In this episode of Trekking Through Compliance, we consider the compliance lessons from Assignment Earth, which aired on March 29, 1968, Star Date unknown—the final episode of Season 2.
The Enterprise has used the light-speed breakaway factor to propel itself backward in time. It can monitor Earth communications while on a historical fact-finding mission to study how Earth survived 1968. While in orbit, the Enterprise accidentally intercepts a transporter beam originating more than 1000 light years away, beaming aboard interplanetary agent Gary Seven and his partner Isis, disguised as a black cat. His mission is to prevent Earth from destroying itself before it can become a peaceful society by destroying an orbital nuclear weapons platform launched by the US.
Chekov notes the arming of the warhead aboard the Enterprise, who attempts to contact Kirk for instructions. When the communicator beeps and the rocket base guard picks it up, Spock nerve pinches the guard and tells Scott to beam Kirk and himself to Seven’s apartment. They watch Seven explode the warhead 104 miles above the ground and meet Seven’s cat, Isis. Records from the Enterprise show that such an event occurred and that it caused the nuclear powers to reassess the risks of placing hydrogen bombs in orbit.
Commentary
This unique episode, intended as a backdoor pilot for a spin-off, features characters Gary Seven, Terry Gar, and Isis the Cat. Gary Seven’s mission, advanced technology, and covert interventions serve as a springboard to discuss compliance lessons such as effective oversight, challenges in regulating emerging technologies, and ethical considerations in surveillance. By drawing parallels with current compliance issues, Tom Fox offers valuable insights for compliance professionals navigating these complex areas.
Key Highlights
- Episode Synopsis
- Gary Seven’s Mission
- Roberta Lincoln’s Involvement
- Rocket Sabotage and Conclusion
- Compliance Lessons from Assignment Earth
Resources
Excruciatingly Detailed Plot Summary by Eric W. Weisstein
