eyes immortality. 

Unnatural Selection

Episode 32

After intercepting the USS Lantree in response to a distress signal, the away team beams aboard to find that the entire crew has died of old age. Dr. Pulaski must then lead an effort to prevent the spread of this aging disease, beginning with Darwin Station. 

A Matter of Honor

Episode 33

As part of a Federation-Klingon exchange program, Riker becomes the first Starfleet officer to serve on a Klingon ship when he becomes first officer aboard the Pagh. When the Klingons believe the Enterprise has sabotaged their ship, Riker’s loyalties are tested.

The Measure of a Man

Episode 34

Data’s freedom and position in Starfleet are threatened when he is ordered to transfer to Starbase 173 to be disassembled and studied. Determined to save Data, Picard challenges the orders and must prove in a hearing that Data is a sentient being.

The Dauphin

Episode 35

During a diplomatic mission to transport Salia, the leader of the war-torn planet Daled IV, back to her homeworld Wesley experiences his first romance as he falls in love with the young princess who is not quite what she seems.

Contagion

Episode 36

The Enterprise responds to a distress call from her sister ship, the Yamato, only to witness its destruction. Soon Picard finds himself in a face off with Romulans while his own ship becomes infected with a computer virus of ancient Iconian origin.

The Royale

Episode 37

While investigating the wreckage of a 21st century NASA spacecraft in the star system Theta 116, Riker, Worf, and Data become trapped in the Hotel Royale where they must succesfully play out the plot line of a bad novel in order to escape.

Time Squared

Episode 38

While traveling to the Endicor system the crew of the Enterprise encounters a duplicate of their own El-Baz shuttlecraft and Captain Picard that have been sent back in time from six hours in the future by a mysterious energy vortex.

The Icarus Factor

Episode 39

With an offer of his own command on the table Commander Riker and the Enterprise travel to Starbase Montgomery for a briefing. Things take an uncomfortable turn, however, when the strategist turns out to be Riker’s estranged father.

Pen Pals

Episode 40

When Data begins exchanging subspace communications with a little girl on the pre-warp planet Drema IV he inadvertently breaks the Prime Directive and places Picard in a difficult situation when geological instability threatens the planet.

Q Who?

Episode 41

Q hurls the Enterprise across 7,000 light years forcing the crew into a premature encounter with a powerful alien race known as the Borg in an effort to prove to Picard that humanity is not yet ready to explore the galaxy.

Samaritan Snare

Episode 42

While Captain Picard undergoes a medical procedure to replace his artificial heart Geordi is kidnapped by the Pakleds who attempt to trade the engineer’s freedom for all of the information in the Enterprise’s computer.

Up the Long Ladder

Episode 43

Responding to a mysterious distress signal the Enterprise rescues colonists from Bringloid V and transports them to the nearby Marposia system where Picard must convince the two incompatible groups that they must work together to survive.

Manhunt

Episode 44

A diplomatic mission to transport Antedean dignitaries turns uncomfortable for Picard and Riker as Lwaxana Troi comes aboard the Enterprise intent on finding a husband as she undergoes the Betazoid equivalent of menopause, known as “The Phase.”

The Emissary

Episode 45

When a Klingon warship returns from a 75-year deep-space mission the Enterprise must diffuse a potential danger to the peace by transporting the Klingon emissary K’Ehleyr, a former love interest of Worf, to meet the long-lost warriors.

Peak Performance

Episode 46

Starfleet prepares for the Borg threat by staging war games between the Enterprise and an old starship, the Hathaway, commanded by Riker. But the war games take an unexpected turn when the Ferengi arrive and attempt to make off with the Hathaway.

Shades of Gray

Episode 47

Having been infected with an alien parasite, the now comatose Riker undergoes the only treatment that can purge him of the deadly infection as Dr. Pulaski forces the first officer to relive painful memories from througout his life.

Episode 1

On her maiden voyage, the Enterprise-D encounters a powerful entity while en route to examine a new trading outpost on Deneb IV. The omnipotent being, Q, puts humanity on trial as an inferior species, putting the new crew to an immediate test.

The Naked Now

Episode 2

A disease that renders its victims intoxicated and unstable sweeps the research ship Tsiolkovsky. When the Enterprise investigates, the disease jumps ships and drives Picard’s crew mad. Dr. Crusher must find a cure before the ship falls into a nearby star.

Code of Honor

Episode 3

During a medical mission to Ligon II, Tasha Yar is kidnapped by the planet’s ruler who wants her as his wife. Unable to negotiate a diplomatic solution, Picard must allow Yar to participate in a fight to the death to keep the mission on track.

The Last Outpost

Episode 4

On a first contact mission between the Federation and the Ferengi, the Enterprise finds itself instead pursuing the Ferengi to recover stolen property. Soon, however, both ships find themselves trapped above a strange planet by a ghost from the Tkon Empire.

Where No One Has Gone Before

Episode 5

When a warp drive specialist makes upgrades to the Enterprise engines, a problem sends the ship 2.7 million light years to a point outside the galaxy. Wesley and a unique alien known as the Traveler must bring the ship home before insanity takes over.

