Star Trek: Lower Decks

10 Best Episodes of Star Trek: Lower Decks - Season 2

Embark on a journey through the cosmos with "Star Trek: Lower Decks," a delightful animated series that offers a fresh perspective on the iconic Star Trek universe. Set on the U.S.S. Cerritos, one of Starfleet's less glamorous ships, this show follows the adventures of the lower-ranking crew members in the year 2380. Ensigns Mariner, Boimler, Rutherford, and Tendi navigate a blend of work responsibilities, friendships, and unexpected sci-fi challenges, all while injecting humor and heart into every episode.

The series brings a light-hearted touch to the typically serious Star Trek franchise, making it a standout among fans and newcomers alike. With its witty humor, clever references to past Star Trek lore, and endearing characters, "Star Trek: Lower Decks" strikes a perfect balance between reverence for the source material and a fresh, comedic take on the space exploration genre. Each episode offers a mix of sci-fi action, character development, and laugh-out-loud moments that keep viewers eagerly tuning in for more.

Whether you're a die-hard Trekkie or just dipping your toes into the vast universe of Star Trek, "Star Trek: Lower Decks" has something for everyone. From quirky character dynamics to outlandish sci-fi scenarios, this series delivers an entertaining and enjoyable ride through the cosmos. So grab your favorite starship snacks and prepare for a warp-speed adventure with the crew of the U.S.S. Cerritos as they navigate the ups and downs of life in Starfleet.

Written by Sophie and last updated on nov 14, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E1

#10 - Strange Energies (Season 2 - Episode 1)

Approximately three months after the events of the season one finale, the U.S.S. Cerritos is dispatched on a mission where it ends up in a sci-fi event resulting in "strange energy," which Commander Ransom inadvertently absorbs.

The episode was rated 7.43 from 790 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E4

#9 - Mugato, Gumato (Season 2 - Episode 4)

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The U.S.S. Cerritos is dispatched to a planet to investigate an unexplained sighting of a dangerous Mugato.

The episode was rated 7.52 from 723 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E6

#8 - The Spy Humongous (Season 2 - Episode 6)

Anomaly consolidation day on the U.S.S. Cerritos leaves the Lower Deckers with mixed emotions. Captain Freeman attempts to negotiate peace on the Pakled home world.

The episode was rated 7.56 from 703 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E3

#7 - We'll Always Have Tom Paris (Season 2 - Episode 3)

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Assigned a special task by Dr. T'Ana, Tendi enlists Mariner for help. On the U.S.S. Cerritos, Rutherford is consumed by a bridge crew mystery.

The episode was rated 7.57 from 745 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E2

#6 - Kayshon, His Eyes Open (Season 2 - Episode 2)

Our Lower Deckers have trouble bonding with Ensign Jet Manhaver, who has been assigned Boimler’s bunk and shift duties. Meanwhile, we get a glimpse of Boimler’s life on the U.S.S. Titan, which is more intense than he thought it would be.

The episode was rated 7.59 from 756 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E7

#5 - Where Pleasant Fountains Lie (Season 2 - Episode 7)

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In the episode "Where Pleasant Fountains Lie" of Star Trek: Lower Decks, Mariner and Boimler find themselves stranded on an uninhabited planet with a mischievous sentient computer. Mariner doubts Boimler's readiness for dangerous missions, leading to a clash of perspectives on their capabilities. The dynamic between the two characters unfolds as they navigate the challenges posed by the artificial intelligence. With unexpected twists and clever resolutions, the A-story keeps viewers engaged till the very end.

Meanwhile, on the Cerritos, Lt. Commander Billups faces a test of his engineering skills against an old rival. This B-story adds a humorous touch as Billups' eccentric mother intervenes with a quirky plan involving virginity and royal aspirations. The episode cleverly weaves in elements of humor and character development, showcasing the diverse personalities aboard the starship and adding depth to the narrative. As the plot unfolds, viewers are treated to a delightful blend of sci-fi adventure and comedic moments.

With nods to classic *Star Trek* themes and the signature humor of Lower Decks, "Where Pleasant Fountains Lie" offers a solid, albeit not groundbreaking, installment in the series. From playful jabs at the trope of malevolent computers to quirky family dynamics and personal growth among the crew, this episode delivers a mix of entertainment and character-driven storytelling. Fans of the show will appreciate the familiar yet refreshing elements that make this episode a worthwhile addition to the vibrant universe of Star Trek.

The episode was rated 7.67 from 684 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E5

#4 - An Embarrassment of Dooplers (Season 2 - Episode 5)

In the episode "An Embarrassment of Dooplers" from Star Trek: Lower Decks, Mariner and Boimler embark on a quest to locate a legendary Starfleet party, delving into their complex dynamic post-Boimler's departure for the Titan. The emotional depth in their interactions adds a layer of authenticity to their friendship, making it a compelling storyline to follow. As they navigate challenges and confront unresolved issues, the episode beautifully showcases the bond between these characters and the growth they experience together.

