This is a personal highlight from a season with little to have a song and dance about. The Enterprise is thrown many lightyears from home by a mistake made by two guests called Kosinski and the Traveller. Interestingly, the actor who plays the Traveller was in the running to play Data. It's a superb episode which shows the strength of the main cast as well as displaying some great guest performances from the wonderfully arrogant Kosinski and the mysterious Traveller. There are also some rather splendid graphics here and there. However, the corniness of this first season as a whole shines through when Picard is forced to encourage his crew to "believe" their way out of it, but it is a forgivable little cringe.
Star Trek: The Next Generation (TV Series)
Where No One Has Gone Before (1987)
User Reviews
Review this title26 Reviews
First decent TNG episode
bjornfranke14 January 2019
A good episode but it also means MORE Wesley Crusher in subsequent episodes!
planktonrules9 November 2014
Warning: Spoilers
In this series, I always thought there were a few weak characters--ones who generally were less than satisfying to watch. While Wesley Crusher was not the worst of these, he wasn't one of my favorite crew members, that's for sure. So, while this IS a very good episode, it also spells a broadened role for the know-it-all and annoying teen! So, it's a case of good news/bad news!
An extremely arrogant man named Kosinski has been sent to re-tune the Enterprise's engines to make them more efficient and powerful. Riker immediately takes a dislike for the guy--and it's easy to see why. However, this arrogance turns out to be hubris, as the guy turns out to be a complete idiot and his 'assistant' turns out to be the brains of the outfit. However, the brains has an agenda of his own and it takes them millions of light-years distant--so far away that it would take hundreds of years to return home!! What's next? Random characters from the crew's past magically appear and disappear throughout the ship!
The idea behind this episode is very novel and very interesting. It's well written and unusual. But, like I mentioned above, it also signals a much larger role for the child prodigy, the now Ensign Crusher.
An extremely arrogant man named Kosinski has been sent to re-tune the Enterprise's engines to make them more efficient and powerful. Riker immediately takes a dislike for the guy--and it's easy to see why. However, this arrogance turns out to be hubris, as the guy turns out to be a complete idiot and his 'assistant' turns out to be the brains of the outfit. However, the brains has an agenda of his own and it takes them millions of light-years distant--so far away that it would take hundreds of years to return home!! What's next? Random characters from the crew's past magically appear and disappear throughout the ship!
The idea behind this episode is very novel and very interesting. It's well written and unusual. But, like I mentioned above, it also signals a much larger role for the child prodigy, the now Ensign Crusher.
Excellent example of the new series' potential
ben-thayer6 December 2021
Fans and critics agree that the first and second seasons of ST:TNG were not the greatest, and although one could say confidently that the first few episodes were fun, they weren't particularly noteworthy.
This all changed with episode 5, Where No One Has Gone Before. S1 harkened back to TOS with The Naked Now, and this episode as well references the second pilot of TOS - Where No Man Has Gone Before - with more than just a nod to the episode title. In the original Gary Mitchell was given the power to make thoughts a reality, and this episode includes a similar theme.
This episode is extremely important for a couple of reasons, but the primary reason is that the enormous potential for the series was shown brilliantly with this episode. During the first season TNG was attempting to find its way with with varying results. Where No One Has Gone Before was big jump in storytelling, infusing a philosophical thread into a rousing adventure more based in pure Science Fiction than Space Opera. This is an example of the kind of episode that made TOS so great, and was a solid confirmation that great things were to come from the new series.
The episode also contains one of my favorite scenes in the entire ST franchise, where Picard encounters his long deceased mother, Yvette, whom he refers to as "Maman" (pronounced Mam-Oh) . Herta Ware's portrayal of Maman is quite simply magnificent, and the interaction between her and Patrick Stewart is nothing short of wonderful. Her dialogue where she acknowledges that she's dead but is always with him had an eerie, ethereal quality. The scene is also interesting in that it questions the very nature of reality when Maman asks her son if he sees "this place" as the end of the universe, or the beginning of it.
And so with the airing of episode 5, viewers were shown an example of the series' potential...a potential that was realized fully over seven seasons and many, many fantastic episodes with plots both adventurous and grand.
This all changed with episode 5, Where No One Has Gone Before. S1 harkened back to TOS with The Naked Now, and this episode as well references the second pilot of TOS - Where No Man Has Gone Before - with more than just a nod to the episode title. In the original Gary Mitchell was given the power to make thoughts a reality, and this episode includes a similar theme.
This episode is extremely important for a couple of reasons, but the primary reason is that the enormous potential for the series was shown brilliantly with this episode. During the first season TNG was attempting to find its way with with varying results. Where No One Has Gone Before was big jump in storytelling, infusing a philosophical thread into a rousing adventure more based in pure Science Fiction than Space Opera. This is an example of the kind of episode that made TOS so great, and was a solid confirmation that great things were to come from the new series.
The episode also contains one of my favorite scenes in the entire ST franchise, where Picard encounters his long deceased mother, Yvette, whom he refers to as "Maman" (pronounced Mam-Oh) . Herta Ware's portrayal of Maman is quite simply magnificent, and the interaction between her and Patrick Stewart is nothing short of wonderful. Her dialogue where she acknowledges that she's dead but is always with him had an eerie, ethereal quality. The scene is also interesting in that it questions the very nature of reality when Maman asks her son if he sees "this place" as the end of the universe, or the beginning of it.
And so with the airing of episode 5, viewers were shown an example of the series' potential...a potential that was realized fully over seven seasons and many, many fantastic episodes with plots both adventurous and grand.
Quite a Mind Trip
Hitchcoc26 July 2014
This is the best episode so far. What makes it so is that the laws of physics become accessible to the broad array of characters. The Enterprise and its ilk have the greatest potential but they are limited by their very structures and the forces of time and space. So we need to have a force of some kind enter the picture. This is what happens with the Traveller. We also come to realize that while raw and impulsive, Wesley Crusher is a key figure. I know he is an annoying kid, but he is the focal point here. Something must be done as the crew fly across the universe, arriving at galaxies that could only be dreamed of. The Traveller is the embodiment of an x-factor to go beyond and yet integrate the physics they are dealing with. There are some marvelous twists and turns here. Characters and objects fade in and out during warping. At some point, one has to admit some sense of defeat and draw in the forces that are not understandable to the mere mortal. I found this episode really interesting.