Lonely Among Us

Episode 6

While transporting delegates from to warring planets to the Federation diplomatic outpost known as Parliament, the Enterprise passes through a mysterious cloud that leaves the ship malfunctioning and crew members exhibiting strange behavior.

Justice

Episode 7

Stopping over for shore leave on the peaceful planet Rubicun III, the Enterprise crew finds itself in a diplomatic crisis when a simple accident by Wesley Crusher results in a death sentence under the planet’s system of universal punishment.

The Battle

Episode 8

Sent to the Xendi Sabu star system by the Federation to meet with the Ferengi, the Enterprise finds Picard’s old ship, the Stargazer, which the Ferengi claim is a gift for the captain. But when Picard begins suffering headaches the real intention is exposed. 

Hide and Q

Episode 9

While attempting to respond to a distress call from a Federation colony, the Enterprise encounters Q, who traps the ships in an energy web. Q forces the crew to participate in a deadly game and offers Riker the omnipotent power of the Q Continuum.

Haven

Episode 10

Compelled to honor an arranged marriage agreement made by her late father, Troi arrives at Haven where her mother waits with Wyatt, the man Deanna is to marry. But events take an unexpected turn when Wyatt finds Troi is not the woman he expects.

The Big Goodbye

Episode 11

Taking a break from diplomatic preparation, Picard sets out to enjoy a mystery as the detective Dixon Hill in his favorite holodeck program. When the a problem occurs in the program the crew become trapped in a deadly recreation of 1940s San Francisco.

Datalore

Episode 12

Stopping off at Omicron Theta, the world on which Data was discovered, the Enterprise crew discovers a second android name Lore, identical to Data, in the lab of Dr. Noonien Soong. Soon they learn there are some key differences between the two.

Angel One

Episode 13

In a search for survivors from a lost freighter, the Enterprise visits the planet Angel I where they find a society dominated by women. Riker uses a personal touch to gain favor but an attempt to evacuate survivors is disrupted by a virus outbreak aboard the ship.

11001001

Episode 14

During a maintenance call at Starbase 74, Starfleet brings in specialists from a unique race called the Bynars to make upgrades to the Enterprise’s computers. But the Bynars have their own plans as they carry out an elaborate hoax in order to steal the ship.

Too Short a Season

Episode 15

Negotiations to free a Federation ambassador from terrorists is put into jeopardy when the aging admiral chosen to lead the effort uses a de-aging compound to return to his youth but goes too far leaving him unable to complete the mission.

When the Bough Breaks

Episode 16

While traveling through the Epsilon Mynos system, the Enterprise finds the cloaked planet Aldea. Surprised by contact from these reclusive people, the motives soon become clear as the Aldeans’ kidnap children in hopes of rejuvenating their infertile race.

Home Soil

Episode 17

During a status check visit to a Federation terraforming colony on Velara III, the Enterprise discovers an intelligent inorganic life form on a planet thought to be lifeless. When the microscopic life declares war on the humans, Picard must reach a truce.

Coming of Age

Episode 18

Wesley Crusher prepares for his entrance exam to Starfleet Academy while Captain Picard and his senior officers face a performance review by an old friend with a secret agenda to promote Picard to admiral and reassign him to the Academy.

Heart of Glory

Episode 19

Sent to the Romulan Neutral Zone to investigate reports of a battle, the Enterprise finds only a Talarian freighter carrying three Klingons. When the Klingons are brought aboard and attempt to destroy the Enterprise, Worf’s loyalties are tested. 

The Arsenal of Freedom

Episode 20

When the USS Drake goes missing near the planet Minos, the Enterprise visits this legendary weapons supplier to investigate. The mission turns deadly, however, when the away team triggers an automated defense system that attacks in orbit and on land. 

Symbiosis

Episode 21

On a scientific mission in the Delos system, the Enterprise receives a distress call from a freighter and becomes caught in the middle of a dispute over medicinal shipments between two alien races who have developed a unique dependency on one another.

Skin of Evil

Episode 22

When a shuttle carrying Troi is forced to crash land on Vagra II, an away team must beam down to the planet to rescue the counselor. A simple rescue mission becomes more difficult, however, when an evil creature traps Troi and kills Tasha Yar.

We’ll Always Have Paris

Episode 23

While en route to Sarona VII a temporal distortion creates strange loops of repeating time onboard the Enterprise that lead to a Federation scientist whose experiments with non-linear time threaten to destroy the very fabric of spacetime itself.

Conspiracy

Episode 24

Summoned to a secret meeting on Dytallix B, Picard meets with a trio of captains who warn him of a conspiracy by alien forces to take control of Starfleet from within. Arriving at Earth to investigate, Picard and Riker come face to face with the threat.

The Neutral Zone

Episode 25

The Enterprise makes the first Federation contact with the Romulans in more than half a century as the disappearance of outposts brings fears of a resurgent Romulan threat. But the meeting is complicated with the discovery of a cryoship carrying ancient humans.