Object
Main Transporter Beam (USS Enterprise — Containment Lock)
A bridge‑operated transporter projection from the USS Enterprise's main transporter system: a focused, shimmering golden‑blue column or filigreed lattice of phased energy that can lock on and cradle a small cylindrical escape pod or craft in stasis. It emits a low mechanical hum and faint vibration through deck plating when engaged. Controlled and monitored from bridge consoles and the transporter room (operators include Data, Riker, Worf, Picard), the beam holds a matter pattern for dematerialization/rematerialization and exhibits pattern instability under certain interference conditions. Used tactically as a containment lock to secure, present, or retrieve pods/objects mid‑transit.
2 appearances
Purpose
To dematerialize, transmit, and rematerialize matter (personnel or small objects) at range; here used to retrieve and secure an escape pod while preserving its pattern and evidentiary state.
Significance
Serves as the plot device that enables recovery of the empty escape pod, converting a sensor anomaly into irrefutable physical evidence and escalating the diplomatic confrontation; it anchors chain-of-custody and the crew's immediate tactical response.
Appearances in the Narrative
When this object appears and how it's used