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After Captain Picard receives a dark warning from an old friend, the ''Enterprise'' returns to Earth to stop an alien invasion from taking over Starfleet Command.
 +
After Captain Picard receives a dark warning from an old friend, the ''Enterprise''-D returns to Earth to stop an alien invasion from taking over Starfleet Command.
   
 
== Summary ==
  
== Summary ==
 
[[File:Walker Keel.jpg|thumb|left|Walker Keel's clandestine communiqué]]
  
[[File:Walker Keel.jpg|thumb|left|Walker Keel's clandestine communiqué]]
−
While ''en route'' to [[Pacifica]], [[Jean-Luc Picard]] receives a [[code 47]] emergency message from [[Walker Keel]], an old friend who is [[captain]] of the {{class|Ambassador}} {{USS|Horatio}}. Keel asks Picard for a secret rendezvous on the abandoned mining [[colony]] on [[Dytallix B]]. Picard meets with Walker and two other captains, [[Tryla Scott]] and {{dis|Rixx|Captain}}, who, after confirming Picard's identity with a series of questions about his past, tell him about their suspicions of a conspiracy of some sort reaching up to the highest levels of [[Starfleet Command]]. After returning to the ''Enterprise'', Picard looks into the matter, having [[Data]] review [[Starfleet]] directives of the past six months. While Data is reviewing the records, the {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} encounters the debris of Keel's ship.
 +
While ''en route'' to [[Pacifica]], [[Jean-Luc Picard]] receives a [[code 47]] emergency message from [[Walker Keel]], an old friend who is [[captain]] of the {{class|Ambassador}} {{USS|Horatio}}. Keel asks Picard for a secret rendezvous on the abandoned [[mining]] [[colony]] on [[Dytallix B]]. Picard meets with Walker and two other captains, [[Tryla Scott]] and {{dis|Rixx|Captain}}, who, after confirming Picard's identity with a series of questions about his past, tell him about their suspicions of a conspiracy of some sort reaching up to the highest levels of [[Starfleet Command]]. After returning to the ''Enterprise''-D, Picard looks into the matter, having [[Data]] review [[Starfleet]] directives of the past six [[month]]s. While Data is reviewing the records, the {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} encounters the [[debris]] of Keel's ship.
   
−
In light of Keel's death, Picard tells [[William T. Riker|Riker]] about the suspicions Keel voiced in the [[observation lounge]] During their conversation, Data enters and tells them what he has found: during the past six months there has been a great deal of "''uncustomary reshuffling of personnel – usually in the command areas,''" and the new officers have had a great deal of contact with the highest levels of command. Data hypothesizes that the reorganizations are an attempt by a hostile force or individual to control important sectors of [[Federation]] territory. Faced with this information, the ''Enterprise'' returns to [[Earth]].
 +
In light of Keel's [[death]], Picard tells [[William T. Riker|Riker]] about the suspicions Keel voiced in the [[observation lounge]]. During their conversation, Data enters and tells them what he has found: during the past six months there has been a great deal of "''uncustomary reshuffling of personnel – usually in the command areas,''" and the new [[officer]]s have had a great deal of contact with the highest levels of command. Data hypothesizes that the reorganizations are an attempt by a hostile force or individual to control important sectors of [[Federation]] territory. Faced with this information, the ''Enterprise''-D returns to [[Earth]].
   
−
[[File:StarfleetCommand2364.jpg|thumb|Nothing to worry about, we're all fine here]]
 +
[[File:Starfleet command, 2364.jpg|thumb|Nothing to worry about, we're all fine here]]
−
Upon entering [[orbit]], the ''Enterprise'' is contacted by three [[admiral]]s from [[Starfleet Command]], requesting an explanation for their return. Picard states that he would prefer a discussion of that sort occur in private; the three admirals convene for a moment, then invite Picard and Riker to dinner at [[Starfleet Headquarters]] for the discussion to take place. [[Rear Admiral]] [[Gregory Quinn|Quinn]] says that he will not be able to attend the dinner, but that he would like to see the ''Enterprise'' [[Coming of Age (episode)|again]]. Just before he beams up, he looks at a [[scorpion]]-like creature he has in a case.
 +
Upon entering [[orbit]], the ''Enterprise''-D is contacted by three [[admiral]]s from [[Starfleet Command]], requesting an explanation for their return. Picard states that he would prefer a discussion of that sort occur in private; the three admirals convene for a moment, then invite Picard and Riker to [[dinner]] at [[Starfleet Headquarters]] for the discussion to take place. [[Rear Admiral]] [[Gregory Quinn|Quinn]] says that he will not be able to attend the dinner, but that he would like to see the ''Enterprise''-D [[Coming of Age (episode)|again]]. Just before he beams up, he looks at a [[scorpion]]-like creature he has in a case.
   
−
When Quinn is on board the ''Enterprise'', he bluffs his way through references to old times, and states that his earlier perception of a threat to the Federation was merely a metaphor for the "tumultuous process" of assimilating new races into the Federation. Picard realizes that Admiral Quinn is an impostor of some sort and tells Riker to observe Quinn closely and have [[Doctor|Dr.]] [[Beverly Crusher|Crusher]] give him a medical examination under false pretenses; after Riker reaches his conclusions, he is to join Picard on [[Earth]], in force if necessary. Picard then [[beam]]s down and meets with [[Rear Admiral]] [[Savar]] and [[Vice Admiral]] [[Aaron]], as well as [[Dexter Remmick]].
 +
When Quinn is on board the ''Enterprise''-D, he bluffs his way through references to old times, and states that his earlier perception of a threat to the Federation was merely a [[metaphor]] for the "tumultuous process" of assimilating new [[species]] into the Federation. Picard realizes that Admiral Quinn is an impostor of some sort and tells Riker to observe Quinn closely and have [[Doctor]] [[Beverly Crusher|Crusher]] give him a medical examination under false pretenses; after Riker reaches his conclusions, he is to join Picard on Earth, in force if necessary. Picard then [[beam]]s down and meets with [[Rear Admiral]] [[Savar]] and [[Vice Admiral]] [[Aaron]], as well as [[Dexter Remmick]].
   
 
[[File:Neural parasite quinn.jpg|thumb|left|A scan of the parasite attached to Quinn]]
  
[[File:Neural parasite quinn.jpg|thumb|left|A scan of the parasite attached to Quinn]]
−
On the ship in the guest [[quarters]], Quinn offers to show Riker the [[neural parasite (24th century)|creature]] and tells him about it. It was discovered by a Starfleet survey team on an uncharted planet, and Quinn refers to it as "a superior form of life". When Riker says he'll get his [[science officer]] to examine it, Quinn grabs his arm very strongly, saying the creature will only like Riker. After a brief scuffle, in which Quinn displays amazing strength, Riker is knocked unconscious. When [[security]] arrives, Quinn says that Riker slipped and hit his head, and then announces his departure. When [[Worf]] and [[Geordi La Forge|La Forge]] try to detain him, he throws La Forge out into the hallway, his body knocking down the door, and similarly beats Worf before being repeatedly [[phaser]]ed with increasingly powerful stun settings into unconsciousness by Dr. Crusher. In [[sickbay]], Crusher's scans show that Quinn really is Quinn, but she discovers a bizarre appendage sticking out of the back of his neck.
 +
On the ship in the guest [[quarters]], Quinn offers to show Riker the {{dis|neural parasite|24th century|creature}} and tells him about it. It was discovered by a Starfleet [[survey team]] on an uncharted [[planet]], and Quinn refers to it as "a superior form of life". When Riker says he'll get his [[science officer]] to examine it, Quinn grabs his arm very strongly, saying the creature will only like Riker. After a brief scuffle, in which Quinn displays amazing strength, Riker is knocked unconscious. When [[security]] arrives, Quinn says that Riker slipped and hit his head, and then announces his departure. When [[Worf]] and [[Geordi La Forge|La Forge]] try to detain him, he throws La Forge out into the [[corridor]], his body knocking down the [[door]], and similarly beats Worf before being repeatedly [[phaser]]ed with increasingly powerful stun settings into unconsciousness by Dr. Crusher. In [[sickbay]], Crusher's [[scan]]s show that Quinn really is Quinn, but she discovers a bizarre appendage sticking out of the back of his neck.
   
−
On Earth, the two admirals try to subtly persuade Picard that there is in fact no conspiracy. Dinner is announced, so Picard takes a moment to contact Riker. Crusher answers on Riker's [[combadge]], as Riker is unconscious. Crusher informs Picard that a parasitic creature of some sort has taken control of Quinn and all his [[brain]] functions. The spike at the back of Quinn's neck appears to be a gill, which is a helpful indicator of those who have been taken over by one of the creatures. Crusher states her doubts about removing the creature, believing it would kill Quinn. She instructs Picard to set his phaser to kill rather than stun, which has little effect on the creature or its host; Picard, however, believing that no one beams down to Starfleet Headquarters armed, has no [[phaser]] with him at all.
 +
On Earth, the two admirals try to subtly persuade Picard that there is in fact no conspiracy. Dinner is announced, so Picard takes a moment to contact Riker. Crusher answers on Riker's [[combadge]], as Riker is unconscious. Crusher informs Picard that a parasitic creature of some sort has taken control of Quinn and all his [[brain]] functions. The spike at the back of Quinn's neck appears to be a gill, which is a helpful indicator of those who have been taken over by one of the creatures. Crusher states her doubts about removing the creature, believing it would kill Quinn. She instructs Picard to set his phaser to kill rather than stun, which has little effect on the creature or its host; Picard, however, believing that no one beams down to Starfleet Headquarters armed, has no phaser with him at all.
   
