From Earth's Ukraine region in eastern Europe.  Berkowitz was bound to life as an instructor at Starfleet Academy, doubling as a substitute teacher in civilian schools in her personal time, but desperately wanted to go to space.  A student's remark about "experience" prompted her to finally push for a field position.  After a few years aboard minor ships, she earned a transfer to the Arcadia in 2385.  She serves as the ship's "second officer", acting in place of the first officer when necessary.  Has relatives in Starfleet, including an uncle, Anton Berkowitz, who commands the USS James Kirk.

Ambitious yet good-humored, fiery yet respectful, Alex Crimson is one of the most selfless women in Starfleet.  Born into a British family, she proved to be a child prodigy, graduating ahead of her class and entering Starfleet Academy at a young age to escape an overbearing family.  By cultivating contacts with various species in her travels, she amassed a network of "informants" and used this to further her career, eventually winning a job on the Arcadia.  She acts as a diplomatic liaison and assistant to the Captain, but seeks the First Officer's job.  This makes her a bit competitive with Simone Berkowitz (not to mention the ship's first officer).

Exact, punctual and duty-conscious, Eresh'ta takes his job seriously. He confers directly with the CO & XO on crew assignments and scheduling. Despite a preference for protocol, he rarely hesitates to speak his mind, sometimes causing him to overstep his bounds. He may seem hostile at times, though it is an Andorian trait and not to be taken personally. Eresh'ta often seems to be sulking or pensive--chin down, head inclined; however, like all Andorians, he is in fact "reading" others through the sensory inputs of his antennae.

Flighty & flirty.  Known for perky wit & attitude, this bubbly blond's main interest seems to be running around the ship greeting others with a wave and a smile, and laughing at what she thinks is funny.  Has a very distinct giggle.  Moon serves as the captain's yeoman.  She had a long-time crush on Captain April (and wished she was more than just his yeoman) although he appointed her tasks just to get her out of his hair.  Some think she is an "airhead", but she's smarter than she lets on.  Has an uncanny (and unparalleled) ability to complete tough jobs on short notice.

Cosmo, a writer, joined Starfleet hoping to acquire "material" by way of his journeys. During a mission early in his career he discovered a love for piloting starships, and dedicated himself to that goal. He keeps a huge collection of miniature models of every known Starfleet vessel there is in his quarters. Tries to be a womanizer (with dubious success). Still writes occasionally.

Once a member of the nomadic "Gatherers"--Acamarian space pirates who lived poorly, raiding other ships and systems for over a century--Bron Marlang is a rough-raised, ready-born pilot, as at home in a fighter cockpit as he is at the helm of a starship, and a bit of a maverick. He's been flying since childhood. Rank, title, protocol--all mean little to Marlang, who sees them as illusions, excuses for power and insecurity. He believes in respect, the kind that must be earned. He can be annoyingly straightforward. Others often misunderstand Marlang, thinking he is intentionally rude when he is just being direct. His tendency to "tell it like it is" gets him into conflict with those who aren't prepared for his blunt brand of honesty. Hates politics and "wind-bags". Over 2 meters tall (6'7"), muscular like a bodybuilder. Spends time in the gym. He's married to the Andorian Ty'amra.

Hails from an Aldebaran Colony moon. Avoids counselors except for routine evaluations. At age seventeen, Kells piloted an experimental shuttle built by her uncle; on the second flight she somehow crashed the vessel. Navigation involved a cyberneural implant, which Kells had removed afterwards. Kells' parents died before then; her uncle died shortly thereafter. (Whether these deaths were related to the incident is unknown.) Kells served in the Arcadia's Security Department before the ship was decommissioned in 2382, but soon after the vessel was relaunched in 2385, she transferred to Flight Control.

An aloof, reserved individual, something of a mystery, even to Starfleet. It is not known exactly how he got to be in Starfleet, let alone aboard the Arcadia. Some have rumored that he may be a former Q, as he apparently knows more about the crew than they know themselves, as well as about the universe at large. Topaz keeps to himself most of the time, stepping forward only when called upon or in special circumstances. His large stature, serious nature and harrowing stare makes him somewhat eerie and intimidating. An avowed pacifist, he abhors violent confrontations and claims to understand the true spirit of Starfleet.

A "shining spirit" aboard the Arcadia; a bright soul who loves life. Always ready with a smile and a laugh. Great sense of humor, likes to make jokes and loves to sing (and she's good at it). Her demeanor has made her an unofficial "morale officer". Spends time in the company of Topaz; they seem to share a bond. Has a son, Dallas, named after her home, the New Dallas Colony.  In reality, this character is an homage to my dear departed niece, Adelle (1977-2004).  --Webmaster

Assigned to the Arcadia at Starbase 138 in 2382. Celina holds an air of mystery: In her quarters she keeps portraits of strangers with whom she feels an inexplicable "connection". She supposedly had a twin sister who died in their youth, but there are no records to support this. This mystery continues to puzzle even her, despite attempts to get to the truth, which have failed so far. Musically talented, she likes to sing and dance in holodeck recreations of dance halls from the history of various planets. An accomplished martial artist, she and Lily Kells often work out together.

