32 Years Ago, An Iconic Star Trek Episode Set the Stage for Its Most Interesting Modern Spinoff

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By the early 1990s, Star Trek: The Next Generation had found its footing and become incredibly popular with fans. Captain Picard’s Enterprise was the setting for many of the most memorable stories, characters, and concepts in Star Trek history. Many fans still consider it the best Star Trek series ever made, and it even paved the way for some of the newer shows we enjoy today.

Today’s Star Trek shows have changed a lot, but Lower Decks really captures the heart of what Star Trek is all about, and it does so with a funny, animated style. Interestingly, the idea for Lower Decks actually started with an episode of The Next Generation. Back on February 7, 1994, Star Trek: The Next Generation aired “Lower Decks,” which told a story from the perspective of the crew members who weren’t on the bridge. That episode ultimately inspired the creation of Star Trek: Lower Decks.

How “Lower Decks” Opened Star Trek Up to A New Point of View

The Season 7 episode of The Next Generation, titled “Lower Decks,” stands out because it shifts the focus away from the usual main characters. Instead of following Captain Picard, Riker, or Data, the episode centers on four young ensigns – Taurik, Lavelle, Sito Jaxa, and Alyssa Ogawa. We see them dealing with everyday challenges like job stress, friendships, and the pressure of living up to Starfleet’s high standards while working alongside legendary officers. Through their eyes, even familiar characters like Picard and Riker appear different – Picard seems distant and Riker, intimidating. The episode’s clever writing reminds us that Starfleet is a large organization, and many dedicated officers don’t receive the same recognition as its heroes.

This episode’s emotional core centers on Sito Jaxa, portrayed by Shannon Fill, who viewers first met in Season 5’s “The First Duty.” She was part of a scandal at Starfleet Academy, and she’s still haunted by that past mistake, wanting to prove herself. She gets a chance with a risky mission to Cardassia, and the episode makes a powerful impact when she seemingly dies, especially after we’ve seen her as a fully realized and sympathetic character.

How Star Trek: Lower Decks Turned an Old Concept into A Beloved Series

When the original episode first aired, no one could have predicted that the idea of focusing on the often-overlooked crew members would become so popular. Though different in tone from the classic “Lower Decks” episode, Star Trek: Lower Decks is widely considered the best new Star Trek series in years. It takes that initial side story and turns it into a funny animated comedy packed with references for longtime fans.

When Lower Decks first came out in 2020, many were skeptical about an animated Star Trek comedy. Created by Mike McMahan, known for Rick and Morty, the show follows the crew who keep the U.S.S. Cerritos running – a ship usually assigned to less exciting missions. Luckily, Lower Decks quickly proved it was more than just a simple parody or a trip down memory lane. Like other Star Trek shows, it treats the careers and dreams of its lower-ranking officers with respect, all while being genuinely funny. Ensigns Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford navigate the challenges of their jobs, dealing with both authority and the demands of serving in Starfleet.

Lower Decks has quickly become a standout Star Trek series in recent years. What makes it special is its ability to tell new stories while also delighting longtime fans with nods to classic shows like The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, and Voyager. Even though the show has finished its five-season run, it proved that there are still plenty of exciting stories to tell in the Star Trek universe.

Enjoying Lower Decks? Or do you prefer a different Star Trek series? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-02-08 01:14