 
[[File:Eating worms.jpg|thumb|Worms - it's what's for dinner]]
  
[[File:Eating worms.jpg|thumb|Worms - it's what's for dinner]]
−
Picard goes in to dinner. The dish being served is a bowl filled with mealworms. Picard is disgusted, and realizes that everyone at the dinner has been infiltrated by the aliens. He gets up to leave, and runs into Riker. Riker has also apparently been taken over by the creature: he has a gill in his neck. So, too, has Captain Scott. The "conspirators" announce that they have known of Picard's intentions the whole time. They talk of their plan to infiltrate the ''Enterprise''. Riker moves to eat, but instead he pulls out a [[Type 1 phaser]] and shoots the dining security guard. When Captain Scott draws her phaser at Riker, Picard grabs at her arm and throws off her aim, allowing Riker to shoot her as well. However, Admiral Savar begins to subdue Riker with a [[Vulcan neck pinch]].
+
Picard goes in to dinner. The dish being served is a [[bowl]] filled with [[worm]]s. Picard is disgusted, and realizes that everyone at the dinner has been infiltrated by the [[alien]]s. He gets up to leave, and runs into Riker. Riker has also apparently been taken over by the creature: he has a gill in his [[neck]]. So, too, has Captain Scott. The "conspirators" announce that they have known of Picard's intentions the whole time. They talk of their plan to infiltrate the ''Enterprise''-D. Riker moves to eat, but instead he pulls out a [[type 1 phaser]] and shoots the dining security guard. When Captain Scott draws her phaser at Riker, Picard grabs at her arm and throws off her aim, allowing Riker to shoot her as well. However, Admiral Savar begins to subdue Riker with a [[Vulcan neck pinch]].
   
 
[[File:Savar Riker neck pinch.jpg|thumb|Savar tries to render Riker unconscious with a neck pinch]]
  
[[File:Savar Riker neck pinch.jpg|thumb|Savar tries to render Riker unconscious with a neck pinch]]
−
Picard then grabs Captain Scott's phaser and uses it to take down Savar. Admiral Aaron flees the dining room, and Picard and Riker pursue and shoot him in the hallway after he returns fire. The admiral falls to the ground, and the parasite infesting him crawls out of his mouth and goes under a nearby door. They follow it to find Remmick sitting in a chair. He turns to look at it, unconcerned; Riker goes to shoot it, but Picard stops him, as the creature crawls up Remmick and enters his mouth. He swallows it, and it begins moving around in his [[neck]]. "''We mean you no harm''", he says as he stands, his neck noisily bulging in and out. "''We seek peaceful coexistence''".
+
Picard then grabs the security guard's phaser and uses it to take down Savar. Admiral Aaron flees the dining room, and Picard and Riker pursue and shoot him in the hallway after he returns fire. The admiral falls to the ground, and the parasite infesting him crawls out of his mouth and goes under a nearby door. They follow it to find Remmick sitting in a [[chair]]. He turns to look at it, unconcerned; Riker goes to shoot it, but Picard stops him, as the creature crawls up Remmick and enters his mouth. He swallows it, and it begins moving around in his neck. "''We mean you no harm''", he says as he stands, his neck noisily bulging in and out. "''We seek peaceful coexistence''".
   
 
[[File:Alien parasite mother.jpg|thumb|left|The mother parasite is exposed]]
  
[[File:Alien parasite mother.jpg|thumb|left|The mother parasite is exposed]]
−
Picard and Riker open fire with their phasers, knocking Remmick back into the chair. Riker aims higher and destroys Remmick's head, the outer layer of skin vaporizing and the rest exploding. Remmick's chest cavity begins to dissolve and a large creature breaks through with several blood soaked parasites trickling behind, screaming at the two Starfleet officers. With a disgusted look on his face, Picard opens fire again with Riker following suit, both phasers continuing until the creature is vaporized, leaving several blood soaked parasites around the chair and floor, and the decapitated smoldering remains of what was once Lieutenant Commander Remmick.
 +
Picard and Riker open fire with their phasers, knocking Remmick back into the chair. Riker aims higher and destroys Remmick's head, the outer layer of skin vaporizing and the rest exploding. Remmick's chest cavity begins to dissolve and a large creature breaks through with several [[blood]] soaked parasites trickling behind, screaming at the two Starfleet officers. With a disgusted look on his face, Picard opens fire again with Riker following suit, both phasers continuing until the creature is vaporized, leaving several blood soaked parasites around the chair and floor, and the decapitated smoldering remains of what was once [[Lieutenant Commander]] Remmick.
   
−
Back aboard the ''Enterprise'', Picard notes in his log that Admiral Quinn will make a full recovery, and with the death of the "mother creature" inside of Remmick, the remaining parasites died while Riker reveals that Dr. Crusher had simulated the gill on the back of his neck in order to fool everyone, including Picard. As the ''Enterprise'' moves on into space, Data theorizes that Remmick had been transmitting a homing beacon before he died and that should the parasites receive it, they would know where to find Earth.
 +
Back aboard the ''Enterprise''-D, Picard notes in his [[log]] that Admiral Quinn will make a full recovery, and with the death of the "mother creature" inside of Remmick, the remaining parasites died while Riker reveals that Dr. Crusher had simulated the gill on the back of his neck in order to fool everyone, including Picard. As the ''Enterprise''-D moves on into space, Data theorizes that Remmick had been transmitting a [[homing beacon]] before he died and that should the parasites receive it, they would know where to find Earth.
  +
  ⚫
=== Log Entries ===
  ⚫
* [[First officer's log, USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)#Mission to Pacifica|First officer's log, USS ''Enterprise'' (NCC-1701-D)]]
  ⚫
* [[Captain's personal log, USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)#Mission to Pacifica|Captain's personal log, USS ''Enterprise'' (NCC-1701-D)]]
  ⚫
* [[Captain's log, USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D), 2364#Mission to Pacifica|Captain's log, USS ''Enterprise'' (NCC-1701-D), 2364]]
   
 
== Memorable quotes ==
  
== Memorable quotes ==
 
"''One can... swim in moonlight?''"
  
"''One can... swim in moonlight?''"
 
: - '''Data'''
  
: - '''Data'''
−
:
 
−
"What is our ETA to Pacifica Mr. La Forge?"
  
   
−
"22 Hours, 14 Minutes Sir."
  
   
−
"Increase to Warp 6."
  
−  
−
"Aye Sir, Full Impulse."
  
−
: -'''Riker '''and '''La Forge'''
  
−
:
 
 
"''How about you, Mr. Worf?''"<br />
  
"''How about you, Mr. Worf?''"<br />
 
"''[grimaces and shakes his head] Swimming is too much like... bathing.''"
  
"''[grimaces and shakes his head] Swimming is too much like... bathing.''"
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== Background information ==
  
== Background information ==
 
=== Script and story ===
  
=== Script and story ===
−
[[File:Conspiracy (Andrew Probert).jpg|thumb|An [[Andrew Probert]] concept art for the ending scene]]
 +
[[File:Andrew Probert conspiracy concept art.jpg|thumb|An [[Andrew Probert]] concept art for the ending scene]]
 
[[File:Curry with Remmick model.jpg|thumb|[[Dan Curry]] with the model]]
  
[[File:Curry with Remmick model.jpg|thumb|[[Dan Curry]] with the model]]
 
* Writer [[Tracy Tormé]], adapting a story by [[Robert Sabaroff]] to ''The Next Generation'', had hoped to make "Conspiracy" a commentary on the Iran/Contra Affair, but this potentially controversial notion was nixed. A plot by Starfleet officers out to undermine the [[Prime Directive]] (already introduced six episodes before in {{e|Coming of Age}}), turned out to be the result of an infestation of alien insects, not part of Tormé's original approach.
  
* Writer [[Tracy Tormé]], adapting a story by [[Robert Sabaroff]] to ''The Next Generation'', had hoped to make "Conspiracy" a commentary on the Iran/Contra Affair, but this potentially controversial notion was nixed. A plot by Starfleet officers out to undermine the [[Prime Directive]] (already introduced six episodes before in {{e|Coming of Age}}), turned out to be the result of an infestation of alien insects, not part of Tormé's original approach.
 
* The original version of the script did not feature alien parasites; the conspiracy in question was simply a military coup within [[Starfleet]]. [[Gene Roddenberry]] vehemently opposed such an idea, since he believed Starfleet would never stoop to such methods; there was just no way Tormé could get away with suggesting that the Federation was anything less than a perfect government. Thus the alien angle was introduced at his insistence. ([[DS9]] later featured a similar plot, however, in the two-part episodes {{e|Homefront}} and {{e|Paradise Lost}}.)
  
* The original version of the script did not feature alien parasites; the conspiracy in question was simply a military coup within [[Starfleet]]. [[Gene Roddenberry]] vehemently opposed such an idea, since he believed Starfleet would never stoop to such methods; there was just no way Tormé could get away with suggesting that the Federation was anything less than a perfect government. Thus the alien angle was introduced at his insistence. ([[DS9]] later featured a similar plot, however, in the two-part episodes {{e|Homefront}} and {{e|Paradise Lost}}.)
−
* Indeed, the whole idea of the episode, its violence, and its unresolved ending caused quite a stir, but [[Robert Justman]], [[Rick Berman]], and [[Rob Lewin]] backed Tormé against the objections of [[Maurice Hurley]], and the show stood pretty much as he had intended it, with the topical references subtly shoved under the carpet. Things did not go so well for writer Tormé in the future; he was left with the feeling that, as far as creative freedom for writers, the second half of ''Star Trek: The Next Generation''{{'}}s second season was the best part of the series as a whole.
+
* Indeed, the whole idea of the episode, its violence, and its unresolved ending caused quite a stir, but [[Robert Justman]], [[Rick Berman]], and [[Rob Lewin]] backed Tormé against the objections of [[Maurice Hurley]], and the show stood pretty much as he had intended it, with the topical references subtly shoved under the carpet. Things did not go so well for writer Tormé in the future; he was left with the feeling that, as far as creative freedom for writers, the second half of ''Star Trek: The Next Generation''{{'}}s [[TNG Season 2|second season]] was the best part of the series as a whole.
−
* Although the episode closed on a suspenseful note, no resolution has yet been seen.
 +
* Although the ending pointed toward a possible followup of the parasite theme, none was ever produced.
 