Tactical Officer aboard Arcadia since 2380. Like all Caitians, he manifests a "purr"-like vocal quality in his speech similar to cats, and possesses senses of smell and hearing beyond those of humans, as well as better eyesight. Though usually soft-spoken and docile, M'Rrai can be vicious and agile in hand-to-hand combat.

Xelatians require mechanical assistance to survive and to move outside of their native environment, including face masks and exoskeletons. As a result, X'el [ek-sel] moves with stiff, mechanical precision. His voice and linguistic pattern sounds almost robotic. X'el's quarters are environmentally customized to simulate Xelatian native conditions, inhospitable to most outsiders. He remains completely covered on duty and never exposed, except for the 'hair' on his head (which may not be hair at all).

The "Dr. Doolittle" of the Arcadia. Kazarites are well-known as ecologists, maintaining close ties to their natural environment. They have limited telekinetic powers, can "teleport" themselves mentally, and communicate with animals, devoting much of their time to caring for them--perhaps, as it has been speculated, because they enjoy the conversation. Vald is training to become a sort of "shepherd-shaman" among his people.

Exchange officer, part of a program to better relations with the race designated by the Borg as "Species 8472"--beings inhabiting another dimension called "fluidic space". This officer, known as "Medellia [meh-dee-lee-uh] Gray", can (like most of its kind) "transform" into members of other species via isomorphic injections. Gray's forms vary from a purplish-gray humanoid to complete transformation at the microcellular level, but "she" usually appears as a human-like female with cross-shaped pupils. This species' dense genetic structure and ability to survive in space, unaided, poses distinct tactical and security advantages.

As was once the case with Benzites, Zaranites cannot breathe oxygen. To survive in class-M environments, Vardos wears a breathing mask with twin air hoses leading to a small backpack which supplies him with fluorine gas. His voice, filtered by the mask and the universal translator, bears a metallic quality, not unlike a synthesizer. The mask also protects sensitive organs against harmful components in external surroundings. Off-duty, Vardos wears jewelry made from the horns of a native animal, the berbotjahaa, including an ornate necklace, the top part of which depicts his family name, the bottom his own.

One of Arcadia's handful of Tellarite crewmembers, among whom he spends much of his off-duty time. Like most of his species, he's rather outspoken and confrontational, yet his abrasive demeanor disguises a noble side; he is one of the most trustworthy individuals around. Those who don't understand Tellarites often mistake their directness for aggression. Hierarchy and chain of command is important to Grav; if he's addressed out-of-turn in the presence of a superior officer, he considers it an insult. Loves a good mud bath.

Assists in Tactical & Security operations. From the planet Megganon I. The Megarites joined the Federation after 2271. Known for typically yellow-brown skin with numerous cartilage plates and ridges across the face, most notably two triangular plates on the forehead and three horizontal flaps for a mouth (which renders a "trilled" speech). Megarite society is based on heavy industry. Megganon has hundreds of industrial replication plants and dozens of heavy factory complexes. While Megarites rarely travel off-world, their products go to every part of the known galaxy. This individual wears a special uniform (department color) fashioned in the style of the Megarite culture’s apparel--a long, thick robe with a hood around the head.

Though mistaken by appearance for a Breen, Drok is from the icy planet Yggrasil, which orbits a white dwarf star, and must stay refrigerated in offworld environments--for which the Breen refrigeration suit works well. His true appearance is a mystery, as the suit's composition deflects most sensor scans. Drok feels "detached" from others and his environment, isolated as he is from direct contact, and tries to compensate by being warm and sociable--which sometimes leads him to go "too far", causing irritable social situations. Ever the prankster, he'll sometimes be seen wearing silly garb over the suit, such as birthday hats or furs, and sometimes decorates the suit with graffiti. Drok's voice is transmitted entirely by electronic means, via the helmet's built-in communicator.

Cifc is the first Delta Quadrant denizen assigned to Arcadia, after Laraya Valt. He grew up on Utreras, a Delta Quadrant planet; he does not know how he came to be there. Cifc knows practically nothing about his species, due to the fact that they were assimilated by the Borg, who labeled them "Species 6339". For reasons just as unclear, the Borg have chosen not to share information on this race--although Cifc would do almost anything to learn about them. He desperately longs to meet others of his kind, despite the remote likelihood of the event.

Mariko Ingersoll formerly served on the USS Scorpio, where she had a romantic relationship with Captain Drent Lintner.  The relationship ended badly and she requested reassignment, ending up on the Arcadia.  An avid student of her Japanese ancestors' culture, she strives to put many of their moral practices to use in daily situations.  (Despite her "western" surname (her maiden name), "Ingersoll" has been in her family for generations.)  Earned above-average marks in physical combat training at the Academy.

