Every Time Data Takes Charge on Star Trek: TNG

Lt. Commander Data's Commanding Moments

Lt. Commander Data, the android officer aboard the USS Enterprise-D in Star Trek: The Next Generation, showcases his exceptional leadership skills on five distinct occasions where he assumes command of the starship. Throughout the seven seasons of TNG, Data, under the leadership of Captain Jean-Luc Picard, demonstrates his android capabilities and unwavering dedication to duty in critical situations. Despite facing skepticism and bias due to his artificial nature, Data consistently proves his competence as a commander, outwitting challenges with his astute decision-making and resolute leadership.

'Angel One' - Season 1, Episode 14

In the episode 'Angel One,' Data assumes command when a viral outbreak incapacitates the crew, leaving him as the sole capable officer to lead the Enterprise. Despite the unforeseen circumstances, Data efficiently manages the ship's operations while overseeing a delicate negotiation on a planet governed by women. His rationality and immunity to the virus prove instrumental in ensuring the success of the mission.

Background:

The Enterprise is on a diplomatic mission to Angel One, a planet inhabited by an all-female society. However, a virus incapacitates the entire crew, leaving Data as the only able-bodied officer. In this challenging situation, Data must navigate the delicate negotiations with the Angel One leaders while managing the ship's operations.

Data's Leadership Skills:

Rationality and immunity to the virus allow him to remain focused and objective, enabling him to efficiently manage the ship's operations. Despite the challenging circumstances, Data demonstrates his diplomatic skills in handling the negotiations with the Angel One leaders, ensuring the safety of the crew and the success of the mission.

Star Trek TNG Angel One Data empty bridge - Data takes command when everyone comes down with a bad flu. -

'Brothers' - Season 4, Episode 3

In 'Brothers,' Data's commanding prowess is further highlighted when his programming is temporarily overridden, compelling him to take control of the Enterprise. Displaying strategic acumen, Data navigates the ship through a crisis, confronting his creator and facing his malevolent twin brother. His decisive actions and unwavering resolve in the face of adversity underscore his capabilities as a leader.

Background:

Data's programming is temporarily overridden by his creator, Dr. Soong, who implants a malevolent twin brother program. The twin brother, Lore, takes control of the Enterprise and threatens the crew. In this critical situation, Data must confront Lore and regain control of the ship.

Data's Leadership Skills:

Data exhibits exceptional strategic acumen in navigating the ship through the crisis caused by his malevolent twin brother. His decisive actions and unwavering resolve demonstrate his capabilities as a leader, ensuring the safety of the crew and the successful resolution of the crisis.

Star Trek TNG Night Terrors Picard Data - Data takes command when everyone needs a good night

'Night Terrors' - Season 4, Episode 17

During the episode 'Night Terrors,' Data steps up to command the Enterprise when the crew experiences sleep deprivation-induced hallucinations. His logical approach and cooperation with Counselor Troi enable the resolution of the crisis, showcasing his adaptability and empathy as a leader. Data's prioritization of the crew's well-being reflects his commitment to their safety and efficiency.

Background:

The crew experiences sleep deprivation-induced hallucinations that threaten the safety of the ship. In this challenging situation, Data is the only officer unaffected by the hallucinations, making him the ideal candidate to assume command. He must cooperate with Counselor Troi to resolve the crisis and ensure the safety of the crew.

Data's Leadership Skills:

Data demonstrates a logical approach and adaptability in handling the crisis caused by the crew's hallucinations. His cooperation with Counselor Troi showcases his empathy and understanding of human psychology, enabling the successful resolution of the crisis. Throughout the episode, Data's unwavering commitment to the crew's well-being and safety shines through his leadership.

'Redemption, Part II' - Season 5, Episode 1

In 'Redemption, Part II,' Data assumes control of the USS Sutherland amidst Klingon civil unrest, facing skepticism from his subordinates. Despite the initial doubts, Data's strategic acumen and innovative tactics lead to the successful thwarting of a Romulan incursion, earning him commendation from Captain Picard. His unwavering confidence and resilience in adversity solidify his reputation as a capable and resourceful commander.

Background:

The Enterprise is caught in the midst of a Klingon civil war, and Data is assigned command of the USS Sutherland, a Klingon warship. However, he faces skepticism from his Klingon subordinates, who question his leadership due to his artificial nature.

Data's Leadership Skills:

Despite facing skepticism and bias, Data's strategic acumen and innovative tactics enable him to successfully thwart a Romulan incursion. His unwavering confidence and resilience in the face of adversity earn him commendation from Captain Picard and solidify his reputation as a capable and resourceful commander.

Star Trek TNG Gambit II Data Troi - Data takes command when Captain Picard and Commander Riker go missing. -

'Gambit, Part I' & 'Gambit, Part 2' - Season 7, Episodes 4 & 5

Data's leadership is put to the test in 'Gambit' as he assumes command in the absence of Captain Picard and Commander Riker. Faced with a complex rescue mission and internal dissent, Data exhibits exceptional decision-making and adaptability, ensuring the safety and success of the Enterprise. His trust in his abilities and collaborative spirit with the crew exemplify his dedication to duty and the well-being of his comrades.

Background:

Captain Picard and Commander Riker are captured by the Cardassians, leaving Data to assume command of the Enterprise. In their absence, he faces a complex rescue mission and internal dissent among the crew.

Data's Leadership Skills:

Data's exceptional decision-making and adaptability shine through as he handles the complexities of the rescue mission and manages internal dissent among the crew. His trust in his abilities and collaborative spirit with the crew not only ensures the safety and success of the Enterprise but also highlights his dedication to duty and the well-being of his comrades.

As Data continues to evolve and explore his humanity, his experiences in command highlight his capabilities as a leader and his unwavering commitment to the principles of Starfleet. While his journey towards self-discovery remains a central theme, Data's command moments underscore his exceptional competence and resilience in the face of adversity, solidifying his legacy as a remarkable officer aboard the USS Enterprise-D.