Object

Main Bridge Subspace Communication Panel

A sleek, wall-mounted communication interface embedded within the USS Enterprise main bridge. Featuring illuminated touch controls and a vibrant screen, it serves as the vital communication hub for senior officers—including Captain Picard, Data, Riker, Worf, and Geordi—to intercept and transmit urgent distress signals and relay critical transmissions. This panel anchors tense moments, such as receiving Professor Paul Manheim's SOS and Governor Karnas' deadly ultimatum, enabling rapid coordination and command communication amid crises.
6 appearances

Purpose

Facilitates the interception, transmission, and coordination of real-time shipboard communications and distress signals on the USS Enterprise main bridge.

Significance

This panel serves as the vital communication hub during the critical moment when the crew receives and processes the SOS from Manheim, catalyzing the mission ahead and highlighting the bridge's role as the nerve center of command and crisis management.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

6 moments
S3E24 · Menage a Troi
The Silence Breaks: A Priority One Distress Call from Betazed

The USS Enterprise Main Bridge Communication Panel serves as the critical interface through which the Priority One transmission from Betazed is received. Worf monitors it closely as the panel signals the incoming message, its illuminated touch controls and status strip flashing with urgency. The panel’s role in this event is twofold: first, it confirms the restoration of subspace communications, shattering the nebula’s isolating veil; second, it delivers the devastating news of the abductions, which immediately shifts the Enterprise from diplomatic observation to high-stakes rescue mode. The panel’s design—sleek, functional, and embedded in the bridge’s operational flow—reflects its importance as a lifeline to the outside world, especially in crises. Its activation here is the catalyst for the entire event, transforming the bridge from a place of routine operations to a command center for emergency action.

Before: Functional but inactive due to subspace interference from the nebula. The panel’s displays are dimmed, and its status strip shows no incoming transmissions. It serves as a silent reminder of the Enterprise’s isolation until Worf’s announcement of restored communications.
After: Fully operational and active, now processing the Priority One transmission from Betazed. The panel’s displays are illuminated, and its status strip indicates an active communication channel. It remains a focal point for the bridge crew as they prepare to respond to the crisis.
View full event