* "Conspiracy" started as the original story with the title "The Assassins". (''[[Creating the Next Generation: The Conception and Creation of a Phenomenon]]'', p.61)
  
* "Conspiracy" started as the original story with the title "The Assassins". (''[[Creating the Next Generation: The Conception and Creation of a Phenomenon]]'', p.61)
   
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=== Sets and props ===
  
=== Sets and props ===
 
[[File:Mother parasite prop.jpg|thumb|The "mother" parasite prop]]
  
[[File:Mother parasite prop.jpg|thumb|The "mother" parasite prop]]
−
* The chair in which Remmick is seated is a redress of the wheelchair used by Admiral Mark Jameson in {{TNG|Too Short a Season}}.
 +
* The chair in which Remmick is seated is a redress of the [[wheelchair]] used by Admiral [[Mark Jameson]] in {{TNG|Too Short a Season}}.
−
* The [[Neural parasite (24th century)|Neural parasite]]s were fabricated by [[Makeup & Effects Laboratories]], headed by [[Allan A. Apone]] following a design from [[Rick Sternbach]]. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation 365]]'', p. 111)
 +
* The {{dis|Neural parasite|24th century}}s were fabricated by [[Makeup & Effects Laboratories]], headed by [[Allan A. Apone]] following a design from [[Rick Sternbach]]. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation 365]]'', p. 111)
   
 
=== Cast and characters ===
  
=== Cast and characters ===
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=== Continuity ===
  
=== Continuity ===
 
* This episode marks the first appearance of a [[Bolian]].
  
* This episode marks the first appearance of a [[Bolian]].
−
[[File:Unnamed Tellarites TNG.jpg|thumb|Two [[Unnamed Tellarites (24th century)#Councilors (2364)|unnamed Tellarites]]]]
 +
[[File:Tellarite councilors, 2364.jpg|thumb|Two [[Unnamed Tellarites (24th century)#Councilors (2364)|Tellarites]]]]
 
* The exterior footage of [[Starfleet Headquarters]] was recycled from {{film|4}}; as such, this episode is the only time [[Tellarite]]s appear on TNG. They are wearing robes originally worn by [[Kazarites]] in {{film|1}}.
  
* The exterior footage of [[Starfleet Headquarters]] was recycled from {{film|4}}; as such, this episode is the only time [[Tellarite]]s appear on TNG. They are wearing robes originally worn by [[Kazarites]] in {{film|1}}.
−
* When Data is commenting on the orders he has just read, the computer interrupts him by saying "''Thank you, sir. I comprehend.''" This is the only time in all of ''Star Trek'' when a Federation computer speaks in the first-person narrative ("I"). The non-canon reference work ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Officer's Manual]]'' explains this by stating that the ''Enterprise'' computer was one of the most advanced ever constructed and was in fact self-aware. It is also one of the only times the computer has expressed "frustration" with its user, more often the frustration is the other way around.
 +
* When Data is commenting on the orders he has just read, the computer interrupts him by saying "''Thank you, sir. I comprehend.''" This is the only time in all of ''Star Trek'' when a Federation computer speaks in the first-person narrative ("I"). The non-[[canon]] reference work ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Officer's Manual]]'' explains this by stating that the ''Enterprise''-D computer was one of the most advanced ever constructed and was in fact self-aware. It is also one of the only times the computer has expressed "frustration" with its user, more often the frustration is the other way around.
 
* Amongst the logs reviewed by Data, the "''[[Great Bird of the Galaxy]]''" can briefly be seen.
  
* Amongst the logs reviewed by Data, the "''[[Great Bird of the Galaxy]]''" can briefly be seen.
−
* This is the last appearance of the Starfleet Admiral's uniform which was seen through the first season of ''The Next Generation''. The uniform, notable for its "triangle pip" insignia, was replaced in Season Two by an interim uniform which used the more familiar "boxed pip" insignia. By season three, the admiral's uniform was changed again to become the standard which was used for the rest of the series.
 +
* This is the last appearance of the [[Starfleet uniform (2350s-2370s)#Type B|Starfleet Admiral's uniform]] which was seen through the first season of ''The Next Generation''. The uniform, notable for its "triangle pip" insignia, was replaced in season two by an interim uniform which used the more familiar "boxed pip" insignia. By [[TNG Season 3|season three]], the admiral's uniform was changed again to become the standard which was used for the rest of the series.
−
[[File:The Explored Galaxy.jpg|thumb|[[Alpha Quadrant|Alpha]] and [[Beta Quadrant]] star chart seen behind [[Dexter Remmick|Remmick]]]]
 +
[[File:The Explored Galaxy.jpg|thumb|[[Alpha Quadrant|Alpha]] and [[Beta Quadrant]] star chart seen behind Remmick]]
−
* A [[star chart]] featured in this episode, on the wall behind Remmick's chair, was created by the art department and shows several dozen planets and [[star system]]s mentioned in [[TOS]] and [[TAS]]. The star chart was re-used in many more TNG episodes and recently appeared in the {{w|Invasion of the Bane|pilot episode}} of the ''Doctor Who'' spin-off series ''{{w|The Sarah Jane Adventures}}'' in the eponymous main character's attic.
 +
* A [[star chart]] featured in this episode, on the wall behind Remmick's chair, was created by the art department and shows several dozen planets and [[star system]]s mentioned in [[TOS]] and [[TAS]]. The star chart was re-used in many more TNG episodes and later appeared in the {{w|Invasion of the Bane|pilot episode}} of the ''[[Doctor Who]]'' spin-off series {{wt|The Sarah Jane Adventures}} in the eponymous main character's attic.
−
* This is the first episode of the series to feature [[Earth]].
 +
* This is the first episode of the series to feature [[Earth]] and [[Luna]].
−
* The Vulcan nerve pinch is used in this episode, however unlike [[TOS]], a person doesn't fall unconscious after the pinch but grimaces in pain. It's possible, however, that the parasite controlling Savar may not have been performing the neck pinch properly.
 +
* The [[Vulcan nerve pinch]] is used in this episode, however unlike TOS, a person doesn't fall unconscious after the pinch but grimaces in pain. It's possible, however, that the parasite controlling Savar may not have been performing the neck pinch properly.
 
* {{e|The Drumhead}} would later establish that Admiral [[Norah Satie]] had been instrumental in uncovering the parasite conspiracy.
  
* {{e|The Drumhead}} would later establish that Admiral [[Norah Satie]] had been instrumental in uncovering the parasite conspiracy.
   
 
=== Awards ===
  
=== Awards ===
−
* This episode won an [[Emmy Award]] for Outstanding Achievement in Makeup for a Series.
 +
* This episode won an [[Emmy Award]] in {{y|1988}} in the category Outstanding Achievement in Makeup for a Series, namely [[Michael Westmore]], [[Werner Keppler]], and [[Gerald Quist]].
   
 
=== Reception ===
  
=== Reception ===
−
* On its first airing in the UK on 20th March 1991, the [[BBC]] cut several minutes of footage from the episode (most notably the death of Remmick). In addition, [[Space (channel)|Space]], Canada's science fiction network, precedes this episode with a viewer discretion warning, the only ''The Next Generation'' episode to receive this.
 +
* On its first airing in the UK on 20 March 1991, the [[BBC]] cut several minutes of footage from the episode (most notably the death of Remmick). In addition, {{dis|Space|channel}}, Canada's science fiction network, precedes this episode with a viewer discretion warning, the only ''The Next Generation'' episode to receive this.
 
* A mission report by Will Murray for this episode was published in ''[[The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine]]'' Vol. 5, pp. 64-66.
  
* A mission report by Will Murray for this episode was published in ''[[The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine]]'' Vol. 5, pp. 64-66.
   
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* The parasites have also returned in [[Pocket Books]]' new [[Pocket DS9|DS9]] series of [[novels]], first in ''[[The Lives of Dax#Sins of the Mother (Audrid)|The Lives of Dax]]'', in which [[Audrid Dax]] and [[Christopher Pike]] discover that the parasites are closely related to the [[Trill]]. The last book in the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - Mission Gamma|Mission: Gamma]]'' series then picks this up, leading into the novel ''[[Unity]]'' in which it is revealed that the Trill symbionts and the neural parasites have been fighting a long secret war, with several species worth of hosts and governments as their weapons against each other. The parasites' latest gambit has been the continued fervor for [[Bajor]] to join the [[Federation]]; for unknown reasons this would represent a great victory to their secret plan.
  
* The parasites have also returned in [[Pocket Books]]' new [[Pocket DS9|DS9]] series of [[novels]], first in ''[[The Lives of Dax#Sins of the Mother (Audrid)|The Lives of Dax]]'', in which [[Audrid Dax]] and [[Christopher Pike]] discover that the parasites are closely related to the [[Trill]]. The last book in the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - Mission Gamma|Mission: Gamma]]'' series then picks this up, leading into the novel ''[[Unity]]'' in which it is revealed that the Trill symbionts and the neural parasites have been fighting a long secret war, with several species worth of hosts and governments as their weapons against each other. The parasites' latest gambit has been the continued fervor for [[Bajor]] to join the [[Federation]]; for unknown reasons this would represent a great victory to their secret plan.
 
