Star Trek: Strange New Worlds “Terrarium”, Season 3, Episode 9 Review

Stardate: 2198.7

LT Erica Ortegas updates her personal log as the Enterprise enters a sector of space infamous for strange phenomena—exactly the kind of territory Division 12 investigates. Ghosts, gravimetric anomalies, and the unexplainable. Ortegas, sporting a sleek and stylish uniform, lingers over a photo of her brother Beto, whispering “Hermanito” (“little brother”) before retrieving a letter he left behind. He’s not there to see her off.

So Much Awesome Science… and So Many Concerns

In the science lab, Ortegas, Spock, and Uhura review puzzling sensor data. A mysterious gravity wave—one even Spock can't fully explain—has rendered their probes nearly useless, bouncing around like beach balls. Uhura adds that the sensors are delivering conflicting reports.

Ortegas suggests a bold plan: fly a shuttle directly into the anomaly zone using manual controls to gather data firsthand. Spock expresses concern—he’s never seen this level of gravimetric volatility without a visible source. Uhura is equally worried, especially with Ortegas just recently cleared for duty by Dr. M’Benga.

Still, Spock supports the mission. He provides a sensor module to enhance the shuttle’s capabilities and a predictive map for navigation. Ortegas jokes that she’ll collect so much data it’ll be “coming out of his ears.” Spock, characteristically literal, takes the comment seriously—and the playful teasing continues. Uhura and Ortegas giggle, enjoying a rare moment of levity in the lab.

This trio—Ortegas, Uhura, and Spock—are a joy to watch together. Their shared love of science creates a natural, compelling chemistry.

Mission Briefing

Spock and Uhura give Ortegas a final pre-flight rundown. Uhura warns that comms may be disrupted and stresses the importance of constant contact. She also reminds Ortegas to deploy the subspace monitoring buoy at the end of the survey.

Spock adds a final caution: the area is filled with unidentified signals and unknown variables. Ortegas suspects Starfleet may have an ulterior motive for the mission. As she and Uhura leave the lab, they laugh about Spock’s disappointed expression—he looks like a kid denied a rollercoaster ride. Erica admits she almost feels bad for him.

Ortegas also reveals this mission is a chance to shake off lingering trauma from her Gorn experience. Uhura gently asks if she’ll be okay out there alone. Ortegas replies: flying is her happy place. Uhura tells her to be safe—and enjoy the ride.

Solo Flight Begins

Ortegas boards the Archimedes and checks in with the bridge. Captain Pike confirms launch status, and Uhura monitors the start of the survey. The shuttle encounters heavy turbulence from the gravity waves, but Ortegas handles it with ease—and delight.

After the data collection is complete, Pike gives the order to return. Number One teases him—he’s clearly envious. He denies it, but not very convincingly. Another charming crew moment.

Into the Wormhole

As Ortegas turns to return, she loses helm control. A force is dragging the shuttle. She alerts the Enterprise and attempts visual confirmation—a wormhole has appeared out of nowhere.

The Enterprise’s sensors finally detect it—but too late. Comms begin to fail. Ortegas tries to steer clear but is pulled in, shouting that she’s heading “into the eye of the hurricane.” Then the line goes dead. Her transponder disappears. Number One solemnly reports: there’s no sign of the shuttle.

LT Ortegas is gone.

What Happens Next?

• Did LT Ortegas escape the wormhole?

• Why didn’t sensors detect it sooner?

• Did the Enterprise complete their original vaccine delivery?

• And what exactly is a Metron?

Final Thoughts

This was a fascinating episode—full of unknown perils, dire consequences, exciting science, and the thrill of uncharted space. It gave us wild piloting sequences, mysterious alien encounters, and wormhole travel, all framed by a deeply personal mission for Ortegas.

It was thrilling to watch the Enterprise crew do the unthinkable—follow her into the wormhole—and succeed. The episode showed how science, determination, innovation, and belief in each other could overcome impossible odds. It was emotionally rich, intellectually engaging, and satisfyingly intense.

The camaraderie between the “Science Nerds”—Uhura, Spock, and Ortegas—was a highlight. Their shared passion and humor were a grounding force in the face of cosmic chaos.

Every cast member shined, and the episode delivered both high-stakes action and heartfelt character development.

What did you think?

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• Loved it
• Hated it
• So/So