Star Trek: The Next Generation

In 1987, a new Star Trek series was aired. Featuring a new crew, a new ship, and a jump of about 80 years, Star Trek again came into popular television culture. Initially quite poor, TNG gradually matured. The premise was essentially the same, that of a crew exploring the galaxy, but the formula transferred well and Star Trek TV franchise was reinvigorated. The series had more success than its progenitor, lasting a full seven seasons.

In-universe, the principle changes in the decades between TOS and TNG were the expansion of the United Federation of Planets, bringing greater security, colonization, and trade with other powers. Especially relevant was the easing of tensions with the Klingons, and while some hostility remained it was low enough for StarFleet to allow Klingons to act as officers within its ranks. At the same time, the Romulans withdrew into isolationism.

Overall the show has less of a rough-and-tumble 'frontier' feel to it, and more of a scientific, diplomatic feel, compared to TOS - reflecting the reality faced by the new characters.

Record 589 - TV series - Last update 18 Nov 2007, 22:10:26

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