Finally some sci-fi!
Tundrorock26 February 2021
A true science fiction episode where time, space, and an interesting third element are explored. Really enjoyed this one. A nice break from the usual political and social dramas. Some significant character development for Wesley as well.
A new frontier
Mr-Fusion28 April 2016
'Where No One Has Gone Before' isn't perfect, but it makes for pretty good first season fair. Unfortunately, it involves a lot of Wesley and sort of fizzles out late in the game, but it does lure you in with some solid science fiction. The pompous engineering guy, Kosinski (onboard to push the ship's engine past its limits with a new formula) drives a lot of this, and I did like Riker politely-but-firmly keeping him in his place (Frakes' presence is surprising me in these early episodes). And the warp sequence was pretty cool.
But trippy effects aside, what surpassing Warp 10 does is give this a distinct sense of adventure; barriers are broken, a new galaxy is breached and we're truly sailing into the unknown. It's the kind of nervous excitement they tried to build "Voyager" on, but . . . eh, that didn't go so well.
Not bad.
7/10
But trippy effects aside, what surpassing Warp 10 does is give this a distinct sense of adventure; barriers are broken, a new galaxy is breached and we're truly sailing into the unknown. It's the kind of nervous excitement they tried to build "Voyager" on, but . . . eh, that didn't go so well.
Not bad.
7/10
You've been uninteresting
snoozejonc15 May 2021
Enterprise tinkers with its engines and appears to travel an incredible distance.
This is reasonably strong episode with a decent concept and some interesting guest characters.
It suffers a bit of clunky exposition dialogue in the introductory sequence, but aside from that the story flows very well.
There is some relatively strong focus given to Wesley Crusher, which is bad news for those who dislike the character, but I do not think he comes across as particularly unlikeable in this episode. Riker on the other hand patronises and ignores Wesley in a rather silly way that knocks some of the credibility he built in the previous episode.
The guest character of The Traveller is for me the most interesting aspect and the sci-fi concept that comes with him is quite intriguing, albeit not fully explained.
I enjoyed the visuals, sound and most performances, particularly Eric Menyuk, Stanley Kamel and (as always) Patrick Stewart. Will Wheaton does nothing wrong, but has the tendency to overuse that goofy smile a bit.
For me it's a 7.5/10 but I round upwards.
This is reasonably strong episode with a decent concept and some interesting guest characters.
It suffers a bit of clunky exposition dialogue in the introductory sequence, but aside from that the story flows very well.
There is some relatively strong focus given to Wesley Crusher, which is bad news for those who dislike the character, but I do not think he comes across as particularly unlikeable in this episode. Riker on the other hand patronises and ignores Wesley in a rather silly way that knocks some of the credibility he built in the previous episode.
The guest character of The Traveller is for me the most interesting aspect and the sci-fi concept that comes with him is quite intriguing, albeit not fully explained.
I enjoyed the visuals, sound and most performances, particularly Eric Menyuk, Stanley Kamel and (as always) Patrick Stewart. Will Wheaton does nothing wrong, but has the tendency to overuse that goofy smile a bit.
For me it's a 7.5/10 but I round upwards.
Time traveling without a tardis.
thevacinstaller28 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This episode is a bit of an appetizer to wonderful episodes that will come a long in future seasons. Space, time, thought are not the different things they seem to be. The traveler is essentially a hippie from the 1960's who is hitch hiking it's way across the universe making new discoveries. It ties up the hippy theme by having the enterprise crew use the power of love to help the Traveler return the crew to it's proper location.
Highlights of this episode:
A good sci fi trek episode.
Highlights of this episode:
- Kosinski is great as a diva/rockstar engineer. You could call him the middle management of this episode ---- taking undo credit and possessing an unearned ego.
- Riker is miffed about Kosinski being a jerk and he completely ignores Wesley's attempt to warn him about the traveler's condition. I relate this scene to moments in my life when my judgement is clouded by an agitated state. I am probably reading too much into it ---- I doubt there was a message implied in this scene.
- The visual effects look pretty good for 1987 and a definite improvement over the mess of 'The Last Outpost'.
- Wesley is apparently a gift genius according to the traveler. Picard takes this to heart and makes him an active ensign ----- we are on our way in the surrogate father arc.
- Beverly Crushers hair is vivid and vibrant in this episode.
A good sci fi trek episode.
Thought.......
gritfrombray-127 June 2007
Warning: Spoilers
This episode is one of the best of a mixed first season. When the Enterprise engines undergo tests by a warp field specialist Kosinski, his assistant, a being known only as the Traveler from Tau Alpha C, is inadvertently responsible for hurtling the ship across the other side of the galaxy. when a return is attempted they are pushed even further beyond into what can only be described as another place or time beyond what we know as space. In this realm thoughts become reality and we get a tantalizing look into Tasha's troubled past on Turkana 4, a pet targ owned by Worf and even a brief glimpse at several crew members fantasies becoming reality. The budget must have been huge for this episode! We also see Picard's dead mother for a moment in a touching scene too. This was an incredibly impressive episode for such a young show! When they realize the Traveler was responsible they unite to help the Traveler through good thoughts and feelings and the Enterprise is returned home. Picard does the proper thing and gives Wesley a commission to Acting Ensign for his help with the Traveler. Interestingly, the Traveler had earlier discussed with Picard Wesley's future would be an interesting one leaving the viewer to wonder what would become of this throughout the rest of the series run...
"I am a Traveler."
classicsoncall17 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I noticed it in the voice over narration of the very first episode of Next Generation, but the title of this one reinforces things. Whereas the original Star Trek series promised to go 'where no man has gone before', the title of this entry is 'Where No One Has Gone Before'. It's a line repeated in the story, and while I won't quibble with the change, it is a nuance that bows to political correctness twenty years after the first series debuted. Anyway, enough of that.