Full name Thomas Yeates Small. Born of a laborer class on the industrial colony planet Irmenthia. Doomed to always work for someone else's benefit, Small hated his lot in life and left to join Starfleet, where he could apply himself and make his own choices. Despises manual labor but is adept at it, and when he "gets going", turns into one of the Arcadia's hardest workers, tirelessly running around to carry out his duties. Likes sports and sweets.

Little is known about this mysterious humanoid female, not even her name (assuming people of her culture use names), other than that she may hail from the same planet as the equally mysterious "Number One" (the first officer aboard the 23rd century USS Enterprise under Captain Christopher Pike).  A fiercely private individual.  She wears body jewelry, including a nose ring and a spike in her lower lip.  Due to her magenta-colored eyes, fellow crewmates have nicknamed her "Magenta".

The majority of Arcturians are clones. Due to strict Federation regulations surrounding genetic science, they are not genetically enhanced and rather dim-witted on general matters, yet make excellent soldiers and security officers--the primary purpose for Arcturian cloning. Arcturian troops have served in every Federation conflict since joining the UFP. "LT" is an emotionally cold, calm-mannered individual who simply does his job--and does it well. Keeps to himself and rarely engages in conversation or social gatherings. He does, however, like "Arcturian fizz".

Origin: Betelgeuse IX. Betelgeuseans have nickel-based blood and facial cartilage plates, and have been members of the Federation since at least 2271. Generally isolationist, they prefer to stay on their homeworld, usually leaving only for diplomatic purposes. Relatively little is known about the Betelgeusean who mans the Armory in the Security Department. What is known is that this individual was exiled for habits considered "socially violent" in Betelgeusean society--perhaps making this being ideal for Security work.

Ktembin often treads the "fine line" of Starfleet regulations by making questionable (and sometimes downright bad) choices. He narrowly avoided expulsion from Starfleet Academy for running betting pools. Physically, Takarans have reptilianesque external features. They do not have organs in the traditional sense; rather, their internal physiology is homogeneous throughout the body. This makes Takarans extremely difficult to injure or kill. Takarans can control the rate of their cellular physiology, allowing them to put themselves into a state resembling death.

Orphaned as a child by pirate raids on her native colony, this fiery young woman was adopted by Klingons and grew up plotting revenge--only to learn, as an adult, that the Klingons who raised her killed her human family.  After killing her adoptive father, Tori was forced to flee.  She became a mercenary for a time, but realized that it wasn't the lifestyle for her and joined Starfleet.  One of the Arcadia's toughest security types, she strives to be the quintessential security officer.

"Libra" is the revived form of deceased Starfleet officer Maxwell Bennett, killed in an encounter with a neural energy parasite in 2374. A junior science officer at the time, he devised a cortical implant which he hoped would provide immunity against the animal lifeform's attacks, but was killed in the process of testing it. Upon his death, a strange form of symbiosis occurred: The neural being took on Bennett's thought patterns and became self-aware. This new persona, striving to atone for Bennett's loss by serving in his stead, calls himself Libra as a symbol of balance and justice.

Adia was a child genius, making a name for herself by deciphering a first contact message from the Epachan, which led that race to join the Federation. When Adia heard an Epachan joined Starfleet, she followed suit. Adia lacks the "listening" gene most El-Aurians have; due to Federation genetic laws, she is unable to have this handicap rectified. She doesn't miss what she never had, but does wonder how different her life would be if she could perceive as her people do. An accomplished singing vocalist, her love for music has made her a specialist on various cultures' musical forms.

Origin: Cygnet XIV ("Tomorrow Is Yesterday" [TOS]), where women dominate society.  Cygnians behave in a sultry, flirtatious fashion, and L'leda'atu is no different, though it is customary and does not necessarily signify genuine interest on her part.  (A blond-haired, lilac-skinned female humanoid appeared in the episode "Journey To Babel" [TOS].  Identifying that species as "Cygnian" is pure conjecture--a way of tying loose threads.)

Origin: Bynaus, in the Beta Magellan system. Bynars live and work in pairs. For this reason Arcadia's Bynar twins share their rank as a "single" ensign. They converse entirely in binary code at highly accelerated speeds (compared to standard humanoid vocal communication), with the assistance of neural implants and buffers mounted on the waist. They're found most often in Stellar Cartography, which they consider their personal domain. In lieu of Bynaus' planetary computer network with which all Bynars are integrated--the backbone of Bynar civilization--Arcadia's Bynars are interfaced with the ship's main computer. They tend to argue... usually with each other.

Of Earth Chinese ancestry.  Has been part of the Arcadia's Sciences Department for years.  [Suffers "Harry Kim syndrome"--after years of service, still has not been promoted above ensign.]  Often works the bridge science station on Beta shift.  Xi ends up in Sickbay on a recurring basis--every time he visits the holodeck.  He likes dangerous recreational activities which push holodeck safety parameters to their limits (or beyond).