* This story arc is completed in the novel ''[[Worlds of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Volume 2|Unjoined]]'' by [[Andy Mangels]] and [[Michael A. Martin]], in which the parasites are revealed to actually be genetically modified Trill symbionts, created on the remote Trill colony of [[Kurl]]. A deadly plague had been killing symbionts, and the experiments were intended to develop a cure. However, the experiment failed, and the symbionts so affected became violent and xenophobic - the parasites - and swore revenge on Trill society for this disaster.
  
* This story arc is completed in the novel ''[[Worlds of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Volume 2|Unjoined]]'' by [[Andy Mangels]] and [[Michael A. Martin]], in which the parasites are revealed to actually be genetically modified Trill symbionts, created on the remote Trill colony of [[Kurl]]. A deadly plague had been killing symbionts, and the experiments were intended to develop a cure. However, the experiment failed, and the symbionts so affected became violent and xenophobic - the parasites - and swore revenge on Trill society for this disaster.
−
* In [[Star Trek Online]] bonus episode What's Left Behind, it is revealed that the parasites were bio-engineered by the [[Iconian|Iconians]] as a way of controlling the [[Vaadwaur]].
 +
* In the ''[[Star Trek Online]]'' bonus episode "What's Left Behind", it is revealed that the parasites were bio-engineered by the [[Iconian]]s as a way of controlling the [[Vaadwaur]].
   
 
== Links and references ==
  
== Links and references ==
Line 194: Line 191:
 
* [[Jonathan Farwell]] as [[Walker Keel]]
  
* [[Jonathan Farwell]] as [[Walker Keel]]
   
−
=== Guest-stars ===
 +
=== Co-stars ===
−
* [[Michael Berryman]] as [[Captain]] [[Rixx (Captain)|Rixx]]
 +
* [[Michael Berryman]] as [[Captain]] {{dis|Rixx|Captain}}
 
* [[Ursaline Bryant]] as [[Captain]] [[Tryla Scott]]
  
* [[Ursaline Bryant]] as [[Captain]] [[Tryla Scott]]
   
 
=== Uncredited co-stars ===
  
=== Uncredited co-stars ===
 
* [[Majel Barrett]] as {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} [[computer voice]]
  
* [[Majel Barrett]] as {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} [[computer voice]]
  +
* [[Jeffrey Deacon]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Bridge Crewman (2364-2366)|command division officer]]
⚫
* [[Tim McCormack]] as [[Bennett (Ensign)|Bennett]]
  
  +
* [[Dexter Clay]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Security officer (2364-2365)|operations division officer]]
  +
* [[Nora Leonhardt]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Female science division/command division ensign|science division ensign]]
  ⚫
* [[Tim McCormack]] as {{dis|Bennett|Ensign}}
 
* [[Lorine Mendell]] as [[Diana Giddings]]
  
* [[Lorine Mendell]] as [[Diana Giddings]]
 
* [[Brad Phillips]] as [[Longo]]
  
* [[Brad Phillips]] as [[Longo]]
−
* [[Richard Sarstedt]] as a [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Helmsman|command division officer]]
 +
* [[Richard Sarstedt]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Helmsman|command division officer]]
−
* [[Gary J. Wayton]] as a [[Unnamed Starfleet Headquarters personnel#Security officer (2364)|Starfleet security officer]]
 +
* [[Gary J. Wayton]] as [[Unnamed Starfleet Headquarters personnel#Security officer (2364)|Starfleet security officer]]
−
* [[Unknown performers]] as [[Unnamed Tellarites (24th century)#Councilors (2364)|two Tellarite councilors (archive footage)]]
 +
* [[Unknown performers]] as
  +
** [[Unnamed Starfleet Headquarters personnel#Headquarters personnel (2364)|Eleven Starfleet Headquarters officers]]
  +
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Female crewmember with bracelet|Female operations division officer]]
  +
** [[Unnamed Starfleet Headquarters personnel#Headquarters personnel (2364)|Seven Starfleet Headquarters civilians]]
  +
** [[Unnamed Arcadians#Councilors (2364)|Two Arcadian councilors (archive footage)]]
  +
** [[Unnamed Starfleet Headquarters personnel#Headquarters personnel (2364)|Two Starfleet Headquarters technicians]]
  +
** [[Unnamed Tellarites (24th century)#Councilors (2364)|Two Tellarite councilors (archive footage)]]
   
 
=== Stunt doubles ===
  
=== Stunt doubles ===
 
* [[Tom Morga]] as [[stunt double]] for [[Jonathan Frakes]]
  
* [[Tom Morga]] as [[stunt double]] for [[Jonathan Frakes]]
 
* [[Jim Wilkey]] as stunt double for [[Ray Reinhardt]]
  
* [[Jim Wilkey]] as stunt double for [[Ray Reinhardt]]
−
* [[Unknown stunt performer]]s
 +
* [[Unknown stunt performer]]s as
 
** Stunt double for [[Ward Costello]]
  
** Stunt double for [[Ward Costello]]
 
** Stunt double for [[LeVar Burton]]
  
** Stunt double for [[LeVar Burton]]
Line 225: Line 231:
   
 
=== References ===
  
=== References ===
−
[[2364]]; [[admiral]]; [[adrenal gland]]s; [[Altairian Conference]]; {{Class|Ambassador}}; [[Andonian tea]]; [[Neural parasite (24th century)|blue gill]]; [[Bolian]]s; [[captain]]; [[code 47]]; [[Jack Crusher|Crusher, Jack]]; [[Delaplane]]; [[Dytallix Mining Company]]; [[Earth]]; [[Fleet Operations Center]]; [[frigate]]; [[governor]]; [[heavy cruiser]]; [[holodeck]]; [[homing beacon]]; [[USS Horatio|''Horatio'', USS]]; [[Luna]]; [[Onna Karapleedeez|Karapleedeez, Onna]]; [[Anne Keel|Keel, Anne]]; [[Melissa Keel|Keel, Melissa]]; [[McKinney]]; [[Milky Way Galaxy]]; [[Mira Antlia]]; [[Dytallix B|Mira Antlia V ("Dytallix B")]]; [[neural parasite (24th century)|neural parasite]]; [[number one]]; [[Unnamed Alpha and Beta Quadrant planets#Neural Parasites Planet|Neural Parasites Planet]]; [[orbital shuttle]]; [[Outer Rim]]; [[Pacifica]]; [[rear admiral]]; [[Relva VII]]; [[USS Renegade|''Renegade'', USS]]; [[sabotage]]; [[Sector 63]]; [[senility]]; [[Ryan Sipe|Sipe, Ryan]]; [[Sol]]; [[Sol sector]]; [[Starbase 12]]; [[Starfleet Command]]; [[Starfleet Headquarters]]; [[surveyor]]; [[swimming]]; [[Tau Ceti III]]; [[Unnamed Alpha and Beta Quadrant starships (24th century)#Vessels on file in LCARS|unnamed LCARS file starships]]; [[Unnamed Federation space stations]]; [[USS Thomas Paine|''Thomas Paine'', USS]]; [[vitamin]]; [[voice print identification]]; [[Vulcan nerve pinch]]
 +
[[2364]]; [[admiral]]; [[adrenal gland]]; [[Altairian Conference]]; {{Class|Ambassador}}; [[Andonian tea]]; [[aquarium]]; [[Arcadian]]; [[bed]]; [[biobed]]; [[Bolian]]; [[bracelet]]; [[brain]]; [[bridge]]; [[captain]]; [[cargo]]; [[carpet]]; [[cloud]]; [[code 47]]; [[comnet database]]; [[conspiracy]]; {{Class|Constellation}}; [[corridor]]; [[Jack Crusher|Crusher, Jack]]; [[debris]]; [[Delaplane]]; [[desk]]; [[desktop monitor]]; [[Dytallix B]]; [[Dytallix Mining Company]]; [[Earth]]; [[Fleet Operations Center]]; [[frigate]]; [[Galaxy class decks]]; [[Golden Gate Bridge]]; [[governor]]; [[guest quarters]]; [[heavy cruiser]]; [[holodeck]]; [[homing beacon]]; [[USS Horatio|''Horatio'', USS]]; [[hypospray]]; [[Onna Karapleedeez|Karapleedeez, Onna]]; [[Anne Keel|Keel, Anne]]; [[Melissa Keel|Keel, Melissa]]; [[Klingon]]; [[Klingonese]]; [[Luna]]; [[McKinney]]; [[medical tricorder]]; [[Milky Way Galaxy]]; [[Mira Antlia]]; [[Mira Antlia system]]; [[Mira Antlia V]]; [[model]]; [[NCC-7100]]; [[neck]]; {{dis|neural parasite|24th century}}; [[Unnamed Alpha and Beta Quadrant planets#Neural parasites planet|Neural parasites planet]]; [[neutron star]]; [[number one]]; [[observation lounge]]; [[orbital shuttle]]; [[orbital shuttle 5]]; [[Outer Rim]]; [[Pacifica]]; [[PADD]]; [[painting]]; [[doll|rag doll]]; [[ramp]]; [[ready room]]; [[rear admiral]]; [[Relva VII]]; [[USS Renegade|''Renegade'', USS]]; [[replicator]]; [[sabotage]]; [[San Francisco]]; [[sculpture]]; [[Sector 63]]; [[security code]]; [[senility]]; [[sickbay]]; [[Ryan Sipe|Sipe, Ryan]]; [[skant]]; [[Sol]]; [[Sol sector]]; [[SS 433]]; [[Starbase 12]]; [[star chart]]; [[Starfleet Command]]; [[Starfleet Headquarters]]; [[star system]]; [[surveyor]]; [[swimming]]; [[Tau Ceti III]]; [[Tellarite]]; [[USS Thomas Paine|''Thomas Paine'', USS]]; [[transporter room]]; [[turbolift]]; [[type 1 phaser]]; [[type 2 phaser]]; [[type 7 shuttlecraft]]; [[United Federation of Planets]]; [[Unnamed Federation space stations]]; [[unnamed medical tools]]; [[Unnamed orbital shuttles#San Francisco shuttle 1|unnamed orbital shuttle]]; [[unnamed plants]]; [[Starfleet uniform (2350s-2370s)#Utility uniform|utility uniform]]; [[viewscreen]]; [[VISOR]]; [[vitamin]]; [[voice print identification]]; [[Vulcan]]; [[Vulcan nerve pinch]]; [[Vulcan salute]]; [[window]]; [[worm]]
  +
  ⚫
==== Library computer references ====
  ⚫
*'''Federation Star Chart ("The Explored Galaxy")''': [[Aldebaran]]; [[Alfa 177]]; [[Alpha Carinae]]; [[Alpha Centauri]]; [[Alpha Majoris]]; [[Altair VI]]; [[Andor]]; [[Ariannus]]; [[Arret]]; [[Babel]]; [[Benecia]]; [[Berengaria VII]]; [[Beta Aurigae]]; [[Beta Geminorum]]; [[Beta Lyrae]]; [[Beta Niobe]]; [[Beta Portolan]]; [[Camus II]]; [[Canopus III]]; [[Capella]]; [[Daran V]]; [[Delta Vega]]; [[Deneb]]; [[Eminiar]]; [[Fabrina]]; [[First Federation]]; [[Gamma Canaris N]]; [[Gamma Trianguli]]; [[Holberg 917G]]; [[Ingraham B]]; [[Janus VI]]; [[Kling]]; [[Kzin]]; [[Lactra VII]]; [[Makus III]]; [[Marcos XII]]; [[Manark IV]]; [[Memory Alpha]]; [[Omega IV]]; [[Omega Cygni]]; [[Organia]]; {{dis|Orion|star}}; [[Pallas 14]]; [[Phylos]]; [[Pollux IV]]; [[Psi 2000]]; [[Pyris VII]]; [[Alpha Leonis system|Regulus]]; [[Remus]]; [[Rigel]]; [[Romulan Neutral Zone]]; [[Romulus]]; [[Sarpeid]]; [[Sirius]]; [[Talosian system|Talos]]; [[Tau Ceti]]; [[Theta III]]; [[Tholian Assembly]]; {{dis|Vulcan|planet}}
  +
  ⚫
* '''Star Chart''': [[61 Cygni]]; [[Alpha Centauri]]; [[Argelius II]]; [[Barnard's Star]]; [[Bayard's Planet]]; [[concussion ring]]; ''[[Diana]]''; [[Epsilon Eridani]]; [[Epsilon Indi]]; [[USS Greyhound|''Greyhound'', USS]]; [[Groombridge 34]]; [[Jewel stars]]; [[Lalande 21185]]; [[Luyten 789-6]]; [[USS Muleskinner|''Muleskinner'', USS]]; [[Phi Puma]]; [[Procyon]]; [[Proxima Centauri]]; [[Ross 154]]; [[Ross 248]]; [[Sirius]]; [[Sol]]; [[supernova]]; [[Tau Ceti]]; [[Wolf 359]]
   