It seems that every episode so far has made some reference to the original series, whether directly or by reworking story elements. This one had me thinking about Star Trek's first season episode titled 'Shore Leave', in which the crew of the Enterprise took a well-earned vacation on a planet that had them imagining different realities and characters based on their earlier experiences. It took what would be considered quite ordinary and turned it into the whimsical. You had the same here with Lieutenant Worf (Michael Dorn) visualizing a Klingon targ, and Lieutenant Tar recalling a favored pet cat. This all after an arrogant and condescending scientist on board the Enterprise-D and his assistant plunged the ship some millions of light years away from their home galaxy. Young Wesley Crusher (Wil Wheaton) was put in the middle of resolving the crisis via his newly formed friendship with the alien assistant who called himself The Traveler (Eric Menyuk). It soon became apparent that The Traveler was responsible for the Enterprise's far-flung adventure, a bit of annoyance for the cavalier superiority of his boss Kosinski (Stanley Kamel).
It all came down to The Traveler's explanation of how the combined effect of thought, energy and time can be utilized to delve into the unknown with positive consequences if understood and used properly. The Traveler's advice to Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) regarding Wesley's scientific abilities in this regard implied a further role in the young man's future aboard the Enterprise-D. It all made for one of the better stories so far in the series, although if I had my way, I wouldn't have had The Traveler dressed in a set of pajamas.
It seems that every episode so far has made some reference to the original series, whether directly or by reworking story elements. This one had me thinking about Star Trek's first season episode titled 'Shore Leave', in which the crew of the Enterprise took a well-earned vacation on a planet that had them imagining different realities and characters based on their earlier experiences. It took what would be considered quite ordinary and turned it into the whimsical. You had the same here with Lieutenant Worf (Michael Dorn) visualizing a Klingon targ, and Lieutenant Tar recalling a favored pet cat. This all after an arrogant and condescending scientist on board the Enterprise-D and his assistant plunged the ship some millions of light years away from their home galaxy. Young Wesley Crusher (Wil Wheaton) was put in the middle of resolving the crisis via his newly formed friendship with the alien assistant who called himself The Traveler (Eric Menyuk). It soon became apparent that The Traveler was responsible for the Enterprise's far-flung adventure, a bit of annoyance for the cavalier superiority of his boss Kosinski (Stanley Kamel).
It all came down to The Traveler's explanation of how the combined effect of thought, energy and time can be utilized to delve into the unknown with positive consequences if understood and used properly. The Traveler's advice to Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) regarding Wesley's scientific abilities in this regard implied a further role in the young man's future aboard the Enterprise-D. It all made for one of the better stories so far in the series, although if I had my way, I wouldn't have had The Traveler dressed in a set of pajamas.
The episode is great but more importantly I've figured out why we all hate Wesley
snarky-trek-reviews7 February 2021
This is one of the better season 1 episodes. Wesley has a nice new orange sweater and what look like corduroy pants but not quite. Turns out Wesley is a warp field Mozart with an intuitive grasp of the interrelated nature of space, time, and thought. A hidden relationship between thought and the material world is a recurring theme in Star Trek that I rather like.
It's also hard not to compare and contrast the The Traveler with Q as they are both member's of species that live unconstrained by time. Portal and Nagilum also come to mind as it seems season 1 is all about humanity being tested and examined by beings with greater knowledge and power.
I think I am beginning to understand what's going on with Wesley. As a character, he is given more attention than the main cast we come to know and love by the end of the show. Why? Brace yourself for some grade A armchair psychology:
Wesley is Gene Roddenberry romanticizing a childhood he wished he himself had had. Roddenberry projected his idealized version of the future onto the world through Star Trek, and an idealized version of his childhood through Wesley. He gives Wesley the extra attention he wished he would have gotten as a boy, and we hate Wesley because we know he doesn't deserve the attention that he gets. He hasn't earned it. He's the kid who got the blue ribbon because he tried hard and the adults felt sorry for him, not because he was actually any good. We are repeatedly told he is wonderful and special, but we hate him because it never feels true.
Wesley might have worked as a character if he had been fleshed out over the course of the entire season. Seeing him earn the commission of acting ensign might have been satisfying if it took place in episode 26, perhaps after some act of valor. Instead, he's got it by episode 5 after looking over an alien's shoulder, and it just feels forced.
Verdict: Watchable and memorable, but irksome.
Fun Facts:
The Hubble can see well over ten billion light years, nine times further than Picard's estimate of the distance the Enterprise traveled in this episode.
The distance to M33 is accurately stated according to the internet.
If it takes 300 years to travel the 2.7 million light years we can approximate maximum warp to a little bit more than one light year per hour. 2,700,000 div 300 year gives 9000 light years per year. Div 365 gives 24.65 ligh years per day. Div 24 gives 1.027 light years per hour. WooWee!
Subspace radio speed can be calculated in a similar manner. 2,700,000 div 52 years (10 months and 9 weeks, really Data!?) is 5.92 light years per hour.
It's also hard not to compare and contrast the The Traveler with Q as they are both member's of species that live unconstrained by time. Portal and Nagilum also come to mind as it seems season 1 is all about humanity being tested and examined by beings with greater knowledge and power.
I think I am beginning to understand what's going on with Wesley. As a character, he is given more attention than the main cast we come to know and love by the end of the show. Why? Brace yourself for some grade A armchair psychology:
Wesley is Gene Roddenberry romanticizing a childhood he wished he himself had had. Roddenberry projected his idealized version of the future onto the world through Star Trek, and an idealized version of his childhood through Wesley. He gives Wesley the extra attention he wished he would have gotten as a boy, and we hate Wesley because we know he doesn't deserve the attention that he gets. He hasn't earned it. He's the kid who got the blue ribbon because he tried hard and the adults felt sorry for him, not because he was actually any good. We are repeatedly told he is wonderful and special, but we hate him because it never feels true.
Wesley might have worked as a character if he had been fleshed out over the course of the entire season. Seeing him earn the commission of acting ensign might have been satisfying if it took place in episode 26, perhaps after some act of valor. Instead, he's got it by episode 5 after looking over an alien's shoulder, and it just feels forced.
Verdict: Watchable and memorable, but irksome.
Fun Facts:
The Hubble can see well over ten billion light years, nine times further than Picard's estimate of the distance the Enterprise traveled in this episode.
The distance to M33 is accurately stated according to the internet.
