Fabula
Object
Object

USS Enterprise Transporter Pad

A recessed circular metallic transporter pad set flush into the deck of the Enterprise transporter room, ringed by operator consoles and recessed phase coils. The brushed‑alloy surface displays concentric tracings and status lights; when energized a tight golden‑blue shimmer forms as pattern buffers solicit locks. Used to dematerialize, transmit, and rematerialize personnel and small cargo; appears across multiple episodes performing the same narrative function as the ship's transporter pad and typically operated by the Transporter Chief.
40 appearances

Purpose

To dematerialize, transmit, and rematerialize personnel and small cargo between the USS Enterprise and external locations by establishing and locking a transporter pattern.

Significance

Serves as the climactic instrument of crisis and revelation: Lwaxana's ascent onto the pad precipitates the exposure of a concealed assassination threat and reframes her role from comic interloper to mission savior. The pad's activation creates the moment of tension, forces immediate action from security and science officers, and leaves lasting emotional consequences for Picard and the crew.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

40 moments