Science fiction requires a certain amount of science fact to make the stories believable. In the lead up to "The Next Generation," Gene Roddenberry sent a memo to the production team expressing frustration over the balancing act between the two. Jeff Stepp returns to The Trek Files to talk about the similarities in writing for drama and scientific documentary and the possible coolness of "deathstrings."

Document and additional references: Warp Speed Cellular Plasma "Deathstrings" Gizmos - April 28, 1987

The Trek Files Season 12 on Memory Alpha

All episodes and documents: The Trek Files on Memory Alpha

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