⚫
==== Library Computer References ====
  
⚫
*'''Federation Star Chart ("The Explored Galaxy")''': [[Aldebaran]]; [[Alfa 177]]; [[Alpha Carinae]]; [[Alpha Centauri]]; [[Alpha Majoris]]; [[Altair VI]]; [[Andor]]; [[Ariannus]]; [[Arret]]; [[Babel]]; [[Benecia]]; [[Berengaria VII]]; [[Beta Aurigae]]; [[Beta Geminorum]]; [[Beta Lyrae]]; [[Beta Niobe]]; [[Beta Portolan]]; [[Camus II]]; [[Canopus III]]; [[Capella]]; [[Daran V]]; [[Delta Vega]]; [[Deneb]]; [[Eminiar]]; [[Fabrina]]; [[First Federation]]; [[Gamma Canaris N]]; [[Gamma Trianguli]]; [[Holberg 917G]]; [[Ingraham B]]; [[Janus VI]]; [[Kling]]; [[Kzin]]; [[Lactra VII]]; [[Makus III]]; [[Marcos XII]]; [[Manark IV]]; [[Memory Alpha]]; [[Omega IV]]; [[Omega Cygni]]; [[Organia]]; [[Orion (star)|Orion]]; [[Pallas 14]]; [[Phylos]]; [[Pollux IV]]; [[Psi 2000]]; [[Pyris VII]]; [[Alpha Leonis system|Regulus]]; [[Remus]]; [[Rigel]]; [[Romulan Neutral Zone]]; [[Romulus]]; [[Sarpeid]]; [[Sirius]]; [[Talosian system|Talos]]; [[Tau Ceti]]; [[Theta III]]; [[Tholian Assembly]]; [[Vulcan (planet)|Vulcan]]
  
⚫
* '''Star Chart''': [[61 Cygni]]; [[Alpha Centauri]]; [[Argelius II]]; [[Barnard's Star]]; [[Bayard's Planet]]; [[concussion ring]]; ''[[Diana]]''; [[Epsilon Eridani]]; [[Epsilon Indi]]; [[USS Greyhound|''Greyhound'', USS]]; [[Groombridge 34]]; [[Jewel stars]]; [[Lalande 21185]]; [[Luyten 789-6]]; [[USS Muleskinner|''Muleskinner'', USS]]; [[Phi Puma]]; [[Procyon]]; [[Proxima Centauri]]; [[Ross 154]]; [[Ross 248]]; [[Sirius]]; [[Sol]]; [[supernova]]; [[Tau Ceti]]; [[Wolf 359]]
  
 
* '''Starbase Ops Status Sol Sector''': [[Orion sector]]; [[Orion Sector Tactical Command]]; [[Starbase 0834]]; [[Starbase 4077]]
  
