This week on Science Faction, Devon survives a questionable amusement park experience, Ben remembers a friend through poetry, and we pay tribute to a science fiction legend. Later, we discuss political polling ahead of the midterms, explore a Star Trek comic that’s delivering some of the franchise’s best storytelling, and debate the state of modern science fiction television.

Real Life: Farm Adventures and Fond Farewells

Devon vs. the Cornado

Devon recently visited Yesterland Farm, where he encountered an attraction called the Cornado. Unfortunately, Devon isn’t a fan of spinning rides, making this particular experience less than enjoyable. We discuss his adventure and the questionable decisions that sometimes accompany family outings. Some rides are memorable for all the wrong reasons.

Remembering Walter Koenig

We take a moment to remember Walter Koenig, who passed away at the age of 90. Best known as Pavel Chekov in the original Star Trek series and its films, Koenig helped define one of science fiction’s most beloved franchises. His later portrayal of the sinister Alfred Bester on Babylon 5 further cemented his place in science fiction history.

We reflect on his remarkable career and the legacy he leaves behind.

Read more in Entertainment Weekly’s tribute to Walter Koenig.

Ben Remembers Kevin Patrick Sullivan

Ben shares a personal remembrance of Kevin Patrick Sullivan through his poem, Party for Misfits. It’s a thoughtful reflection on friendship, loss, and the people who leave lasting impressions on our lives.

You can read Ben’s poem, Party for Misfits, on his website.

Future or Now: Politics, Starships, and Storytelling

Political Polling and the Midterms

Devon turns our attention to the upcoming midterm elections, focusing on polling and the political landscape in Texas. We discuss what the numbers might tell us, how reliable those predictions really are, and what the results could mean for the broader political landscape.

Star Trek: The Last Starship — Bold, Bleak, Brilliant

Ben has been reading Star Trek: The Last Starship, and he’s thoroughly impressed. The comic explores a darker, more challenging side of the Star Trek universe while embracing the ambitious storytelling and moral complexity that make the franchise compelling.

Ben considers it some of the best Star Trek storytelling currently available. It’s bold in its approach, bleak in its atmosphere, and brilliant in its execution. For fans looking for something fresh that still feels distinctly Star Trek, this series deserves attention.

Learn more through TrekMovie’s coverage of The Last Starship, or check out the first collected volume, which covers approximately half the story.

The Orville and Star Trek’s Writing Problem

Our Star Trek discussion continues with a rant inspired by the video Star Trek Is Taking Writing Advice From the Worst Place. The conversation turns toward The Orville, modern Star Trek, and the challenges of keeping a beloved science fiction franchise relevant without losing what made it special.

We discuss the importance of strong writing, the balance between nostalgia and innovation, and whether today’s science fiction shows are learning the right lessons from their predecessors. There are some strong opinions about what makes good Star Trek, and we’re certainly not shy about sharing them.

Watch the video that inspired the discussion: Star Trek Is Taking Writing Advice From the Worst Place.

Join the Conversation

Have you read Star Trek: The Last Starship? What do you think about the direction of modern Star Trek, and where does The Orville fit into the conversation? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Join us for another episode of Science Faction Podcast, where science fiction, real life, and the occasional unnecessary tangent collide.