Additionally, the episode explores Rutherford's struggle with memory loss and his quest to prove himself post-amnesia. Tendi's unwavering support and encouragement highlight the strength of their friendship, culminating in a moment of self-realization and camaraderie. The storyline effectively balances humor with heartfelt moments, offering viewers a glimpse into the characters' personal journeys and growth.

Moreover, the introduction of the quirky Dooplers adds a touch of whimsy to the episode, with their unique ability to duplicate under embarrassing situations. The playful yet inventive solution to the Dooplers predicament and the clever references to Star Trek lore enhance the entertainment value of the episode. While some may find certain elements like the Dooplers and the car chase too silly, the episode's blend of character-driven narratives and humorous escapades creates a well-rounded viewing experience that resonates with fans of the series.

The episode was rated 7.72 from 731 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E8

#3 - I, Excretus (Season 2 - Episode 8)

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In the episode "I, Excretus" of Star Trek: Lower Decks, the U.S.S. Cerritos welcomes a consultant who shakes things up by having the lower deckers and bridge crew swap duties. What starts as a typical role reversal scenario evolves into a clever twist where the drill instructor rigs the test against them to justify her job. This unexpected turn adds a fun second gear to the storyline, showcasing the crew's resourcefulness and teamwork in the face of adversity.

One highlight of the episode is the Boimler B-story, featuring a hilarious homage to *First Contact* and Boimler's relentless quest for the high score in the Borg Resistance simulation. As he unwittingly becomes the "Excretus" in a comedic turn of events, viewers are treated to top-notch Boimler-based comedy that keeps escalating in amusing ways. The episode's blend of humor and Star Trek references, from classic scenarios to deep cuts, adds layers of entertainment for fans of the franchise.

Amidst the chaos and laughter, "I, Excretus" also delivers heartwarming moments, like the commanders acknowledging the lower deckers' contributions with an officer's replicator. This gesture symbolizes mutual understanding and appreciation, culminating in a touching callback to Boimler's desire for lobster mac and cheese. With its mix of humor, camaraderie, and sci-fi nostalgia, this episode continues the trend of stellar storytelling in what promises to be a fantastic season of Star Trek: Lower Decks.

The episode was rated 7.87 from 690 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E9

#2 - wej Duj (Season 2 - Episode 9)

In the episode "wej Duj" of *Star Trek: Lower Decks*, we see Boimler navigating the challenge of finding a bridge buddy while his friends are preoccupied during a long warp trip on the USS Cerritos. The lighter tone on the Cerritos offers comedic moments such as Shax's outburst about Bajor and Mariner bonding with Captain Freeman in the holodeck. The situational humor escalates as Boimler unwittingly joins a group pretending to be from Hawaii, culminating in a heartwarming win for him by the end.

Meanwhile, the focus shifts to the Klingon and Vulcan counterparts aboard the Cerritos, M’ach and T’Lyn, who face internal and external conflicts. M’ach's journey to impress his captain takes a dark turn when he discovers unsettling truths about his leader's intentions, adding depth to his character. On the other hand, T’Lyn's story on the Vulcan ship showcases her resilience in the face of adversity, earning her sympathy and leaving viewers hoping for more of her character in future episodes.

The intertwining narratives culminate in a surprising twist involving the Pakled being manipulated by a rogue Klingon general, adding layers of intrigue to the anthology-style storytelling. The episode skillfully weaves together elements of drama, humor, and classic *Star Trek* references, keeping fans engaged and excited for what's to come in the season finale. With a mix of lighthearted moments and compelling character development, "wej Duj" exemplifies the evolving narrative prowess of *Star Trek: Lower Decks*, promising an enjoyable viewing experience for fans of the series.

The episode was rated 7.92 from 722 votes.

Star Trek: Lower Decks - S2E10

#1 - First First Contact (Season 2 - Episode 10)

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In the season two finale of Star Trek: Lower Decks, titled "First First Contact," the U.S.S. Cerritos embarks on a crucial first contact mission to assist another starship in need. The episode is packed with new characters, fresh story arcs, and a classic Star Trek approach to overcoming challenges, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what's next for the series.

The finale delivers nail-biting moments as the crew of the Cerritos faces the daunting task of navigating through a radioactive debris field to save a damaged sister ship from crashing into a nearby planet before initiating first contact. The episode seamlessly blends humor with the more serious and heroic aspects of a traditional Star Trek storyline, showcasing the crew's determination and bravery in the face of danger.

The emotional conflicts add depth to the episode, particularly focusing on Captain Freeman's potential promotion and Mariner's complex relationship with her mother. The interactions between the characters, including touching moments between Mariner and her fellow crew members, further highlight the show's ability to balance comedy, excitement, and drama. With a mix of heartwarming character development and thrilling sci-fi action, "First First Contact" solidifies Star Trek: Lower Decks as a standout series in the Star Trek universe.

The episode was rated 8.04 from 713 votes.

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