* '''Starbase Ops Status Sol Sector''': [[Orion sector]]; [[Orion Sector Tactical Command]]; [[Starbase 0834]]; [[Starbase 4077]]
⚫
* '''Mission Orders''': [[Douglas Adams|Adams, Douglas]]; [[Starfleet Advanced Technologies|Advanced Technologies Division]]; [[USS Albert Einstein|''Albert Einstein'', USS]]; [[USS Aleo|''Aleo'', USS]]; [[Jeffery Joal Annon|Annon, Jeffery Joal]]; [[Antica]]; [[Jimmy Arakaki|Arakaki, Jimmy]]; [[Miguel Aranda|Aranda, Miguel]]; [[Itzak Arrat|Arrat, Itzak]]; [[USS Atlantis|''Atlantis'', USS]]; [[Daryl Baskin (Lieutenant Commander)|Baskin, Daryl]]; [[Tom Benko (Commander)|Benko, Tom]]; [[Beta Epsilon system]]; [[Richard K. Berman|Berman, Richard K.]]; [[Steve Bowen (Lieutenant Commander)|Bowen, Steve]]; [[Peter Bryce|Bryce, Peter]]; [[USS Callisto|''Callisto'', USS]]; [[Roy Cameron|Cameron, Roy]]; [[Cara]]; [[Bev Clark|Clark, Bev]]; [[commodore]]; [[coordinates]]; [[USS Constellation (NCC-55817)|''Constellation'', USS]]; [[USS Copernicus (NCC-58637)|''Copernicus'', USS]]; [[Daniel Curry (Admiral)|Curry, Daniel]]; [[Monty de Graff (Lieutenant Commander)|de Graff, Monty]]; [[Dent Arthur Dent]]; [[USS Discovery|''Discovery'', USS]]; [[Anna Dixon|Dixon, Anna]]; [[Don Dixon|Dixon, Don]]; [[Doug Durbrow|Durbrow, Doug]]; [[USS Elmer Fudd|''Elmer Fudd'', USS]]; [[USS Endeavour (NCC-39272)|''Endeavour'', USS]]; [[USS Equicon|''Equicon'', USS]]; {{class|Excelsior}}; [[J.P. Farrell (24th century)|Farrell, J.P.]]; [[Erma Felna|Felna, Erma]]; [[Ferengi]]; [[Alan Ferranti|Ferranti, Alan]]; [[Sharyl Fickas (Commander)|Fickas, Sharyl]]; [[first contact]]; [[Fleet Ops]]; [[Samuel Freedle|Freedle, Samuel]]; [[Layne Friedman|Friedman, Layne]]; [[Sandy Fries (Admiral)|Fries, Sandy]]; [[Sandy Fries (Captain)|Fries, Sandy]]; [[Serial number|FSN]]; [[Bryan D. Furen|Furen, Bryan D.]]; [[Steve Gallacci|Gallacci, Steve]]; [[Gamma Argus II]]; [[Gamma Argus system]]; [[USS Ganymede|''Ganymede'', USS]]; [[Diana Giddings (Captain)|Giddings, Diana]]; [[Seth Goldberg (Captain)|Goldberg, Seth]]; [[USS Gremlin|''Gremlin'', USS]]; [[Jonas Grumby|Grumby, Jonas]]; [[Asenath Hammond|Hammond, Asenath]]; [[heading]]; [[Ed Hoffmeister (Lieutenant Commander)|Hoffmeister, Ed]]; [[Horton]]; [[Bill Hoy|Hoy, Bill]]; [[Maxwell Headroom|Headroom, Maxwell]]; [[USS Heart of Gold|''Heart of Gold'', USS]]; [[B.J. Hunnicutt|Hunnicutt, B.J.]]; [[Gary Hutzel (Commander)|Hutzel, Gary]]; [[Joshua Jae|Jae, Joshua]]; [[USS James Fennimore Cooper|''James Fennimore Cooper'', USS]]; [[USS John F. Kennedy|''John F. Kennedy'', USS]]; [[Jennifer Jumper|Jumper, Jennifer]]; [[Kandari sector]]; [[Gerald Kawaoki|Kawaoki, Gerald]]; [[Alan Kobayashi (Captain)|Kobayashi, Alan]]; [[John Koslowsky|Koslowsky, John]]; [[John LaSalandra (Commander)|LaSalandra, John]]; [[Don Lee (Lieutenant Commander)|Lee, Don]]; [[Gwynne Jean Lee|Lee, Gwynee Jean]]; [[Rob Legato (Captain)|Legato, Rob]]; [[Michael J. Lin|Lin, Michael J.]]; [[Monica Livingston|Livingston, Monica]]; [[Bill Marafe|Marafe, Bill]]; [[Maria Mann|Mann, Maria]]; [[McKenzie Project]]; [[Marcia Meldal-Johnsan|Meldal-Johnsan, Marcia]]; [[Mark 25 warp sensor]]; [[Carlene Mathews|Mathews, Carlene]]; [[Carol Mathews|Mathews, Carol]]; [[Marion Mathews|Mathews, Marion]]; [[USS Matte Fringe|''Matte Fringe'', USS]]; [[USS Max Plank|''Max Plank'', USS]]; [[Tod Miles|Miles, Tod]]; [[USS Minnow|''Minnow'', USS]]; [[Ronald Moore (Lieutenant Commander)|Moore, Ronald B.]]; [[Sherri Moore|Moore, Sherri]]; [[USS Mustang|''Mustang'', USS]]; [[NAR]]; [[Lex Nakashima|Nakashima, Lex]]; [[Eric Nash (Commander)|Nash, Eric]]; [[NCC]]; [[Kurt Nelson|Nelson, Kurt]]; [[New Zealand]]; [[USS Nightwing|''Nightwing'', USS]]; [[USS Non Sequitur|''Non Sequitur'', USS]]; [[Darryl Oja|Oja, Darryl]]; [[USS Omaha Nebraska|''Omaha Nebraska'', USS]]; [[Jana Park|Park, Jana]]; [[Benjamin Franklin Pierce|Pierce, Benjamin Franklin]]; [[Prime Directive]]; [[USS Puget Sound|''Puget Sound'', USS]]; [[Orfil Quinteros|Quinteros, Orfil]]; [[Fred Raimondi (Commander)|Raimondi, Fred]]; [[USS Robert Louis Stevenson|''Robert Louis Stevenson'', USS]]; [[Romulan Neutral Zone]]; [[Maury Rosenfeld|Rosenfeld, Maury]]; [[Louis Rubenstein|Rubenstein, Louis]]; [[sector]]; [[Sector 004]]; [[Sector 010]]; [[Sector 45]]; [[Sector 52]]; [[Sector 450]]; [[Sector 500]]; [[sensor]]; [[sensor drone]]; [[USS Sherlock Holmes|''Sherlock Holmes'', USS]]; [[Sigma Antares sector]]; [[Sirius Cybernetics Corporation]]; [[spacedock]]; [[Starbase 045]]; [[Starbase 55]]; [[Starbase 74]]; [[Starbase Trailer Twenty-Nine]]; [[Starfleet Mission Operations]]; [[Starfleet Operational Support Services]]; [[Planetary Geosciences Division|Starfleet Planetary Geosciences Division]]; [[Starfleet ranks]]; [[G. Harry Stein|Stein, G. Harry]]; [[Rick Sternbach (Captain)|Sternbach, Rick]]; [[Jon Stevens|Stevens, Jon]]; [[Thomas McCormick Stormont III|Stormont III, Thomas McCormick]]; [[Sector#Subsector|subsector]]; [[Subsector 4418]]; [[Subsector 4432]]; [[Subsector 4534]]; [[Subspace relay network|Subspace Comm Net]]; [[subspace relay station]]; [[Tactical Analysis Division]]; [[David Takemura (Starfleet)|Takemura, David]]; [[Terrestrial Defense Division]]; [[John Testa|Testa, John]]; [[Cari Thomas (Captain)|Thomas, Cari L.]]; [[USS Ticonderoga|''Ticonderoga'', USS]]; [[Toki]]; [[USS Tranquillity Base|''Tranquillity Base'', USS]]; [[Bjo Trimble (Commander)|Trimble, Bjo]]; [[John Trimble|Trimble, John]]; [[Kathryn Trimble|Trimble, Kathryn]]; [[Lora Trimble|Trimble, Lora]]; [[USS Tycho|''Tycho'', USS]]; [[USS Unicorn|''Unicorn'', USS]]; [[Unnamed Alpha and Beta Quadrant starships (24th century)#Vessels on file in LCARS|unnamed LCARS file starships]]; [[Unnamed Federation space stations]];[[USS]]; [[Mary van de Ven|van de Ven, Mary]]; [[Sandy Veneziano (Starfleet)|Veneziano, Sandy]]; [[vice admiral]]; {{class|Wanderer}}; [[warp factor]]; [[warp sensor grid]]; [[USS White Sands|''White Sands'', USS]]; [[Jody Woodard|Woodard, Jody]]; [[Carol Yamada|Yamada, Carol]]; [[Bobby Yamauchi|Yamauchi, Bobby]]; [[Herman Zimmerman (Captain)|Zimmerman, Herman]]
  