If it takes 300 years to travel the 2.7 million light years we can approximate maximum warp to a little bit more than one light year per hour. 2,700,000 div 300 year gives 9000 light years per year. Div 365 gives 24.65 ligh years per day. Div 24 gives 1.027 light years per hour. WooWee!
Subspace radio speed can be calculated in a similar manner. 2,700,000 div 52 years (10 months and 9 weeks, really Data!?) is 5.92 light years per hour.
Average episode. Wesley was annoying.
mluinstra19 September 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The idea behind this episode was good but I found Wesley to be annoying. The traveller showing him a diagram of what looked like a space-time bubble and asking Wesley if this seemed correct. Wesley is like, maybe if you connected these two things and maybe do this....yeah, that seems correct now. Give me break. I realize that Wes is suppose to be some type of genius but that scene made me puke.
I also was not happy with the end where the captain asks the crew to think happy thoughts and send them to the traveller. Yeah, we will all just think are way out of this. I know the traveller tried to explain that space, time, and thought are all connected somehow, but this scene was just cringey to watch.
Other than those two minor complaints, it was an ok episode.
I also was not happy with the end where the captain asks the crew to think happy thoughts and send them to the traveller. Yeah, we will all just think are way out of this. I know the traveller tried to explain that space, time, and thought are all connected somehow, but this scene was just cringey to watch.
Other than those two minor complaints, it was an ok episode.
Waste of potential
robert_s0116 September 2008
Warning: Spoilers
I'd like to make this short. Not too great a script that mainly serves to point out the special talents of Wesley Crusher, finally resulting in his promotion to acting Ensign. Kamel does his job as Kosinski, a dislikable, over-confident and arrogant Starfleet engineer quite well (but is there room for such a behavior in the 24th century?), although his humiliation in the end is a bit too peaceful. A man of his character should have fought harder for his reputation, shouldn't he? The Traveler as the "gentle giant" with all his understanding and care seems a bit too plastic, and the writers' intention of creating an antagonist to the Enterprise officers tending to not taking Wesley seriously, ignroing him or whatsoever is much too obvious. His merely being used for purpose destroys a lot of potential of this not revolutionary but quite intelligent set-up. After "The naked now" (TNG 1.2) this is the second episode blown by Wesley Crusher, my dislike of whom still growing from show to show.
There also could have been a philosophic point to the show by daring to further explore the time-space-thought connection but once again Roddenberry's view is too restricted to experiment. What this show needed was a real kick off, something avantgarde leading to finally overcome the 60s TOS concept. As stated before in other comments this show's special achievements lie clearly beyond the plot. Introducing Rob Bowman (also known for his work on "The X-Files" in the 90s) we see what an innovative style of directing can make of a show. Those low angle shots of some bridge personnel are really something new as well as the exploration of the engineering set. But as good as the directing was, engineering seemed a bit empty without a charismatic chief engineer. At this early time of the series the problem of not having included that character became a problem. Argyle isn't the one to do the job and Riker does his best to compensate but that's not enough... Special effects are OK (and even outstanding for a TV show at this time) as are the performances of the leads. Data has to step aside for this one, leaving space for the guest cast's "odd couple", who for a moment seem to carry the show but the weak exit of Kasinski and the sudden disappearance of the Traveler aren't satisfying.
Yvette Picard (the Captain's mother) leaves no impression, Worf's pet grants a minimal glimpse into Klingon culture and we hear some Mozart in space (one of the first influences of classical culture on the show).
But why of all Wesley Crusher? I mean there's Worf, Tasha, LaForge and Troi (and Dr. Crusher as well) waiting for a chance to extend their characters and lift them above mere sidekick status. There really isn't enough room for another bridge officer and that's what Picard's temporary loss of mind promised us. Another bad moment is the follow-up advise scene on the bridge with Worf, LaForge and Data all beginning with "Captain..." and delivering one line each (horribly static). And what happened to sickbay? Another power failure, leaving only emergency lighting? Or night aboard the Enterprise? One of the worst sets in ST history... on the other hand the engine room is quite good and saves the set design of the episode.
The first small step to leaving 60s movie aesthetics behind has been made but the writing concept still is stuck in its uninspired, anachronistic cage leaving only minimal potential for development...
There also could have been a philosophic point to the show by daring to further explore the time-space-thought connection but once again Roddenberry's view is too restricted to experiment. What this show needed was a real kick off, something avantgarde leading to finally overcome the 60s TOS concept. As stated before in other comments this show's special achievements lie clearly beyond the plot. Introducing Rob Bowman (also known for his work on "The X-Files" in the 90s) we see what an innovative style of directing can make of a show. Those low angle shots of some bridge personnel are really something new as well as the exploration of the engineering set. But as good as the directing was, engineering seemed a bit empty without a charismatic chief engineer. At this early time of the series the problem of not having included that character became a problem. Argyle isn't the one to do the job and Riker does his best to compensate but that's not enough... Special effects are OK (and even outstanding for a TV show at this time) as are the performances of the leads. Data has to step aside for this one, leaving space for the guest cast's "odd couple", who for a moment seem to carry the show but the weak exit of Kasinski and the sudden disappearance of the Traveler aren't satisfying.
Yvette Picard (the Captain's mother) leaves no impression, Worf's pet grants a minimal glimpse into Klingon culture and we hear some Mozart in space (one of the first influences of classical culture on the show).
But why of all Wesley Crusher? I mean there's Worf, Tasha, LaForge and Troi (and Dr. Crusher as well) waiting for a chance to extend their characters and lift them above mere sidekick status. There really isn't enough room for another bridge officer and that's what Picard's temporary loss of mind promised us. Another bad moment is the follow-up advise scene on the bridge with Worf, LaForge and Data all beginning with "Captain..." and delivering one line each (horribly static). And what happened to sickbay? Another power failure, leaving only emergency lighting? Or night aboard the Enterprise? One of the worst sets in ST history... on the other hand the engine room is quite good and saves the set design of the episode.
The first small step to leaving 60s movie aesthetics behind has been made but the writing concept still is stuck in its uninspired, anachronistic cage leaving only minimal potential for development...
