Object
Ancient Solar Generator
A compact, late‑twentieth‑century solar power unit embedded in the derelict's cramped control area: pitted metal casing with faded paint, corroded seals, small analog meters and hardwired connectors. It emits a faint electrical hum and supplies only a trickle of conditioned power sufficient for ventilation, instruments and non‑volatile memory. Data scans it with a tricorder and treats it delicately; Worf restrains from brute force as Data manually slides a handle to avoid damaging wiring and analogue panels. Its brittle, still‑running state reads as fragile evidence of long‑dead technology and anchors the away team's careful, forensic approach.
2 appearances
Purpose
To convert ambient solar energy into electrical power for the derelict's local systems, maintaining environmental controls, instrumentation and limited conditioned power.
Significance
Provides the lone, fragile source of power that enables Data to preserve and extract a legacy disk—forcing restraint over force, enabling forensic recovery and directly advancing the plot point (the disk’s data leads to identification of a cryo‑survivor). Its continued hum creates urgency and shapes the team's tactics.
Appearances in the Narrative
When this object appears and how it's used