Perhaps Arcadia's most unusual crewmember, Fibonacci is a sentient mathematical expression. Though generally referred to as "male", Fibonacci has no gender and no actual body by conventional understanding. Fibonacci's rank of Ensign is honorary; this intangible being has no interest in rank or hierarchy. Fibonacci spends most of "his" time conversing with the ship's computer or problem-solving for the Sciences Department in mathematical matters ("number-crunching"). Not bound by physical limitations, "he" can turn up in unexpected places, on or off the ship--on a tricorder or a computer screen, or even in instances of nature where that nature can be manipulated by rules of the "Fibonacci Sequence". Visually he may appear as a diagram, fractal image or series of digits, corresponding to his mathematical dimensions. When direct interaction with tangible beings is necessary, he can communicate via com-systems or use holo-emitters to manifest a holographic representation (the forms of which can be startling and varied). Due to lacking social skills however, he more often utilizes his ability to alter or influence mathematical probabilities to make his presence known--thus, it takes a trained eye to spot his presence or involvement.

This young woman comes from Paqafi, a world of cultural extremes populated by a colony of "thought artists" who have made the myths and fictions of other cultures into a way of life. In the 23rd century Paqafi sat on the edge of the Klingon Neutral Zone, ruled by a dictator who suppressed the ideas of others to the point of outlawing all works of fiction or expressions of free thought and individuality. Through an uprising the colonists adopted the practice of imitating fictional characters, a practice which survives to this day. Erio assumes different identities on a varying basis, going by different names and sometimes altering her appearance to match the "role" (which sometimes conflicts with Starfleet dress code). She is, essentially, an actor on the stage of life, whose performance never ends.

Although Bolian, P'lei spent most of her life on Eminiar VII. She did not join Starfleet until well in her forties (by Earth years). Having born several children and grandchildren, she has become a "mother figure" to some of the crew, with her nurturing demeanor and gentle wisdom.

Pwawk are the dominant intelligent lifeform on Aspidiske (Iota Carinæ) III. Although they appear roughly insectoid, they are in fact similar to plankton. Aspidiske has had intermittent contact with space explorers for centuries, from ancient Vulcans to the modern Federation; its environment is extremely inhospitable to humanoids. Starfleet first visited the planet in the 22nd century. This planet is home to a complex ecosystem of airborne lifeforms who propel themselves on chemical winds by expelling a luminescent gas, which creates a visible aura around their bodies. The Pwawk joined the Federation in 2379; Sh'wsh'sh'kk't is the first of their kind in Starfleet. His "aura" protects him from the Arcadia's shipboard atmosphere. Storing excess air and energy within hollows along his outer shell gives him buoyancy, allowing him to float. He's a bit clumsy however, bumping into bulkheads and occasionally other crew-members.

This unusual woman is a living irony--a Klingon counselor. B'Eryn shows sensitivity to feelings and emotions in others, disdaining battle and bloodshed unlike most Klingons. Her attitudes led to her ostracism from Klingon society at an early age and she grew up on a Federation planet near Klingon space. She jokingly claims to be a mutant, but this has been proven scientifically inaccurate.

Vidiian specialist in Xenobiology; born 2353. Valt grew up on a Vidiian "relief" ship with her parents in the Delta Quadrant, where the Vidiians suffered from the brutal Phage disease, which destroyed their internal and external organs and tissues. As a result they commonly "harvested" organs from other humanoid species to replace those lost to the disease. Valt hated this state of affairs, feeling that her people had no right to sacrifice others, even for their own welfare. When the Phage claimed her parents in 2368, she left aboard a shuttle which fell into an unstable wormhole and emerged in the Alpha Quadrant, where a Starfleet ship found her. Physician Aisha Lamar saved Valt from the Phage using ancient Fabrini medical technology, inspiring Valt to become a doctor herself. Jogs daily.

From Manchuria on Earth; of mixed Chinese-Korean ancestry. Since the Federation provides for all, Phu's family discouraged individual effort, preferring to live off of society. Phu had an insatiable, natural predilection for learning from an early age, and often "snuck out" to visit local libraries. In his teens he befriended a Starfleet doctor from Starbase One in Earth orbit and went to live with him there. Phu later attended Starfleet Medical School and despite requests for placement on stations or starbases, he was assigned to the Arcadia.

Descended from various Earth ethnic groups (including Hindu, Filipino and Hispanic).  Davalos grew up in England, and speaks with a British accent.  Plays soccer.  Has a weakness for anything vanilla.

A recent medical school graduate, fresh out of the Academy. Hailing from the distant planet Coricia, this young woman's admission into Starfleet was a subject of great controversy. The Coricians are descendants of humans from the future, who traveled back in time after Earth was, or supposedly would be, destroyed. While debating over whether all of reality is now an alternate timeline as a result, Starfleet found no legitimate grounds to prevent Coricians from entering Federation service. Bright and exceptionally talented, Karper has a definite future as a doctor. She also has a bit of a "chip" on her shoulder towards starship captains, for reasons yet to be explained.