Panpsychism Meets Magical Thought Power
Rizar12 September 2009
Warning: Spoilers
"Where No One Has Gone Before" (Episode 5, Season 1, Air Date 10/26/87, Stardate 41263.1) engages us in a fantastic journey across the universe and beyond, plus it ponders metaphysical questions of the basis of reality and introduces a new power source -- thought power. Near the end of the episode the characters wonder whether the events were like magic or like a sleigh ride! The episode is memorable and thought provoking, but it mixes a few exotic ideas to make a unique story-brew.
The Enterprise takes on a propulsion expert, Kosinski (and his assistant), who has a record for dramatically improving efficiencies. Riker, Data, and the chief engineer believe Kosinski is a fraud (they tried his calculations in advance and found no improvement). Deanna Troi adds early mystery since she senses nothing from Kosinski's assistant as if he is like empty space. We later learn that the assistant is an alien life form, trading his knowledge for transportation on starships to observe humans. He is called the Traveler and has the ability to travel through space-time (and deeply understand propulsion, energy, and technology). We learn that Wesley Crusher could also have these capacities in time.
The Traveler finds Wesley fascinating since he sees the signs of Traveler type abilities and knowledge in him. During propulsion testing, the Traveler phases in and out of 'our' time or reality and loses control of his powers while looking at Wesley (lost in thought), setting off an accidental burst of speed. The ship hurls across the universe past warp 10 and off our scales of measurement (going 2.7 million miles to M-33).
Kosinski is extremely self confident and conceited. He assures Picard he will just do what he did before to take the Enterprise back. If he can't, then it would take them more than their lifetimes to get back to where they started. But Kosinski is mostly a sham and only his assistant can get them back home. The Traveler tries to get them home, but he is so tired he loses control again and propels the Enterprise to 'where no one has gone before', at least, where no human has gone before. The essence of the new place is thought, so some thoughts a person thinks, can become reality. Wow, what an interesting place! If I could go there, I would create elephants that fly and unicorns that shoot ectoplasm out of their horns! I like the graphics of this odd new dimension or reality (that the Traveler takes them on the second burst of speed).
I'll leave the rest of the plot alone to avoid major spoilers, but the episode includes several other ideas I enjoyed:
(1) Wesley and the Traveler discuss the possibility that space-time and thought 'aren't the separate things they appear to be'. The Traveler asserts that thought is the basis of all reality, that it acts as a propulsive energy, and that knowledge of time, propulsion, and technology gives the Traveler (or Wesley in the future) power to travel to other realities, such as the thought dimension. These are perhaps dangerous thoughts since thoughts have power and our clumsy human minds are not ready to use such power. Like Yoda, the Traveler says we must learn control first.
(2) I like the idea of needing to learn to control our thoughts. It would be interesting if the writers had applied these powers to Data. Data would have more control over his thoughts, unless his neural net is as messy as a human mind. Perhaps humans could control our thoughts better with the help of technology, but it doesn't seem likely we could control them better just by thinking really hard. We would need to evolve better mental faculties first.
(3) One other of the Traveler's ideas has philosophical parallels to panpsychism though, which is the idea that intelligence exists all through nature. David Chalmers even argues that consciousness should be considered a basic property of physics akin to space-time ('The Conscious Mind: In Search of a Fundamental Theory'). Galen Strawson argues that panpsychism follows from scientific premises ('Consciousness and Its Place in Nature: Does Physicalism Entail Panpsychism?'). These are not popular views, but popularity doesn't entail truth.
(4) However, panpsychism doesn't usually involve the idea that our thoughts can propel us through space-time, nor magically help a genius understand propulsion and technology. In fact, most contemporary physicists tend to avoid the old Einsteinian way of doing physics with thought experiments and thinking by himself ('The Fabric of the Cosmos: Space, Time, and the Texture of Reality'). And no one has good reason to believe in a thought dimension or thought power. So this idea seems more like magic: train your mind and you will gain power over space, time, and acceleration!
(5) Is Picard's mother a projected memory or a memory embedded in reality? Or is she just Picard's version of her? Is she really 'always with him'? I thought of the movie 'Solaris' here.
(6) The Traveler uses and focuses other human thoughts to intensify his power.
(7) Humans have not been interesting enough to warrant investigation from a Traveler until recently.
(8) Wesley becomes an acting ensign to set him on the Traveler path.
(9) Excitement for scientific discovery runs high (new proto-stars are forming, new thought worlds exist right outside), but safety and getting home takes precedence.
Some later episodes bring back the Traveler ('Journey's End') and panpsychism (such as in 'Haven').
Panpsychism and thought powers aren't clearly stated in the episode and seem more like a sleigh ride as Geordi suggests. Maybe it's Star Trek's way of getting around the illegitimacy of ESP in today's scientific world. But this episode was so fantastical, and mixed enough with scientific excitement for new discoveries, that it solidly held my interest.
The Enterprise takes on a propulsion expert, Kosinski (and his assistant), who has a record for dramatically improving efficiencies. Riker, Data, and the chief engineer believe Kosinski is a fraud (they tried his calculations in advance and found no improvement). Deanna Troi adds early mystery since she senses nothing from Kosinski's assistant as if he is like empty space. We later learn that the assistant is an alien life form, trading his knowledge for transportation on starships to observe humans. He is called the Traveler and has the ability to travel through space-time (and deeply understand propulsion, energy, and technology). We learn that Wesley Crusher could also have these capacities in time.
The Traveler finds Wesley fascinating since he sees the signs of Traveler type abilities and knowledge in him. During propulsion testing, the Traveler phases in and out of 'our' time or reality and loses control of his powers while looking at Wesley (lost in thought), setting off an accidental burst of speed. The ship hurls across the universe past warp 10 and off our scales of measurement (going 2.7 million miles to M-33).
Kosinski is extremely self confident and conceited. He assures Picard he will just do what he did before to take the Enterprise back. If he can't, then it would take them more than their lifetimes to get back to where they started. But Kosinski is mostly a sham and only his assistant can get them back home. The Traveler tries to get them home, but he is so tired he loses control again and propels the Enterprise to 'where no one has gone before', at least, where no human has gone before. The essence of the new place is thought, so some thoughts a person thinks, can become reality. Wow, what an interesting place! If I could go there, I would create elephants that fly and unicorns that shoot ectoplasm out of their horns! I like the graphics of this odd new dimension or reality (that the Traveler takes them on the second burst of speed).
