26 – Shockwave, Part 1

Grade: B-

Shockwave, Part I (2002) on IMDb

Summary

When visiting a new planet, Malcolm Reed has to be careful in landing the shuttle not to ignite the atmosphere. He does everything he can to follow protocols to the letter, but something goes wrong and the entire planet goes up in flames. Everyone on the surface is killed. As a result, Starfleet orders Captain Archer to return to Earth.

Commentary

This is an interesting episode, and it is definitely above average for this TV series. Unfortunately, it comes way too late in the first season run.