Data’s Existential Pause: The Probe’s Revelation and the Weight of the Unknown
Plot Beats
The narrative micro-steps within this event
Data pauses, then expresses astonishment at what the probe discovered, injecting mystery and heightening the sense of wonder and potential peril.
Who Was There
Characters present in this moment
A rare moment of existential unease, where Data’s usual precision is overshadowed by a flicker of doubt—both about the mission’s unknowns and his own sense of self.
Data stands at Science One, loading the Vega Nine probe’s data chip. Midway through processing the findings, he pauses mid-sentence, his golden eyes flickering with hesitation. He reveals the destination (Beta Stromgren system) and describes the probe’s data as ‘astonishing,’ displaying rare vulnerability. His posture is slightly rigid, betraying internal conflict, as he grapples with both the mission’s implications and his own existential query about ‘presence.’
- • To accurately convey the probe’s findings to the crew, despite his own disquiet.
- • To reconcile his existential questioning with the practical demands of the mission.
- • That the probe’s data holds profound implications beyond mere scientific discovery.
- • That his own ‘presence’—his existence as a sentient being—is a question worth exploring, even in the midst of a crisis.
Cautiously analytical, balancing the crew’s emotional moment with the need to assess the mission’s risks and logistical challenges.
Riker stands at Data’s shoulder, listening as the probe’s findings are revealed. He reacts to the distance of the Beta Stromgren system (23 parsecs beyond human exploration) with a note of apprehension, his analytical mind immediately grasping the stakes. His posture is attentive, and he contributes to the dialogue with a measured tone, grounding the crew in the practical realities of the mission.
- • To ensure the crew understands the magnitude of the mission’s risks, particularly the distance and isolation of the Beta Stromgren system.
- • To maintain operational focus while allowing space for Data’s personal struggle.
- • That first contact with the unknown requires both scientific rigor and emotional preparedness.
- • That the crew’s trust in one another is essential for success, even in the face of uncertainty.
Genuinely concerned for Data’s well-being, offering physical and emotional support to counteract Data’s moment of vulnerability.
Geordi stands at Data’s shoulder, listening intently as Data processes the probe’s data. When Data voices his existential question, Geordi responds by physically clasping Data’s shoulders—a gesture of reassurance, as if testing his solidness. His expression is supportive, and he engages in the dialogue with warmth, grounding Data in the moment.
- • To reassure Data of his tangible presence and worth, countering his existential doubt.
- • To ensure the crew remains focused on the mission despite the personal moment unfolding.
- • That Data’s struggles with self-perception are valid and worthy of acknowledgment.
- • That the crew’s unity and trust in one another are critical to navigating the unknown.
Collectively attentive and slightly tense, absorbing the weight of the mission’s unknowns while maintaining their roles.
The supernumerary bridge crew members are present at their stations but do not actively participate in the dialogue. They listen attentively, their presence contributing to the bridge’s operational atmosphere. Their focus is on their respective duties, though they are clearly aware of the tension in the air.
- • To ensure the bridge remains fully operational and responsive to any developments.
- • To support the lead officers in their decisions and actions.
- • That the crew’s cohesion is essential for navigating the challenges ahead.
- • That their individual roles, though small, contribute to the mission’s success.
Objects Involved
Significant items in this scene
The **Science One Console** serves as the bridge between the Vega Nine probe’s data and the crew’s understanding of it. Data loads the data chip into the console, and its screen projects the Beta Stromgren system coordinates and the probe’s findings. The console becomes a visual and narrative focal point, amplifying the tension as the crew grapples with the implications of the data. Its display underscores the mission’s stakes and Data’s moment of hesitation.
The **Vega Nine Probe Data Chip** is the catalyst for this event. Data slots it into Science One, and its contents—revealing the Beta Stromgren system and the ‘astonishing’ discovery—become the focal point of the crew’s attention. The chip’s data is both a scientific clue and a narrative threshold, pushing the crew toward the unknown. Its implications force Data into a moment of existential reflection, while Riker and Geordi react to the practical and emotional weight of the findings.
Location Details
Places and their significance in this event
The **Main Bridge** of the *USS Enterprise-D* is the command center where this event unfolds. Its hum of activity and the crew’s focused presence create a tense, high-stakes atmosphere. The bridge’s layout—with Data at Science One, Riker and Geordi at his shoulders, and Worf at Tactical—frames the crew’s dynamic as they react to the Vega Nine probe’s data. The forward viewscreen, though not actively displaying anything in this moment, looms as a symbol of the unknown ahead. The bridge’s operational mood is one of controlled urgency, with the crew’s reactions to Data’s revelation adding an emotional layer to the scene.
Organizations Involved
Institutional presence and influence
Starfleet’s influence is palpable in this event, though not explicitly stated. The Vega Nine probe’s data, the classified nature of the mission, and the crew’s adherence to protocol all reflect Starfleet’s institutional priorities: exploration, first contact, and the pursuit of knowledge—even in the face of the unknown. The crew’s reactions to the Beta Stromgren system’s distance and the probe’s ‘astonishing’ findings are shaped by Starfleet’s mandate to push boundaries, even as they grapple with personal and ethical dilemmas.
Narrative Connections
How this event relates to others in the story
"Data expresses astonishment about the probe's findings, creating anticipation for the reveal of "Tin Man."
"Data expresses astonishment about the probe's findings, creating anticipation for the reveal of "Tin Man."
"Data reveals the Enterprise's destination as Beta Stromgren, then he and Tam present the information about Tin Man."
"Data reveals the Enterprise's destination as Beta Stromgren, then he and Tam present the information about Tin Man."
Key Dialogue
"DATA: *Commander, Geordi... do you ever feel as if I am not 'there?' That is to say... not 'here.'*"
"GEORDI: *You seem to be all here.*"
"DATA: *Our destination is the Beta Stromgren system, following the path of the Vega Nine probe.*"
"RIKER: *That's twenty-three parsecs beyond our furthest manned explorations.*"
"DATA: *Apparently the probe has discovered... [beat] ...Astonishing.*"