I'll leave the rest of the plot alone to avoid major spoilers, but the episode includes several other ideas I enjoyed:
(1) Wesley and the Traveler discuss the possibility that space-time and thought 'aren't the separate things they appear to be'. The Traveler asserts that thought is the basis of all reality, that it acts as a propulsive energy, and that knowledge of time, propulsion, and technology gives the Traveler (or Wesley in the future) power to travel to other realities, such as the thought dimension. These are perhaps dangerous thoughts since thoughts have power and our clumsy human minds are not ready to use such power. Like Yoda, the Traveler says we must learn control first.
(2) I like the idea of needing to learn to control our thoughts. It would be interesting if the writers had applied these powers to Data. Data would have more control over his thoughts, unless his neural net is as messy as a human mind. Perhaps humans could control our thoughts better with the help of technology, but it doesn't seem likely we could control them better just by thinking really hard. We would need to evolve better mental faculties first.
(3) One other of the Traveler's ideas has philosophical parallels to panpsychism though, which is the idea that intelligence exists all through nature. David Chalmers even argues that consciousness should be considered a basic property of physics akin to space-time ('The Conscious Mind: In Search of a Fundamental Theory'). Galen Strawson argues that panpsychism follows from scientific premises ('Consciousness and Its Place in Nature: Does Physicalism Entail Panpsychism?'). These are not popular views, but popularity doesn't entail truth.
(4) However, panpsychism doesn't usually involve the idea that our thoughts can propel us through space-time, nor magically help a genius understand propulsion and technology. In fact, most contemporary physicists tend to avoid the old Einsteinian way of doing physics with thought experiments and thinking by himself ('The Fabric of the Cosmos: Space, Time, and the Texture of Reality'). And no one has good reason to believe in a thought dimension or thought power. So this idea seems more like magic: train your mind and you will gain power over space, time, and acceleration!
(5) Is Picard's mother a projected memory or a memory embedded in reality? Or is she just Picard's version of her? Is she really 'always with him'? I thought of the movie 'Solaris' here.
(6) The Traveler uses and focuses other human thoughts to intensify his power.
(7) Humans have not been interesting enough to warrant investigation from a Traveler until recently.
(8) Wesley becomes an acting ensign to set him on the Traveler path.
(9) Excitement for scientific discovery runs high (new proto-stars are forming, new thought worlds exist right outside), but safety and getting home takes precedence.
Some later episodes bring back the Traveler ('Journey's End') and panpsychism (such as in 'Haven').
Panpsychism and thought powers aren't clearly stated in the episode and seem more like a sleigh ride as Geordi suggests. Maybe it's Star Trek's way of getting around the illegitimacy of ESP in today's scientific world. But this episode was so fantastical, and mixed enough with scientific excitement for new discoveries, that it solidly held my interest.
Exponential propulsion for the Enterprise?
bkoganbing2 October 2017
This episode of TNG has visiting scientist Stanley Kamel better known as Dr. Kroeger from Monk aboard the Enterprise. He's a scientist who's quite full of himself even though both Commander Riker and Data question the validity of his claims that he can increase the travel capabilities of the Enterprise exponentially. But his assistant Eric Menyuk has everyone's curiosity aroused. All but Wil Wheaton who accepts Menyuk at face value and becomes his friend.
The experiment does succeed, but it flings the Enterprise millions of light years from earth to a galaxy where strange thing are happening. It's all to do with the Traveler as Menyuk is called. What can he do to reverse the situation?
A favorite TNG episode of mine. And it has a lot to do with the further adventures and maturing of callow youth Wesley Crusher.
The experiment does succeed, but it flings the Enterprise millions of light years from earth to a galaxy where strange thing are happening. It's all to do with the Traveler as Menyuk is called. What can he do to reverse the situation?
A favorite TNG episode of mine. And it has a lot to do with the further adventures and maturing of callow youth Wesley Crusher.
Damn good episode if you don't hate Wesley
mrmystery9919 November 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Maybe it was because I was smoking weed while watching but i found this episode pretty brilliant. People clearly really hate Wesley but I've gotta say I really don't find him that annoying. Feel like everyone on ship doesn't want him around most of the time so its quite funny. Most of the time he genuinely knows something important but no one listens to him haha.
Anyway, the episode itself was really intriguing. Travelling the furthest and fastest anyones ever been, a conversation with some all-knowing alien who disappears from existence, and a few crazy hallucinations/reality shifting moments which were pretty trippy (btw watching this high on LSD for the first time would be a mental experience lol).
Maybe I'm just soft but I found the ending pretty great too. Wesley gets promoted to the bridge and you just feel like it's a big deal. It's not like I REALLY wanted him hanging around the bridge but it's a sweet moment. Every kids dream tbf.
Damn good episode. Give it a watch.
Anyway, the episode itself was really intriguing. Travelling the furthest and fastest anyones ever been, a conversation with some all-knowing alien who disappears from existence, and a few crazy hallucinations/reality shifting moments which were pretty trippy (btw watching this high on LSD for the first time would be a mental experience lol).
Maybe I'm just soft but I found the ending pretty great too. Wesley gets promoted to the bridge and you just feel like it's a big deal. It's not like I REALLY wanted him hanging around the bridge but it's a sweet moment. Every kids dream tbf.
Damn good episode. Give it a watch.
Where Dreams Become Reality
Samuel-Shovel11 June 2019
Warning: Spoilers
In "Where No One Has Gone Before", a Star Fleet engineer and his assistant come aboard the Enterprise to do a few tests and adjustments to the ship's warp engine. The engineer is a bit of a jerk and does whatever he wants. A miscalculation by him causes the Enterprise to shoot off into space to a time and place never before explored. Now he must figure out how to get everyone back. Only Wes realizes that it's actually the assistant doing all the real work. This assistant is a traveler from a far off race that has never interacted with Federation races before. He has capabilities beyond that of Star Fleet and understands time, space, and the power of thoughts at an ability far beyond anything we can comprehend.