Medical resident working on his doctorate. A citizen of the T'Lani who warred for centuries with the Kellerun (until finally reaching peace in 2370), Gabria'zan lost his family to "harvesters", deadly nanobiogenic weapons used during the conflict. This influenced his decision to become a doctor. To escape military drafting which would have made him a soldier, he fled to the Federation and joined Starfleet. Functions as a Physician's Assistant to Doctor Brisk.

Joined the Arcadia at Starbase 138 in 2382, along with Celina Corgan.  Her Deltan empathic ability, albeit limited, suits her role as a medic.  "Irska", in Deltan, means "light".  Like most Deltans, she considers other humanoids, especially humans, sexually inferior, and has taken an oath of celibacy restricting social interactions with the crew.

This Benzite was raised on Avleb VIII, a planet where doctors made a lucrative business out of tending wounded Ferengi prior to their official "first contact" with the Federation in 2364. Iyopa saw how the Ferengi paid Avleb's doctors well in latinum, and was influenced to join the profession. Driven by dreams of avarice, he enlisted in the Starfleet Medical Academy, only to learn that doctors don't make a profit in Starfleet. Iyopa continued with his training, however, in order to gain skill, and perhaps someday return to the world he left behind to make his fortune.

The Ikriint resemble albinos, with pale gray-white skin and red eyes (except they have dark hair). They inhabit a planet orbiting a black sun at the edge of the Gamma Quadrant, yet appear suited to life in standard conditions for most humanoids. Ikriint legends purport that they came from the stars; archaeological findings suggest their evolution from ancient Cheronians. Klavir is a passionate young woman with a love for medicine and machines. She scored high on both at the Academy; therefore it is not unusual to find her working in both Medical and Sciences. She finds other species' mating concepts bizarrely fascinating, as members of her own race are "grown" rather than born. Ikriint societal restrictions allow very few of their kind to travel off-world. Klavir has hinted that she may be an outcast from her people in this regard.

A member of the Arcadia's medical department since the ship first launched.  Quiet but friendly.  A consummate professional, she has developed a close working relationship with Dr. Brisk.  "Roberts" is her married name.  Originated from Earth's South American continent, in the region once known as Venezuela.

Known as "Buck" by his friends.  Born and raised in Houston, Texas; lost his accent at the Academy.  Proud of his Arab ancestry.  Hafez likens himself to the ancient Arab astronomers who mapped and named the stars; sees himself as carrying on their legacy, visiting the places they could only see from afar.  An exemplary student of Starfleet engineering and operations, he holds a degree in mathematics and instinctively grasps the principles of operations aboard a Quantum-class starship.  Speaks several "popular" Federation languages, including Vulcan and Andorian (without need of a universal translator).  Likes "swing" music, jazz, archery and riding bareback; has a fondness for biscuits.

Ty'amra claims descent from Shran and Jhamel, prominent 22nd-century Andorians who influenced the rise of the Federation. Her ancestor Jhamel belonged to the Aenar, a telepathic subspecies of the Andorian race from whom she inherited telepathic ability, though to what degree is unclear. Curiously, Ty'amra bears a distinct resemblance to Talas, another early Andorian. By Andorian custom, she's married to Bron Marlang, with whom she served on a previous assignment. Ty'amra never reads minds without consent; however she does occasionally converse with telepathic members of the ship's crew (as well as her husband).

From the African continent on Earth. Speaks with a regional accent. Initially served as a science officer. Movasi is one of the relative few Starfleet officers to have been granted amnesty after joining the Maquis. He never talks to anyone about his Maquis past--it's a touchy subject for him.

A calm, mild-mannered career professional. Works primarily as an administrative assistant to the Chief Ops Officer. Joined Starfleet to "see the world". Punctual, reliable and respectful; never late for duty. Likes fine wine, classical music and theater. His wife serves on the USS Yorktown.

Cousin to Sol'ar Keen, another Bajoran who formerly served in Starfleet. Keen's career inspired Trinn, who practically worshipped her cousin and joined Starfleet to follow in his footsteps. She compares herself to him on occasion, but feels she never measures up. Trinn is naturally overweight, giving her a self-esteem problem and a somewhat cynical world-view; yet at the same time she proved herself to be a capable officer, earning a commission on the Arcadia. Known for a sharp tongue and quick wit.

Born Mariela Carlotti. "Norr" is one of the few humans raised in the Dominion. As a baby, she was the sole survivor of a commercial ship which found its way through the Bajoran wormhole into the Gamma Quadrant, where it was destroyed by unknown attackers. A Vorta rescued and raised her, giving her the name Norr. For reasons unclear to her, after the Dominion War, the Founders sent Norr to the Alpha Quadrant to be with her own kind. Unable to find a home in this strange new world, she joined Starfleet, but hopes to rejoin the Dominion someday.

