Exploring "Ad Astra Per Aspera" in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

The second episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season two, "Ad Astra per Aspera," addresses the issue of genetic engineering ban in the Federation, which was introduced in Deep Space Nine. The episode focuses on Number One's court martial, where her Illyrian heritage is revealed, and she is accused of violating the genetic engineering ban. The trial episode is compelling and well-written, with Yetide Badaki's performance as Neera Ketoul stealing the show. The episode retcons Number One's portrayal in "The Cage" and gives Rebecca Romijn a long-overdue spotlight.