This new space the Enterprise is in is pretty wild. Everyone's underlying thoughts can become reality, for better or for worse. Picard knows they need to get back home while they still have some graspe of reality. He asks all personnel to send thoughts the Traveler's way to help everyone get back. The Traveler is dying and in his last act in our time and space, brings the Enterprise back to where they were before. Picard names Wes an honorary ensign for all the help he gave in supporting the Traveler. This comes after the Traveler's parting message to Picard was to cultivate Wes's mind since he is a once in a generation genius. The Enterprise heads out for their next adventure with Wes on the bridge.
Wes is the absolute worst part of this show thus far. Unfortunately for us, this is a very Wes heavy episode. Him and his dumb sweaters have their fingerprints all over it. That being said, I still enjoy this episode to some extent. We get some weird psychedelic visuals on the bridge. Plus I love everyone's surrealist thoughts that become reality. My favorite is the guy eating lunch when suddenly he's in an orchestra. I like Picard's scene with his mom. I found it pretty touching.
I'm not 100% sure I fully comprehend what this plot is supposed to entail with the correlation between time, space, and your inner thoughts but it has that sci-fi quality that I find really endearing. I don't have much to explain why I like this episode but I do.
This new space the Enterprise is in is pretty wild. Everyone's underlying thoughts can become reality, for better or for worse. Picard knows they need to get back home while they still have some graspe of reality. He asks all personnel to send thoughts the Traveler's way to help everyone get back. The Traveler is dying and in his last act in our time and space, brings the Enterprise back to where they were before. Picard names Wes an honorary ensign for all the help he gave in supporting the Traveler. This comes after the Traveler's parting message to Picard was to cultivate Wes's mind since he is a once in a generation genius. The Enterprise heads out for their next adventure with Wes on the bridge.
Wes is the absolute worst part of this show thus far. Unfortunately for us, this is a very Wes heavy episode. Him and his dumb sweaters have their fingerprints all over it. That being said, I still enjoy this episode to some extent. We get some weird psychedelic visuals on the bridge. Plus I love everyone's surrealist thoughts that become reality. My favorite is the guy eating lunch when suddenly he's in an orchestra. I like Picard's scene with his mom. I found it pretty touching.
I'm not 100% sure I fully comprehend what this plot is supposed to entail with the correlation between time, space, and your inner thoughts but it has that sci-fi quality that I find really endearing. I don't have much to explain why I like this episode but I do.
The first truly good episode of TNG
rcyoung-0242624 April 2023
This is the first good episode of TNG, but it still doesn't meet the promise of its successors.
An arrogant warp drive expert, who may or may not be what he says he is, boards the Enterprise, and enjoys pontificating about things that go beyond the understanding of the crew.
At the same time, his mysterious assistant befriends Wesley Crusher, and they try to troubleshoot an apparent malfunction in the warp drive that propels The Enterprise far beyond its capabilities.
Many people deride this episode in part because they find the character of Wesley Crusher annoying, While I find that to be a very reasonable attitude, in retrospect, it is unfair to judge an entire episode based on one poorly written character.
In the end, it is a fairly good episode, that should be watched, since it is consequential to the rest of the series.
An arrogant warp drive expert, who may or may not be what he says he is, boards the Enterprise, and enjoys pontificating about things that go beyond the understanding of the crew.
At the same time, his mysterious assistant befriends Wesley Crusher, and they try to troubleshoot an apparent malfunction in the warp drive that propels The Enterprise far beyond its capabilities.
Many people deride this episode in part because they find the character of Wesley Crusher annoying, While I find that to be a very reasonable attitude, in retrospect, it is unfair to judge an entire episode based on one poorly written character.
In the end, it is a fairly good episode, that should be watched, since it is consequential to the rest of the series.
Management taking a bow for the labor of the workers.
amusinghandle23 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I do believe in the power of willpower but my monkey brain has not evolved to the point where I can believe that the power of thought can propel a ship to a section of space where thought becomes reality.
I like this episode ---- The traveler and Kosinski both provided memorable performances and I absolutely loved Wesley's ridiculous pirate sweater.
I maintain that Wesley Crusher is best served by episodes that make him feel like a regular human being and not a rare genius with God powers but hey --- I'll go with it.
In my personal fan fiction, I imagine a scene where engineer Argyle makes Kosinski do some mindless labor intensive activity like scrubbing down the warp coil guardrail with a look of satisfaction on his face.
I ponder what was the original plan for Wesley? I get a good laugh out of the 'God' Wesley episodes of S1 but it is pretty clear that the development team made a dramatic change from S2 onward (to the benefit of the character).
I like this episode ---- The traveler and Kosinski both provided memorable performances and I absolutely loved Wesley's ridiculous pirate sweater.
I maintain that Wesley Crusher is best served by episodes that make him feel like a regular human being and not a rare genius with God powers but hey --- I'll go with it.
In my personal fan fiction, I imagine a scene where engineer Argyle makes Kosinski do some mindless labor intensive activity like scrubbing down the warp coil guardrail with a look of satisfaction on his face.
I ponder what was the original plan for Wesley? I get a good laugh out of the 'God' Wesley episodes of S1 but it is pretty clear that the development team made a dramatic change from S2 onward (to the benefit of the character).
ST TNG: Where No One Has Gone Before; The Travelling Salesman
WhiteFerrari24 August 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Perhaps too slowly paced, since it takes 20 minutes for the episode to get to the 'imagination' universe. Also, those 20 minutes are less enjoyable due to utilising Riker, Wesley and a first-time engineer, three weak characters.
The highlight of the episode is the 'imagination' universe that provides very good characterisations and visuals (except the fire), as well as a subtext for the isolation that the members of the Enterprise feel being away from home on any given mission. Many of these thoughts could be regarded as activities they fear losing or have already lost and for others more general fears.
I could do without the Wesley characterisations and importance. Unfortunately, the interesting 'sci-fi plot' feels secondary or purposed to simply elevate Wesley's position and development as a genius child which sullies the episode.
The direction was very good, with some thoughtful choices of lighting and engaging uses of slow zooms.
Final note: Picard's shockingly conspicuous ADR'd line "have the boy sent to the Bridge, Number One" is a cracker.