Assigned to the Arcadia as the result of a record-keeping error. Once offered a chance to move on to his intended assignment, however, Broca requested and received permission to remain aboard the Arc. A serious-minded young man who follows orders to the letter. Notoriously unlucky in romantic relationships. His mother, Dr. Aisha Lamar (whose surname became Broca's personal name), is a prominent Starfleet medical physician.

Arcadia's resident Saurian is "currently" known as "Soros Lr'ro".  Saurian naming customs provide that one's name changes as an individual progresses through life.  Thus a Saurian's name today may not be the same later on.  Lr'ro speaks as if he has a lisp, substituting and hissing "S"es for "th" sounds.  Saurians have four hearts and can breathe several different gases.  Inventors of Saurian brandy.

From the India region on Earth.  Named for a noted Hindu figure.  Fiercely loyal to Starfleet.  Possesses above-average IQ and refuses to be intimidated by danger.  Good friends with Monenerkit.  Likes Away Team duty.

A headstrong, opinionated woman of European Jewish ancestry. She was court-martialed and nearly expelled from Starfleet while serving aboard the USS Rensellaer, for supposedly attempting to kill a superior officer, but was cleared after an investigation. Later she requested a transfer to the Arcadia.

Esum's father was a Rutian law-enforcement official killed by the terrorist "Ansata".  After his death it was discovered that he had belonged to the Ansata; the political fallout brought undue suspicion to Esum's family, forcing them to relocate to Earth.  Driven by the tragic memory, Esum joined Starfleet as part of a complex plan of revenge, but eventually abandoned his quest.  Has served in Security, but currently works Ops aboard the Arc.  Has difficulty living with the label "the son of a terrorist".  Likes to write in his spare time.

Fortysomething career woman from the "duplicate Earth" visited by the USS Enterprise in 2266 ["Miri" (TOS)] (but not a biological native).  Inspired in youth by her starship-captain father's tales, she couldn't wait to get into Starfleet and enlisted at a young age--and has been loving it ever since.  Her only regret is that she didn't become an officer; she believes she would be a captain by now herself.  Writes and directs plays aboard the Arcadia.

MacKenzie is a clone of Captain Jacob MacKenzie. Captain MacKenzie visited the planet Mariposa for a Starfleet evaluation of Mariposan society's progress following the integration of Bringloidi colonists in 2365. It was found that the Mariposans had cloned the colonists, causing their population to triple overnight, leading to widespread starvation and civil war. Sympathetic to their plight, MacKenzie cloned himself, creating a peacekeeping force which brought an end to the conflict. Despite his noble intent, he was banished from Starfleet for his actions, but ironically, after extensive debate in the Federation Council, his clones were recognized as sentient individuals with legal rights. Several joined Starfleet, distinguished by their personal names.

Traditionally works transporters aboard the Arcadia.  Bears a strong dislike of machines (perhaps his job as well) and grumbles when things "don't go right".  Knows little about his origins.  He is part Orion (accounting for his green skin) and part human, but has ancestors among several other humanoid races as well, although it is unknown exactly which ones or how many.  Doesn't like doctors either, or he might learn more about his genetic origins via medical testing.  Has striking violet-colored eyes.

Little is known about this Cardassian, one of the first to serve in Starfleet following Cardassia's admission to the Federation in 2383. Typically cold and brooding; keeps to himself and dines alone in the Mess Hall.

Born in New Zealand on Earth, of Maori/Polynesian human ancestry. Her small, petite frame enables her to get into "hard to reach" places. Likes to sing while she works.

Descended from Captain Siaka Topondy, CO of the USS Illustrious in the 23rd century.  Joined Starfleet because of a dream--he dreamt of being in Starfleet when he was a child.  Tends to have the view of a romantic, and believes in the goodness of people.

Born on Titan, Saturn's moon, in the Sol System; moved around a lot. Wanted to be an engineer, but due to Academy scores ended up in Ops. Likes making strange culinary concoctions and getting others to try them (people worry when they see him in the Mess Hall). His family follows a Bajoran-like custom of placing surnames before personal names; hence he is properly referred to as "Crewman Rice", but tolerates "Crewman Newaygo".

Toole's personal name, of Vulcan origin, has earned him the nicknames "So Cool" Toole or "Cool Toole". And cool he is--nonemotional to the point a Vulcan might envy, and sharp under pressure. He was raised by Vulcans in the area later known as the Demilitarized Zone, along the Federation-Cardassian border, after his family perished in the Federation-Cardassian conflict. Prefers the company of his engines over social interaction. Habitually messy, his appearance often seems unkempt. The ship's poker champion; a master of the "poker face".

A dedicated engineer, this orange-skinned humanoid can often be found in Engineering even when off duty. Ghwuult's speech consists of throaty growls and clicks which the universal translator enunciates indirectly, enabling others to understand him, although he doesn't form human words. His voice is deep and guttural in tone, and his "mandibles" move when he speaks. To eat he must secrete an enzymatic acid onto his food, like an Earth fly, in order to soften it for digestion. Allergic to salt and cologne. Has solid-black eyes.

