The Lanthanites of Star Trek: Unveiling their Enigmatic Lifespan

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 introduces the Lanthanites, a new alien species, to Star Trek canon. Commander Pelia (Carol Kane), the new Chief Engineer of the USS Enterprise, is the first Lanthanite seen in Star Trek. Pelia replaces the late Lt. Hemmer (Bruce Horak), who was a blind Aenar, as the head Engineer of the flagship of the United Federation of Planets.

Pelia, despite not initially appearing as an alien, is actually a member of a new species in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. The prequel series, set before Star Trek: The Original Series, features a multitude of alien races. Lt. Spock (Ethan Peck) is half-Vulcan, while Commander Una Chin-Riley AKA Number One (Rebecca Romijn) is an Illyrian, a race that utilizes genetic engineering in their culture. Additionally, Strange New Worlds includes familiar Star Trek antagonists such as the reimagined Gorn, Romulans, and Klingons. However, Pelia and the Lanthanites bring something fresh to the Star Trek universe, and here is what we currently know about them.

What Is A Lanthanite In Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (& How Long Do They Live?)

Lanthanites are an exceptionally long-lived humanoid race. Commander Pelia, despite her human-like appearance, can be distinguished by her unique accent, which was recognized by Ensign Nyota Uhura as Lanthanite. Spock mentioned a group of Lanthanites who resided on Earth in disguise until the 22nd century, implying that Pelia may not be the only one on the Federation's home planet and could have been a part of that gathering. However, if Commander Pelia is allowed to serve in Starfleet, it suggests that Lanthanites must be a member race of the Federation.

The true immortality of Lanthanites remains uncertain, but they undoubtedly possess an exceptionally long lifespan, though this longevity may come with the drawback of experiencing perpetual boredom. Interestingly, Pelia shares similarities with Guinan from Star Trek: The Next Generation. Guinan is an El Aurian, a race known for their extended lifespans and exceptional listening abilities. Guinan had been residing on Earth since the 19th century and established her bar, Ten Forward, in the 20th century, before joining the USS Enterprise-D in the 24th century. It is possible that Pelia has been on Earth for as long as, if not longer than, Guinan.

How Old Is Commander Pelia In Star Trek: Strange New Worlds?

The age of Commander Pelia in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds remains undisclosed. Despite initial skepticism, Pelia's remark to Spock about her absence from starship service for "a hundred years" was genuine. It is likely that Pelia exceeds the age of one hundred, but the true extent of a Lanthanite's lifespan and Pelia's actual age are still unknown. Pelia's acquaintance with Spock's mother, Amanda Grayson (Mia Kirshner), whom she confided in as a Lanthanite, does not provide substantial insight into Pelia's longevity.

As of now, the lifespan of Lanthanites, their mortality, and any additional abilities they possess are yet to be revealed. Commander Pelia's introduction as the first representative of her species in Star Trek adds a captivating dynamic to Strange New Worlds. Hopefully, the second season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds will shed more light on Lanthanites and their potential abilities beyond their remarkable longevity.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 streams Thursdays on Paramount+.