   
  ⚫
* '''Mission Orders''': [[Douglas Adams|Adams, Douglas]]; [[USS Albert Einstein|''Albert Einstein'', USS]]; [[USS Aleo|''Aleo'', USS]]; [[Jeffery Joal Annon|Annon, Jeffery Joal]]; [[Antican]]; [[Jimmy Arakaki|Arakaki, Jimmy]]; [[Miguel Aranda|Aranda, Miguel]]; [[Itzak Arrat|Arrat, Itzak]]; [[USS Atlantis|''Atlantis'', USS]]; {{dis|Daryl Baskin|Lieutenant Commander|Baskin, Daryl}}; {{dis|Tom Benko|Commander|Benko, Tom}}; [[Beta Epsilon system]]; [[Richard K. Berman|Berman, Richard K.]]; {{dis|Steve Bowen|Lieutenant Commander|Bowen, Steve}}; [[Peter Bryce|Bryce, Peter]]; [[USS Callisto|''Callisto'', USS]]; [[Roy Cameron|Cameron, Roy]]; [[Cara]]; [[Bev Clark|Clark, Bev]]; [[commodore]]; [[coordinates]]; [[USS Constellation (NCC-55817)|''Constellation'', USS]]; [[USS Copernicus (NCC-58637)|''Copernicus'', USS]]; {{dis|Daniel Curry|Admiral|Curry, Daniel}}; {{dis|Monty de Graff|Lieutenant Commander|de Graff, Monty}}; [[Dent Arthur Dent]]; [[USS Discovery|''Discovery'', USS]]; [[Anna Dixon|Dixon, Anna]]; [[Don Dixon|Dixon, Don]]; [[Doug Durbrow|Durbrow, Doug]]; [[USS Elmer Fudd|''Elmer Fudd'', USS]]; [[USS Endeavour (NCC-39272)|''Endeavour'', USS]]; [[USS Equicon|''Equicon'', USS]]; {{class|Excelsior}}; {{dis|J.P. Farrell|24th century|Farrell, J.P.}}; [[Erma Felna|Felna, Erma]]; [[Ferengi]]; [[Alan Ferranti|Ferranti, Alan]]; {{dis|Sharyl Fickas|Commander|Fickas, Sharyl}}; [[first contact]]; [[Fleet Ops]]; [[Samuel Freedle|Freedle, Samuel]]; [[Layne Friedman|Friedman, Layne]]; {{dis|Sandy Fries|Admiral|Fries, Sandy}}; {{dis|Sandy Fries|Captain|Fries, Sandy}}; [[Serial number|FSN]]; [[Bryan D. Furen|Furen, Bryan D.]]; [[Steve Gallacci|Gallacci, Steve]]; [[Gamma Argus II]]; [[Gamma Argus system]]; [[USS Ganymede|''Ganymede'', USS]]; {{dis|Diana Giddings|Captain|Giddings, Diana}}; {{dis|Seth Goldberg|Captain|Goldberg, Seth}}; [[USS Gremlin|''Gremlin'', USS]]; [[Jonas Grumby|Grumby, Jonas]]; [[Asenath Hammond|Hammond, Asenath]]; [[heading]]; {{dis|Ed Hoffmeister|Lieutenant Commander|Hoffmeister, Ed}}; [[Horton]]; [[Bill Hoy|Hoy, Bill]]; [[Maxwell Headroom|Headroom, Maxwell]]; [[USS Heart of Gold|''Heart of Gold'', USS]]; [[B.J. Hunnicutt|Hunnicutt, B.J.]]; {{dis|Gary Hutzel|Commander|Hutzel, Gary}}; [[Joshua Jae|Jae, Joshua]]; [[USS James Fennimore Cooper|''James Fennimore Cooper'', USS]]; [[USS John F. Kennedy|''John F. Kennedy'', USS]]; [[Jennifer Jumper|Jumper, Jennifer]]; [[Kandari sector]]; [[Gerald Kawaoki|Kawaoki, Gerald]]; {{dis|Alan Kobayashi|Captain|Kobayashi, Alan}}; [[John Koslowsky|Koslowsky, John]]; {{dis|John LaSalandra|Commander|LaSalandra, John}}; {{dis|Don Lee|Lieutenant Commander|Lee, Don}}; [[Gwynne Jean Lee|Lee, Gwynee Jean]]; {{dis|Rob Legato|Captain|Legato, Rob}}; [[Michael J. Lin|Lin, Michael J.]]; [[Monica Livingston|Livingston, Monica]]; [[Bill Marafe|Marafe, Bill]]; [[Maria Mann|Mann, Maria]]; [[McKenzie Project]]; [[Marcia Meldal-Johnsan|Meldal-Johnsan, Marcia]]; [[Mark 25 warp sensor]]; [[Carlene Mathews|Mathews, Carlene]]; [[Carol Mathews|Mathews, Carol]]; [[Marion Mathews|Mathews, Marion]]; [[USS Matte Fringe|''Matte Fringe'', USS]]; [[USS Max Plank|''Max Plank'', USS]]; [[Tod Miles|Miles, Tod]]; [[USS Minnow|''Minnow'', USS]]; {{dis|Ronald Moore|Lieutenant Commander|Moore, Ronald}}; [[Sherri Moore|Moore, Sherri]]; [[USS Mustang|''Mustang'', USS]]; [[NAR]]; [[Lex Nakashima|Nakashima, Lex]]; {{dis|Eric Nash|Commander|Nash, Eric}}; [[NCC]]; [[Kurt Nelson|Nelson, Kurt]]; [[New Zealand]]; [[USS Nightwing|''Nightwing'', USS]]; [[USS Non Sequitur|''Non Sequitur'', USS]]; [[Darryl Oja|Oja, Darryl]]; [[USS Omaha Nebraska|''Omaha Nebraska'', USS]]; [[Jana Park|Park, Jana]]; [[Benjamin Franklin Pierce|Pierce, Benjamin Franklin]]; [[Prime Directive]]; [[USS Puget Sound|''Puget Sound'', USS]]; [[Orfil Quinteros|Quinteros, Orfil]]; {{dis|Fred Raimondi|Commander|Raimondi, Fred}}; [[USS Robert Louis Stevenson|''Robert Louis Stevenson'', USS]]; [[Romulan Neutral Zone]]; [[Maury Rosenfeld|Rosenfeld, Maury]]; [[Louis Rubenstein|Rubenstein, Louis]]; [[sector]]; [[Sector 004]]; [[Sector 010]]; [[Sector 45]]; [[Sector 52]]; [[Sector 450]]; [[Sector 500]]; [[sensor]]; [[sensor drone]]; [[USS Sherlock Holmes|''Sherlock Holmes'', USS]]; [[Sigma Antares sector]]; [[Sirius Cybernetics Corporation]]; [[spacedock]]; [[Starbase 045]]; [[Starbase 55]]; [[Starbase 74]]; [[Starbase Trailer Twenty-Nine]]; [[Starfleet Advanced Technologies]]; [[Starfleet Mission Operations]]; [[Starfleet Operational Support Services]]; [[Planetary Geosciences Division|Starfleet Planetary Geosciences Division]]; [[Starfleet ranks]]; [[G. Harry Stein|Stein, G. Harry]]; {{dis|Rick Sternbach|Captain|Sternbach, Rick}}; [[Jon Stevens|Stevens, Jon]]; [[Thomas McCormick Stormont III|Stormont III, Thomas McCormick]]; [[subsector]]; [[Subsector 4418]]; [[Subsector 4432]]; [[Subsector 4534]]; [[Subspace relay network|Subspace Com Net]]; [[subspace relay station]]; [[Tactical Analysis Division]]; {{dis|David Takemura|Starfleet|Takemura, David}}; [[Terrestrial Defense Division]]; [[John Testa|Testa, John]]; {{dis|Cari Thomas|Captain|Thomas, Cari}}; [[USS Ticonderoga|''Ticonderoga'', USS]]; [[Toki]]; [[USS Tranquillity Base|''Tranquillity Base'', USS]]; {{dis|Bjo Trimble|Commander|Trimble, Bjo}}; [[John Trimble|Trimble, John]]; [[Kathryn Trimble|Trimble, Kathryn]]; [[Lora Trimble|Trimble, Lora]]; [[USS Tycho|''Tycho'', USS]]; [[USS Unicorn|''Unicorn'', USS]]; [[Unnamed Alpha and Beta Quadrant starships (24th century)#Vessels on file in LCARS|unnamed LCARS file starships]]; [[Unnamed Federation space stations]]; [[USS]]; [[Mary van de Ven|van de Ven, Mary]]; {{dis|Sandy Veneziano|Starfleet|Veneziano, Sandy}}; [[vice admiral]]; {{class|Wanderer}}; [[warp factor]]; [[warp sensor grid]]; [[USS White Sands|''White Sands'', USS]]; [[Jody Woodard|Woodard, Jody]]; [[Carol Yamada|Yamada, Carol]]; [[Bobby Yamauchi|Yamauchi, Bobby]]; {{dis|Herman Zimmerman|Captain|Zimmerman, Herman}}
⚫
=== Log entries ===
  
⚫
*[[First officer's log, USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)#Mission to Pacifica|First officer's log, USS ''Enterprise'' (NCC-1701-D)]]
  
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=== External links ===
 
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{{TNG nav|season=1|last={{e|We'll Always Have Paris}}|next={{e|The Neutral Zone}}}}
  
{{TNG nav|season=1|last={{e|We'll Always Have Paris}}|next={{e|The Neutral Zone}}}}

Revision as of 12:50, 13 September 2015

Template:Realworld

After Captain Picard receives a dark warning from an old friend, the Enterprise-D returns to Earth to stop an alien invasion from taking over Starfleet Command.

Summary

Walker Keel

Walker Keel's clandestine communiqué

While en route to Pacifica, Jean-Luc Picard receives a code 47 emergency message from Walker Keel, an old friend who is captain of the Ambassador-class USS Horatio. Keel asks Picard for a secret rendezvous on the abandoned mining colony on Dytallix B. Picard meets with Walker and two other captains, Tryla Scott and Rixx, who, after confirming Picard's identity with a series of questions about his past, tell him about their suspicions of a conspiracy of some sort reaching up to the highest levels of Starfleet Command. After returning to the Enterprise-D, Picard looks into the matter, having Data review Starfleet directives of the past six months. While Data is reviewing the records, the USS Enterprise-D encounters the debris of Keel's ship.

In light of Keel's death, Picard tells Riker about the suspicions Keel voiced in the observation lounge. During their conversation, Data enters and tells them what he has found: during the past six months there has been a great deal of "uncustomary reshuffling of personnel – usually in the command areas," and the new officers have had a great deal of contact with the highest levels of command. Data hypothesizes that the reorganizations are an attempt by a hostile force or individual to control important sectors of Federation territory. Faced with this information, the Enterprise-D returns to Earth.

Starfleet command, 2364

Nothing to worry about, we're all fine here

Upon entering orbit, the Enterprise-D is contacted by three admirals from Starfleet Command, requesting an explanation for their return. Picard states that he would prefer a discussion of that sort occur in private; the three admirals convene for a moment, then invite Picard and Riker to dinner at Starfleet Headquarters for the discussion to take place. Rear Admiral Quinn says that he will not be able to attend the dinner, but that he would like to see the Enterprise-D again. Just before he beams up, he looks at a scorpion-like creature he has in a case.

When Quinn is on board the Enterprise-D, he bluffs his way through references to old times, and states that his earlier perception of a threat to the Federation was merely a metaphor for the "tumultuous process" of assimilating new species into the Federation. Picard realizes that Admiral Quinn is an impostor of some sort and tells Riker to observe Quinn closely and have Doctor Crusher give him a medical examination under false pretenses; after Riker reaches his conclusions, he is to join Picard on Earth, in force if necessary. Picard then beams down and meets with Rear Admiral Savar and Vice Admiral Aaron, as well as Dexter Remmick.

File:Neural parasite quinn.jpg

A scan of the parasite attached to Quinn

On the ship in the guest quarters, Quinn offers to show Riker the creature and tells him about it. It was discovered by a Starfleet survey team on an uncharted planet, and Quinn refers to it as "a superior form of life". When Riker says he'll get his science officer to examine it, Quinn grabs his arm very strongly, saying the creature will only like Riker. After a brief scuffle, in which Quinn displays amazing strength, Riker is knocked unconscious. When security arrives, Quinn says that Riker slipped and hit his head, and then announces his departure. When Worf and La Forge try to detain him, he throws La Forge out into the corridor, his body knocking down the door, and similarly beats Worf before being repeatedly phasered with increasingly powerful stun settings into unconsciousness by Dr. Crusher. In sickbay, Crusher's scans show that Quinn really is Quinn, but she discovers a bizarre appendage sticking out of the back of his neck.

On Earth, the two admirals try to subtly persuade Picard that there is in fact no conspiracy. Dinner is announced, so Picard takes a moment to contact Riker. Crusher answers on Riker's combadge, as Riker is unconscious. Crusher informs Picard that a parasitic creature of some sort has taken control of Quinn and all his brain functions. The spike at the back of Quinn's neck appears to be a gill, which is a helpful indicator of those who have been taken over by one of the creatures. Crusher states her doubts about removing the creature, believing it would kill Quinn. She instructs Picard to set his phaser to kill rather than stun, which has little effect on the creature or its host; Picard, however, believing that no one beams down to Starfleet Headquarters armed, has no phaser with him at all.

