A Space Vessel for All Seasons

I'm a nerd. Here's proof...


I've started thinking about how different Star Trek vessels offer metaphors for various life phases. It all started because Star Trek: Deep Space Nine has been our outlet this year as we've been tied to the house with sleeping kids. In the series' commentary (see... true nerdiness revealed), one of the creators talked about how setting the series on a space station forced the characters into situations of self-exploration (as opposed to galactic exploration - quickly wrapping things up and moving along through the galaxy like star ships of previous series). I feel that this is my "space station" phase of life - where I'm mostly staying put as the galaxy is brings new, interesting challenges to try my mettle.


Odo’s Bucket~ Inhabitant is capable of becoming almost anything, but is highly dependent on “recharge time.” Subject begins to denature/melt down if recharge time is delayed. (Infancy)

Voyager~ “Lost” in space. Traveling through new, uncharted territory. Great anticipation, great fun, great uncertainty, great learning opportunities. (Childhood)

Borg Cube~ “You will be assimilated. Resistance is futile.” Inhabitants form a "collective" where each member dresses alike, thinks alike, follows the crowd, etc. (Need I say more? – Adolescence)



Enterprise~ It’s mission?... “To explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations…” (Young Adulthood/College/Unfettered Travel – note that this vessel appropriately fries the Borg "collective" : )

Valiant~ Star ship fighting enemy in war zone. Initially commanded by seasoned captain with crew of an elite group of students (young). Ship saw tremendous successes and tragic defeat - both fueled by innocence and zeal of youth. (Mission)

Valiant Escape Pod~ Carries valiant survivors through space until they can be picked up by the next vessel (or phase of life) to come along. Wait time is uncertain. One is fortunate if this uncertain phase can be shared with others who have braved the battle. (Post-Mission)

Ferengi Transport Ship~ This vessel is designed to carry one toward profit – application may be financial or other profit. (Education/Professional Training)

Trill Host~ Two sentient, high quality beings – each with a distinct, highly accomplished background – join. The unification process takes time to adjust to and can be a painful growth process which can strengthen both parties if survived. (Marriage)

“Lightship”~ Bajoran solar-sail vessel propelled by solar currents - just like a sailboat is propelled by wind. Sails spread as wide as possible and are angled in a way that will catch as much opportunity for progress as possible. In this vessel's maiden voyage, it was not until all hope was lost that it was unexpectedly caught by a huge force that it was carried to the its destination. (Job Search)

Deep Space Nine~ Space station and grounds for enormous self discovery. Instead of voyaging out to explore the universe, the crew generally stay put and explore themselves. It is in this exercise that the best and worst of beings is revealed. (Parenting Young Children - especially multiples ; )

Defiant~ Highly charged ship. Has potential for undetected surveillance and strong defense (weapons could even overwhelm ship itself if not carefully tempered). Deployed on a variety of missions – delivering people/goods, exploration, etc. But, no matter what it is engaged in, ship is at the ready to come in screaming in defense of its threatened when they are away. (Parenting Teens)

Deep Space Nine Following Evacuation~ Station experiences sudden reduction in population. Former residents have often left unexpectedly – leaving a mess for the remaining skeleton crew to sort through. Station is always available for emergency docking. Former inhabitants may return as they find that conditions in space are less hospitable. (Empty Nesting)

Odo’s Bucket (Yes, we've come full circle.)~ Wise inhabitant is capable of becoming most anything/performing most any task. But is also highly dependent on “recharge time.” Subject begins to physically denature if recharge needs are not met. Subject is usually evolved beyond many of the failings that trip others and is more concerned with things of intangible import such as "links." (Retirement/Old Age)

Wormhole~ Where the “prophets” dwell. Observes “planets’ children” from above and intervenes when necessary and appropriate. Most often, intervention is only recognized by those faithful who are looking for it. Operates on totally different time continuum. (Death/Heaven)

Rubicon~ Shrunken, unseen vessel and crew working to thwart enemy efforts that threaten crew of starship. (If there is truly a "Guardian Angel" phase of existance, this is its metaphor. ; )