The highlight of the episode is the 'imagination' universe that provides very good characterisations and visuals (except the fire), as well as a subtext for the isolation that the members of the Enterprise feel being away from home on any given mission. Many of these thoughts could be regarded as activities they fear losing or have already lost and for others more general fears.
I could do without the Wesley characterisations and importance. Unfortunately, the interesting 'sci-fi plot' feels secondary or purposed to simply elevate Wesley's position and development as a genius child which sullies the episode.
The direction was very good, with some thoughtful choices of lighting and engaging uses of slow zooms.
Final note: Picard's shockingly conspicuous ADR'd line "have the boy sent to the Bridge, Number One" is a cracker.
No Man or No One . . .
russem317 April 2006
Warning: Spoilers
ST:TNG:06 - "Where No One Has Gone Before" (Stardate: 41263.1) - this is another episode which bears homage to an Original Series episode - in this case in the title (the 3rd episode of the first season "Where No Man Has Gone Before"). This is also the episode that introduces The Traveler (played by Eric Menyuk) as a traveler that combines the futuristic concept (even for the 24th century) of space, time, and thought to get around the universe. Indeed, the Enterprise, though the Traveler's help, gets stuck at the edge of the universe with only him to get them back! A very interesting concept for an episode - I think they can surely expand on this concept for a feature film. The Traveler also makes a comeback in a future TNG episode (though not until the very end of the 7th season).
Boring - Pass on this episode. You won't be sorry...
jdcoates30 January 2020
S1E5 Discussion
iarbo8 April 2020
Warning: Spoilers
S1E5
Kosinski keeps saying he's got everything approved from star fleet commmand. Is there no way for the Enterprise to verify that? Who does the Enterprise get their orders from?
Last episode we Geordi so excited to go Warp 9, which made me think it was the fastest the ship could go. Turns out it wasn't. They broke the all-time speed record by going "over warp 10". It feels nice to witness some Star Trek history.
There was some interesting philosophical discussions about time, space, and thought all being the same thing. It's an interesting concept that I can't say I've thought of before. Only issue is space is tangible. We've been there. It's unlike the other two in that way. Eh, not worth getting in to.
We got shown more of Yar's rape gang backstory. Apparently she stopped for a cat while running from one of those gangs? I mean, okay? On the flip side there was a nice moment with Picard and his mom. It seemed like they had a good relationship.
There was certainly an urge at first to explore but I thought Picard shut it down perfectly and logically. The interaction was something along the lines of: "So many opportunities for new studies!" "But who would we report our findings to?"
I really liked how they handled Wesley's promotion. Having the alien tell Picard he really is a savant but that he needs time to learn is a solid way to justify promoting such a young kid. So now we have Wesley, Acting Ensign, who has an opportunity to become permanent, which is cool.
Felt like the overall theme of the episode was that when we all work together towards a common goal we can break records. We can accomplish great things as a team. Picard got everyone on the ship to focus on The Traveler and getting them home and because of that they were able to return.
Last episode we Geordi so excited to go Warp 9, which made me think it was the fastest the ship could go. Turns out it wasn't. They broke the all-time speed record by going "over warp 10". It feels nice to witness some Star Trek history.
There was some interesting philosophical discussions about time, space, and thought all being the same thing. It's an interesting concept that I can't say I've thought of before. Only issue is space is tangible. We've been there. It's unlike the other two in that way. Eh, not worth getting in to.
We got shown more of Yar's rape gang backstory. Apparently she stopped for a cat while running from one of those gangs? I mean, okay? On the flip side there was a nice moment with Picard and his mom. It seemed like they had a good relationship.
There was certainly an urge at first to explore but I thought Picard shut it down perfectly and logically. The interaction was something along the lines of: "So many opportunities for new studies!" "But who would we report our findings to?"
I really liked how they handled Wesley's promotion. Having the alien tell Picard he really is a savant but that he needs time to learn is a solid way to justify promoting such a young kid. So now we have Wesley, Acting Ensign, who has an opportunity to become permanent, which is cool.
Felt like the overall theme of the episode was that when we all work together towards a common goal we can break records. We can accomplish great things as a team. Picard got everyone on the ship to focus on The Traveler and getting them home and because of that they were able to return.
A Senior Trekker writes.........................
celineduchain19 December 2021
Writing in 2021, it is great to see that I am not the only person taking a retrospective look at Star Trek, the Next Generation. When this series was first released in 1987, a little less than twenty years after the end of the Original Series, many people thought that, without Captain Kirk and his crew, it couldn't really be Star Trek. However, original creator Gene Roddenberry, was fully invested in the casting, writing and overall look of the new series, so let's see how it shaped up:
This is an excellent, classic science fiction story written by alumni Diane Duane and Michael Reaves, with input from Gene Roddenberry himself. (If only modern Trek writers would take note). The vignettes of the Terror at the End of the Universe are extremely well realised, NOT IN SPITE OF but perhaps BECAUSE OF limitations of budget and special effects. (if only modern Trek producers would take note).
Eric Menyuk as the mysterious Traveller and Stanley Kamel as his hapless sidekick, Kosinski play extremely well against each other and we are introduced to the concept of Wesley Crusher as a teenaged mathematical genius. OK, so not many people were all that thrilled at the time to have such a smart-ass kid on the bridge of the Enterprise but actor Will Wheaton has grown up to become such a genuine, warm hearted adult that we have completely forgiven him.
(Senior Trekker scores every episode with a 5)
This is an excellent, classic science fiction story written by alumni Diane Duane and Michael Reaves, with input from Gene Roddenberry himself. (If only modern Trek writers would take note). The vignettes of the Terror at the End of the Universe are extremely well realised, NOT IN SPITE OF but perhaps BECAUSE OF limitations of budget and special effects. (if only modern Trek producers would take note).
Eric Menyuk as the mysterious Traveller and Stanley Kamel as his hapless sidekick, Kosinski play extremely well against each other and we are introduced to the concept of Wesley Crusher as a teenaged mathematical genius. OK, so not many people were all that thrilled at the time to have such a smart-ass kid on the bridge of the Enterprise but actor Will Wheaton has grown up to become such a genuine, warm hearted adult that we have completely forgiven him.
(Senior Trekker scores every episode with a 5)
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