Eating worms

Worms - it's what's for dinner

Picard goes in to dinner. The dish being served is a bowl filled with worms. Picard is disgusted, and realizes that everyone at the dinner has been infiltrated by the aliens. He gets up to leave, and runs into Riker. Riker has also apparently been taken over by the creature: he has a gill in his neck. So, too, has Captain Scott. The "conspirators" announce that they have known of Picard's intentions the whole time. They talk of their plan to infiltrate the Enterprise-D. Riker moves to eat, but instead he pulls out a type 1 phaser and shoots the dining security guard. When Captain Scott draws her phaser at Riker, Picard grabs at her arm and throws off her aim, allowing Riker to shoot her as well. However, Admiral Savar begins to subdue Riker with a Vulcan neck pinch.

Savar Riker neck pinch

Savar tries to render Riker unconscious with a neck pinch

Picard then grabs the security guard's phaser and uses it to take down Savar. Admiral Aaron flees the dining room, and Picard and Riker pursue and shoot him in the hallway after he returns fire. The admiral falls to the ground, and the parasite infesting him crawls out of his mouth and goes under a nearby door. They follow it to find Remmick sitting in a chair. He turns to look at it, unconcerned; Riker goes to shoot it, but Picard stops him, as the creature crawls up Remmick and enters his mouth. He swallows it, and it begins moving around in his neck. "We mean you no harm", he says as he stands, his neck noisily bulging in and out. "We seek peaceful coexistence".

File:Alien parasite mother.jpg

The mother parasite is exposed

Picard and Riker open fire with their phasers, knocking Remmick back into the chair. Riker aims higher and destroys Remmick's head, the outer layer of skin vaporizing and the rest exploding. Remmick's chest cavity begins to dissolve and a large creature breaks through with several blood soaked parasites trickling behind, screaming at the two Starfleet officers. With a disgusted look on his face, Picard opens fire again with Riker following suit, both phasers continuing until the creature is vaporized, leaving several blood soaked parasites around the chair and floor, and the decapitated smoldering remains of what was once Lieutenant Commander Remmick.

Back aboard the Enterprise-D, Picard notes in his log that Admiral Quinn will make a full recovery, and with the death of the "mother creature" inside of Remmick, the remaining parasites died while Riker reveals that Dr. Crusher had simulated the gill on the back of his neck in order to fool everyone, including Picard. As the Enterprise-D moves on into space, Data theorizes that Remmick had been transmitting a homing beacon before he died and that should the parasites receive it, they would know where to find Earth.

Log Entries

Memorable quotes

"One can... swim in moonlight?"

- Data


"How about you, Mr. Worf?"
"[grimaces and shakes his head] Swimming is too much like... bathing."

- Deanna Troi and Worf, regarding past experiences of moonlight swims


"It won't like your science officer. It DOES LIKE YOU! Vitamins... they do wonders for the body."

- Quinn

"Friendship must dare to risk, Counselor, or it isn't friendship."

- Picard, on risking his career to follow up on Walker Keel's conspiracy theory


"Apologies, Captain. We had to be sure you were really you."

- Rixx, after lowering his phaser at Picard


"I'm glad, Jean-Luc. I'm glad you're still one of us. Tell Beverly I... I said "hello"."

- Walker Keel


"Captain, you must set your phaser on kill. Stun has little effect."
"Doctor, one does not beam down to Starfleet Headquarters armed."

- Dr. Crusher and Picard


"If I could see, I'd be seeing stars."

- La Forge, after regaining consciousness from being thrown through a door


"You didn't really think we were in the dark about our intentions, did you?"
"Patience is one of our virtues, Captain. We didn't go after you; we allowed you to come after us."
"More dramatic that way, don't you think?"
"Yes. The one thing both races share is a love of theater, and you've put on a fine show."

- Aaron, Savar and Tryla Scott


"You don't understand. We mean you no harm. We seek peaceful co-existence!"

- Remmick

Background information

Script and story

Andrew Probert conspiracy concept art

An Andrew Probert concept art for the ending scene

File:Curry with Remmick model.jpg

Dan Curry with the model

  • Writer Tracy Tormé, adapting a story by Robert Sabaroff to The Next Generation, had hoped to make "Conspiracy" a commentary on the Iran/Contra Affair, but this potentially controversial notion was nixed. A plot by Starfleet officers out to undermine the Prime Directive (already introduced six episodes before in "Coming of Age"), turned out to be the result of an infestation of alien insects, not part of Tormé's original approach.
  • The original version of the script did not feature alien parasites; the conspiracy in question was simply a military coup within Starfleet. Gene Roddenberry vehemently opposed such an idea, since he believed Starfleet would never stoop to such methods; there was just no way Tormé could get away with suggesting that the Federation was anything less than a perfect government. Thus the alien angle was introduced at his insistence. (DS9 later featured a similar plot, however, in the two-part episodes "Homefront" and "Paradise Lost".)
  • Indeed, the whole idea of the episode, its violence, and its unresolved ending caused quite a stir, but Robert Justman, Rick Berman, and Rob Lewin backed Tormé against the objections of Maurice Hurley, and the show stood pretty much as he had intended it, with the topical references subtly shoved under the carpet. Things did not go so well for writer Tormé in the future; he was left with the feeling that, as far as creative freedom for writers, the second half of Star Trek: The Next Generation's second season was the best part of the series as a whole.
  • Although the ending pointed toward a possible followup of the parasite theme, none was ever produced.
  • "Conspiracy" started as the original story with the title "The Assassins". (Creating the Next Generation: The Conception and Creation of a Phenomenon, p.61)

Production

  • The opening credits to this episode include Denise Crosby's character, Natasha Yar. Yar was killed off and didn't appear regularly after "Skin of Evil".
  • Jonathan Frakes states that during the dinner scene, grub worms did "cross" his lips. Template:Brokenlink

Sets and props

Mother parasite prop

The "mother" parasite prop

Cast and characters

Music

Continuity

  • This episode marks the first appearance of a Bolian.
File:Tellarite councilors, 2364.jpg

Two Tellarites

  • The exterior footage of Starfleet Headquarters was recycled from Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home; as such, this episode is the only time Tellarites appear on TNG. They are wearing robes originally worn by Kazarites in Star Trek: The Motion Picture.
  • When Data is commenting on the orders he has just read, the computer interrupts him by saying "Thank you, sir. I comprehend." This is the only time in all of Star Trek when a Federation computer speaks in the first-person narrative ("I"). The non-canon reference work Star Trek: The Next Generation Officer's Manual explains this by stating that the Enterprise-D computer was one of the most advanced ever constructed and was in fact self-aware. It is also one of the only times the computer has expressed "frustration" with its user, more often the frustration is the other way around.
  • Amongst the logs reviewed by Data, the "Great Bird of the Galaxy" can briefly be seen.
  • This is the last appearance of the Starfleet Admiral's uniform which was seen through the first season of The Next Generation. The uniform, notable for its "triangle pip" insignia, was replaced in season two by an interim uniform which used the more familiar "boxed pip" insignia. By season three, the admiral's uniform was changed again to become the standard which was used for the rest of the series.
The Explored Galaxy

Alpha and Beta Quadrant star chart seen behind Remmick

  • A star chart featured in this episode, on the wall behind Remmick's chair, was created by the art department and shows several dozen planets and star systems mentioned in TOS and TAS. The star chart was re-used in many more TNG episodes and later appeared in the pilot episode of the Doctor Who spin-off series The Sarah Jane Adventures in the eponymous main character's attic.
  • This is the first episode of the series to feature Earth and Luna.
  • The Vulcan nerve pinch is used in this episode, however unlike TOS, a person doesn't fall unconscious after the pinch but grimaces in pain. It's possible, however, that the parasite controlling Savar may not have been performing the neck pinch properly.
  • "The Drumhead" would later establish that Admiral Norah Satie had been instrumental in uncovering the parasite conspiracy.

Awards

Reception

  • On its first airing in the UK on 20 March 1991, the BBC cut several minutes of footage from the episode (most notably the death of Remmick). In addition, Space, Canada's science fiction network, precedes this episode with a viewer discretion warning, the only The Next Generation episode to receive this.
  • A mission report by Will Murray for this episode was published in The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine Vol. 5, pp. 64-66.

Video and DVD releases

Natasha Yar's face is obscured by shadow on the video sleeve, reflecting her death in the previous volume.

Apocrypha

  • The neural parasites have thus far never reappeared on-screen, but have been shown in a comic book taking control of a spacefaring species called the "Onglaatu" in a DC TNG story entitled "The Broken Moon!".
  • The parasites have also returned in Pocket Books' new DS9 series of novels, first in The Lives of Dax, in which Audrid Dax and Christopher Pike discover that the parasites are closely related to the Trill. The last book in the Mission: Gamma series then picks this up, leading into the novel Unity in which it is revealed that the Trill symbionts and the neural parasites have been fighting a long secret war, with several species worth of hosts and governments as their weapons against each other. The parasites' latest gambit has been the continued fervor for Bajor to join the Federation; for unknown reasons this would represent a great victory to their secret plan.
  • This story arc is completed in the novel Unjoined by Andy Mangels and Michael A. Martin, in which the parasites are revealed to actually be genetically modified Trill symbionts, created on the remote Trill colony of Kurl. A deadly plague had been killing symbionts, and the experiments were intended to develop a cure. However, the experiment failed, and the symbionts so affected became violent and xenophobic - the parasites - and swore revenge on Trill society for this disaster.
  • In the Star Trek Online bonus episode "What's Left Behind", it is revealed that the parasites were bio-engineered by the Iconians as a way of controlling the Vaadwaur.

Links and references

Starring

Also starring

Guest stars

Co-stars

Uncredited co-stars

Stunt doubles

Stand-ins

References

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Library computer references

External links

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