Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 3's Trailer Teases Deep Space Nine Action

The animated sitcom "Star Trek: Lower Decks" is revving up for its Season 3 premiere on Paramount+ in late August. Viewers can expect a lot of fan service in the upcoming season if the latest trailer, which was unveiled during San Diego Comic-Con 2022, is any indication. Creator Mike McMahan exclusively gave those in attendance at the "Star Trek" panel a taste of what fans can expect next after a Season 2 cliffhanger that saw Captain Carol Freeman (Dawnn Lewis) get arrested, leaving the four main crew members of the USS Cerritos to unravel the mystery surrounding who framed her and why. 

But now, McMahan has revealed even more during the show's panel at SDCC 2022, confirming the comedy sci-fi show's shout-outs to "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," one of the franchise's most beloved editions – and hinting much more is to come. When asked, "Is 'Lower Decks' really going to go to 'Deep Space Nine'?" the show's creator didn't shy away from the answer.

In audio obtained by Static Media sister site /Film during the "Star Trek: Lower Decks" panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2022, "Star Trek: Lower Decks" creator Mike McMahan earned applause when he spoke about the show's upcoming homage to "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine." He confirmed the Cerritos crew would be making a Deep Space Nine visit. Referencing the early '90s franchise, he revealed to the crowd, "We circle Deep Space Nine. We check out the pylons, and then we go into Deep Space Nine, where we will walk the promenade. We will enjoy the Cardassian architecture." McMahan also shared with the crowd that there will even be jumja sticks and viewers "might see some friendly faces."

The latest trailer for "Star Trek: Lower Decks" Season 3 (via YouTube) not only confirms this but also gives fans a funny previous of what to expect when the USS Cerritos docks at Deep Space Nine. Opening with a news segment revealing the Cerritos has been impounded, pending Captain Freeman's trial, the latest trailer shows crew members dining at Sisko's in New Orleans — a popular dining spot for characters from the Starfleet Academy in "Deep Space Nine" — but another character says, "I can't believe we're at Deep Space Nine!" as they gave out a window at the space station in the distance.

"Star Trek: Lower Decks" Season 3 debuts on Paramount+ on Thursday, August 25.