Bzzit-Khaht are semi-aquatic lifeforms. Their eye color changes from green to yellow to red in response to various conditions. The personal name of Arcadia's resident member of this species is rather difficult to pronounce, so everyone calls him "BK"--or sometimes "Big K", as a joke on his size (Bzzit-Khaht are shorter than most humanoids). BK either doesn't mind or just doesn't get it.

All members of this exotic humanoid's species are, apparently, female.  Because their language is a system of musical scales, making their names difficult (if not impossible) for other humanoids to pronounce, this young woman is simply referred to by the collective name assigned to her race.  She has mastered several of the more "common" Federation languages including standard (English), and can speak freely without the universal translator.  Her voice in its natural state sounds melodious and haunting.  Like others of her kind, she sees in wavelengths of the spectrum beyond humans, and claims to "see" things in warp-flow energy which others cannot.

[Pronounced SIS-lis].  Exchange officer; part of a Starfleet cooperative program with the Gorn Hegemony.  Ssliss is the quiet type--reserved and private, despite the intimidating visage of a Gorn on a Federation starship.  It is generally unknown that Ssliss is female, due to Gorn cultural stipulations regarding personnel records.  No one on the Arcadia but Dr. Brisk knows for sure--and few have the courage to ask.  Although an exchange officer, like Medellia Gray, Ssliss has met Starfleet requirements to be granted official rank.

Gruff, no-nonsense type. Chief Marcum's demand for "no less than best" helps to keep Engineering efficient. Off-duty, he's known for a warmer side, which includes good-natured ribbing and a cocky sort of wisdom in quips with the crew. Many engineers look to him unofficially as the real "Chief" of Engineering. When not working he can usually be found in his quarters watching holo-entertainment programs, enjoying a beer.

Came up through the Arcadia's Engineering Department; has been with the ship since 2379. His home is the Jauroda Colony, supposedly settled by descendants of Earth's ancient gypsies. Jauroda's arcane, mystical customs influenced Diaz since his childhood, and as a result he tends to be superstitious.

"A" Behenw't is actually five red, squid-like beings encased in liquid-filled, interconnected spheres resembling crystal balls, which float and move by means of anti-gravity technology. "E'quabsizata" is their collectively preferred name; their full name is Elaterapfushyensadu'quabsizataglosue'ef. (They'll tolerate "Quab" in a pinch.) Behenw't have a history as debaters; they will argue any point solely for the sake of argument, believing that it is only possible to learn from differing points of view. For this reason, E'quabsizata's position in any discussion will often shift, as they are less interested in the point than in simply trying to make a point. Others tend to ignore or avoid E'quabsizata due to the frustrations which inevitably result. Lacking conversation partners, the five component lifeforms will debate with each other (though this doesn't prevent them from doing their job). Because a collective Behenw't is sometimes perceived as a single lifeform, this gives the appearance of one creature talking to itself. Despite the frustrations Behenw't arouse, they are expert warp physicists, prized for such roles aboard starships.

Hupyrians have a reputation for utter devotion and loyalty to their employers. They also have a reputation for stubborn silence. Hence this tall, quiet humanoid is one of Starfleet's most dedicated personnel--yet rarely speaks unless absolutely necessary, even to his superiors. An exception, on occasion, is the Captain, in whom he may confide sensitive information--and then, he prefers to whisper in the Captain's ear.

Born on Dorvan V; descended from the Comanche tribes of Earth's Native Americans. Works closely with Ops as a Damage Control technician. 'Mig' is short for Miguel, but he only goes by Mig. Good friends with Shatriya.

Named for the Earth city which she calls home. Her family dropped their surname generations ago, due to a lack of genealogical records which would indicate their exact forebears. Married to a civilian husband, but observes the family custom. Likes having a beer now and then with Chief Marcum (but not with Lieutenant Ericson).

Between Engineering and Operations, these two work side-by-side, essentially keeping each department apprised of what the other is doing and assisting in allocations of energy and resources as needed.  Rashid and Ben-Adda are living proof that peace and cooperation works, when given the chance: Their ancestors once warred constantly on Earth.  Ben-Adda is of Israeli descent; Rashid is Arabic.

Balk is the type to start fights; Ligeti tends to bail him out. Balk can be crass, temperamental and a troublemaker; only his friendship with Ligeti (a calmer presence) keeps him on "the straight & narrow". Balk and Ligeti are rarely seen apart, on or off duty. Ligeti will often point out Balk's shortcomings, which Balk ignores or doesn't mind. They share adjacent quarters on the same deck. Balk claims his grandfather died fighting Romulans.

From Greenland on Earth.  What some might consider the average, "all-Terran" girl.  Likes running and physical endurance sports.  Her parents worked on Earth's Atlantis Project.  Her father used to call her "Little Admiral", believing she would make admiral someday.

