Starfleet Academy explores the mystery of Sisko in Deep Space Nine's finale

Polygon reports episode 5, 'Series Acclimation Mil,' is a tribute to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine that grew out of what co-showrunner Noga Landau called a "deep love" for the series and for Captain Benjamin Sisko. The episode centers on the hologram Series Acclimation Mil (SAM), created to help a new species called the Kasquians decide whether to trust the Federation.

SAM’s investigation focuses on the ambiguous fate of DS9’s Captain Sisko — whether he died confronting the Pah-wraiths or ascended to the Celestial Temple — and on SAM’s own role as an emissary. Co-written by Tawny Newsome and Kirsten Beyer, the episode features Kerrice Brooks as SAM and includes Robert Picardo as the Doctor.

Brooks said much of the role was essentially a 36-page monologue. The story also reveals that Illa is the latest host of the Trill symbiont Dax and includes a book about Sisko written by his son Jake, played by Cirroc Lofton. The episode explores ambiguity and cultural exchange while tying Starfleet Academy to the broader franchise.