Watch Star Trek: The Next Generation

Star Trek: The Next Generation is a science fiction television show that aired from 1987 to 1994. The show is set in the 24th century, 78 years after the original Star Trek series. The show follows the crew of the USS Enterprise-D, led by Captain Jean-Luc Picard (played by Patrick Stewart).

The crew's mission is to explore the universe, seek out new life and new civilizations, and to boldly go where no one has gone before. Alongside Captain Picard, the main characters include Commander Riker (played by Jonathan Frakes), Lieutenant Commander Data (played by Brent Spiner), Chief Engineer La Forge (played by LeVar Burton), Security Chief Tasha Yar (played by Denise Crosby), Chief Medical Officer Crusher (played by Gates McFadden), Ship's Counselor Troi (played by Marina Sirtis), and Wesley Crusher (played by Wil Wheaton).

The show was notable for its diverse and complex characters, its exploration of complex social and political issues, and its optimistic view of the future. Over the course of its seven seasons, the show tackled subjects such as racism, sexism, gender identity, politics, war, and nationalism.

The technology portrayed in the show was ahead of its time and became a staple in science fiction TV and movies. The most notable technology is the holodeck - a room that uses holographic technology to simulate any environment, including historical events and fantasies. The characters also use communicators which inspired the invention of cell phones, and virtual monitors used as computers which are now used worldwide.

Some of the show's most memorable episodes include "The Measure of a Man", where Data is put on trial to determine whether he can be considered sentient and have rights as an individual, and "The Inner Light", where Picard is transported to a planet where he lives an entire lifetime in a matter of minutes. Other notable episodes involve time travel or interactions with alien races such as the Borg and the Klingons.

The show was also known for its impressive visual effects and set designs. The production value was high, and the sets were elaborate, with the USS Enterprise-D's bridge being a standout design.

Star Trek: The Next Generation received critical acclaim and a massive following among fans of the sci-fi genre. The show was nominated for 18 Emmy Awards, winning several, including Outstanding Drama Series.

In addition to the main cast, the show featured a number of notable guest stars throughout its run, including Whoopi Goldberg, Michelle Forbes, Robert O'Reilly, Colm Meaney, Dwight Schultz, Patti Yasutake, and Suzie Plakson.

In conclusion, Star Trek: The Next Generation was a groundbreaking sci-fi show that achieved both critical and commercial success. The show's diverse, complex characters, optimistic view of the future, and exploration of social and political issues made it a beloved classic that has stood the test of time.

Star Trek: The Next Generation is a series that ran for 7 seasons (180 episodes) between September 28, 1987 and on Paramount Television