Original Air Date: September 24, 2017 – February 11, 2018
Star Trek: Discovery Season 1 marks the return of the *Star Trek* franchise to television with a fresh and ambitious take on the beloved universe. The season introduces a new crew, a new ship, and an intricate storyline set in the *Star Trek* timeline, exploring themes of conflict, discovery, and redemption.
Season 1 of *Star Trek: Discovery* takes place roughly a decade before the original *Star Trek* series and follows the crew of the USS Discovery as they navigate a galaxy on the brink of war with the Klingon Empire. The season delves into the backstory of Michael Burnham, a Starfleet officer with a complicated past, and explores the impact of her actions on the ongoing conflict and her own personal redemption.
Michael Burnham, portrayed by Sonequa Martin-Green, is the central character of the series. A former mutineer and adopted sister to Spock, Burnham's journey is a significant focus of Season 1. Her struggle with her past actions, her role in the war with the Klingons, and her quest for redemption drive much of the season's narrative.
Captain Gabriel Lorca, played by Jason Isaacs, is the commanding officer of the USS Discovery. His unconventional methods and enigmatic personality make him a pivotal character. Lorca's leadership style and hidden motivations play a crucial role in the season's storyline.
Commander Saru, portrayed by Doug Jones, is the first officer of the USS Discovery and a Kelpien. His unique perspective and fear-based physiology contribute to his role as a leader and his interactions with the crew. Saru's character development is a key element of the season.
Dr. Hugh Culber, played by Wilson Cruz, is the chief medical officer aboard the USS Discovery. His relationship with Lieutenant Paul Stamets and his contributions to the crew's well-being are central to the season's narrative and emotional depth.
Lieutenant Paul Stamets, portrayed by Anthony Rapp, is the ship's astromycologist and a key figure in the Discovery's use of the spore drive. Stamets’ work and his relationship with Dr. Culber are significant aspects of the season.
Ensign Sylvia Tilly, played by Mary Wiseman, is a cadet who becomes a valued member of the USS Discovery crew. Her character provides both comic relief and a sense of camaraderie among the crew members.
The season explores the impact of war on individuals and societies, focusing on the conflict between the United Federation of Planets and the Klingon Empire. Themes of warfare, strategy, and the morality of conflict are central to the narrative.
Michael Burnham's journey of redemption is a major theme of the season. Her struggle to atone for her past mistakes and regain her place in Starfleet highlights themes of forgiveness, personal growth, and the quest for self-redemption.
The season delves into questions of identity, loyalty, and belonging. Characters grapple with their roles, their relationships, and their sense of purpose amidst the turmoil of war and personal conflict.
As the title suggests, exploration and discovery are core themes. The USS Discovery’s mission involves exploring new frontiers and uncovering mysteries, both in space and within the characters themselves.
The series premiere introduces Michael Burnham and the conflict with the Klingons. The episode sets the stage for the season's overarching plot and explores the early tensions and dynamics of the crew.
The battle between the USS Shenzhou and the Klingons escalates, leading to significant consequences for Michael Burnham and the crew. The episode continues to build on the conflict established in the premiere.
Michael Burnham joins the USS Discovery and begins to adjust to her new surroundings. The episode explores her integration into the crew and introduces the unique aspects of the Discovery's mission and technology.
The crew faces challenges involving the Discovery's spore drive technology. The episode delves into the implications of this new technology and its impact on the crew and their mission.
Captain Lorca faces a dangerous situation while being held captive by the Klingons. The episode explores themes of leadership, courage, and the personal sacrifices made in the face of adversity.
The episode focuses on Michael Burnham's personal journey and her relationship with her family. Themes of identity, connection, and the impact of past events are central to the narrative.
Time loops and repeated scenarios create a sense of urgency as the crew faces a new threat. The episode explores the consequences of time manipulation and the effects on the crew's dynamics and mission.
The crew embarks on a mission to a hostile planet to gather intelligence. The episode highlights themes of strategy, survival, and the moral implications of their actions.
The season's mid-point culminates in a dramatic confrontation with the Klingons. The episode combines high-stakes action with significant character developments and plot twists.
The Discovery is stranded in a parallel universe, leading to new challenges and revelations. The episode explores themes of alternate realities, identity, and the impact of different circumstances on the crew.
The crew continues to navigate the Mirror Universe, facing new threats and complex situations. The episode delves into themes of power, deception, and the struggle for control.
As the crew's mission in the Mirror Universe intensifies, the stakes are raised with significant plot developments and character revelations. The episode explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of achieving one's goals.
The crew confronts major threats and faces crucial decisions as they attempt to resolve the conflicts introduced throughout the season. The episode combines action with emotional and narrative resolution.
The season finale concludes the primary conflicts and sets the stage for future developments. The episode wraps up major storylines and provides closure to the season's arcs.
Season 1 of *Star Trek: Discovery* received a mix of reviews from critics and fans. The series was praised for its high production values, complex characters, and bold storytelling. The exploration of new themes and the darker, serialized approach were seen as fresh and innovative. However, some critics noted issues with pacing and character development, and the show faced mixed reactions from longtime *Star Trek* fans due to its departure from the traditional *Star Trek* formula.
Season 1 of *Star Trek: Discovery* marked a new era for the *Star Trek* franchise, introducing a fresh perspective and new characters while exploring complex themes and narrative structures. Despite some controversy and mixed reviews, the season set the stage for future developments in the series and contributed to the ongoing evolution of the *Star Trek* universe.