Every workplace has its resident "bitch".  Lynn Tattersall is Arcadia's.  She was named for her aunt, former Vice-Admiral Alynna Nechayev, known to some as the "Queen Bitch of Starfleet"... and, perhaps not surprisingly, takes after her.  Nechayev trained her personally as a trouble-shooter, dealing with problem officers and situations.  Tattersall was assigned to Arcadia in late 2385 as a "political officer", after the ship nearly incited a war with the Kazon.  In conjunction with Ambassador Xev, who represents Federation interests, she is the voice of Starfleet rules and "expectations", and monitors crew conduct.  Despite her rank, her authority exceeds even the captain's.

"On loan" from the Bureau of Starfleet Affairs; monitors and analyzes Arcadia and her crew as part of an ongoing project to better understand Starfleet's Quantum Slipstream program. Truthfully, he was assigned to the ship to get him out of the Bureau's hair: Ericson tends to be annoyingly idealistic. He longs for "adventure" and dreams of being a hero, and is always on the lookout for opportunities to prove himself. Unfortunately, this doesn't win popularity votes in a team-spirited crew atmosphere. Loves sports, beer, and holodecks. If there's a game going on, you can bet he'll be there.

The Arcadia's Mess Hall hostess is a Zaldan--good-natured most of the time, but given to agitation if she feels others are being too polite. Zaldans reject courtesy as a form of dishonesty, so the proper (and courteous) way to deal with this woman is with brutal honesty. Physically, she appears human except for webbed hands and feet and yellow, lupine eyes. (The eyes may signify another ethnic element in her bloodline.)

A civilian engineer who worked on the Quantum Fleet design program in its early stages.  He was called in to help ascertain and resolve malfunctions in the Arcadia's onboard systems following the ship's return from the Wenga System in late 2385, then placed on continuous assignment, in order to help monitor changes in shipboard operations as a result.  Otto lost his entire family in the Dominion War, for which he remains resentful.  Thus he comes into conflict with individuals such as Norr and Umat'iglan.

Umat'iglan is one of a new breed of Jem'Hadar, bred in accordance with the Federation-Dominion peace treaty, to live longer (up to fifty standard Earth-years) and mentally enhanced for scientific aptitude and cooperation.  Physically he is softer in appearance than Jem'Hadar warriors, missing the common facial spikes, and less socially intimidating.  Despite his intelligence and basically civil demeanor, he is intellectually immature, as he is, by human terms, only four Earth-years of age.  This makes him somewhat brash, eager, and inexperienced.  A professor of sciences, he works through the Peaceful Officer Exchange program as a scientific representative of the Dominion, conducting research in areas primarily related to quantum slipstream drive.  He still wields Jem'Hadar combat skills and may clash with others on occasion over his "worth" as a Jem'Hadar (since most Jem'Hadar are soldiers), or over issues of scientific debate.  Although in the process of adding Starfleet Academy training to his résumé, his rank of Ensign is considered honorary.

Wembahdnaw are marine life-forms--huge, swollen creatures, whose spiky, five-eyed heads are larger than most humanoid bodies. Their eyes change from glowing luminescent to dark depending on mood. Each Wembahdnaw individual has many different names, and is never to be addressed personally by just one at any time--which is considered an insult. Protocol dictates calling a Wembahdnaw by as many of its names as possible in conversation; therefore it is not wise to approach or engage this being in conversation unless one understands this most basic custom (and knows the names). Due to biological and cultural restrictions, Arc's Wembahdnaw scientist resides in isolated quarters modified to resemble an aquarium on Deck 12, studying the effects of quantum slipstream. This creature helps to recalibrate ship's engines accordingly, by remote, via computer interface.

Works with Starfleet in a civilian capacity. A gifted young woman, Karinna has already had a distinguished career in four years since graduating Paulin College in Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan, on Earth. As a computational physics specialist, she aided in the design of several Starfleet test vessels and proof-of-concept designs. Her assignment to the Arcadia is a pre-step towards Starfleet's intended design of a new quantum-drive starship; she analyzes inner workings and suggests occasional improvements. Fibonacci often aids her in this process.

Occasionally Federation envoys travel aboard Starfleet vessels for political reasons, and Arcadia has hosted more than one.  The current such assignee is Ambassador Xev of Denobula Triaxa.  A prim, aristocratic woman, she is an accomplished mediator who sees the Federation as the "light" of the galaxy, and believes in its future.  Despite her progressive, forward-thinking views, she is at odds with Romulan scientist Vronak, with whom she has clashed in the past over unrevealed circumstances.  Xev travels aboard the Arcadia primarily as an observer, but won't hesitate to share her views on a situation if she feels Federation policies are being challenged.  "Xev" is an homage to the Denobulans of Star Trek: Enterprise.  Name is a tip of the hat to the sci-fi series Lexx.