Rob Reviews: Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, episode 5 “Series Acclimation Mil”

Last week, I said that the newest episode of Starfleet Academy, “Vox in Excelso,” was the best of the young series so far. This week, the showrunners said, “Hold my synth-ale.”

The creators described this episode—officially titled “S.A.M.” (Series Acclimation Mil)—as a “love letter to Deep Space Nine.” To be honest, that description doesn’t do it justice.

The focus is on S.A.M., the titular holographic cadet. We learn that S.A.M. is a “Syntho-Emissary” sent by the Holostromic Assembly (a race of sentient holograms). Her task is to observe “Humanoids”—or “organics,” as the holograms call us—to determine if her race should interact with “us” again. It has a wonderful Mork & Mindy vibe, harkening back to Mork’s weekly reports to his supervisor, Orson.

Since S.A.M. is an “Emissary,” who better to learn from than the greatest Emissary in Trek history: Captain Benjamin Sisko?

The Mystery of “The Sisko”

We learn that by the 32nd century, Sisko’s fate at the end of DS9 has become an “Amelia Earhart” type mystery. While some believe he simply joined the Prophets, others aren’t so sure. S.A.M. decides she needs to solve the riddle of what happened to the Emissary of the Prophets.

INCOMING SPOILERS:

For long-time Trekkies, this episode is the ultimate fan service. S.A.M. interacts with a holographic recreation of Jake Sisko (with a heartbreaking voiceover by Avery Brooks himself!). But the real kicker? S.A.M.’s instructor, Commander T’Pau-Dax (played by Tawny Newsome), is revealed to be the current host of the Dax symbiont! Dax is still alive in the 32nd century, bridging the gap between the eras.

The Heart of the Story

As much as this was “fan service,” it was really about the way Ben Sisko lived his life. S.A.M. pours over the “trivial” nuggets of his existence: his love for baseball, his cooking, and the incredible bond he had with Jake.

That’s what got to me. Hearing Jake talk about his father reminded me why “The Visitor” is one of the most beloved episodes in the franchise. Avery Brooks famously fought to ensure the father-son dynamic between him and Cirroc Lofton was authentic and strong. Having listened to Lofton’s podcast, The 7th Rule, it’s clear that he holds Brooks in the same high regard Jake held Ben.

In learning about “The Sisko,” S.A.M. realizes she doesn’t have to be the Emissary her people expect. She can—and must—do things her own way.

The Critique

If there’s a drawback, it’s the humor. This was Tawny Newsome’s first co-writing credit for the show, and while I love her work, the B-plot felt like it was “dripping with Lower Decks style” in a way that didn’t quite fit. The plot involving Captain Neera trying to prep the head of the War College for a meeting felt forced and “silly.” For a series this young, it was awkward seeing these characters act so… out of character.

Final Verdict

Despite the clunky B-story, “S.A.M.” is an instant classic. It is a standout of the “New Trek” era and one of the most heartwarming episodes of the entire franchise.

RATING: Even higher than the highest possible recommendation. Required viewing.

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