Picard assigns Geordi to use the new capability of using his VISOR as a link between his brain and an experimental mechanical probe to rescue the science vessel U.S.S. Raman, which has become trapped inside the turbulent atmosphere of an unusual gaseous planet, Marijne VII. While Geordi prepares for his mission, Picard receives distressing news from Admiral Holt. The starship U.S.S. Hera, which is commanded by Geordi's mother, has disappeared without a trace and has essentially been given up for lost. Later, when the crew sends the probe to the Raman, Geordi is shocked to see his mother, Silva La Forge, standing in front of him.

Madge Sinclair (Captain Silva La Forge)
Ben Vereen (Dr. Edward La Forge)
Warren Munson (Admiral Marcus Holt)

• When Geordi is seen in place of the probe, he is seen without his VISOR or his white contact lenses.
  
• Geordi has a sister, Ariana.
  
• The U.S.S. Raman NCC-29487 is an Oberth-class science vessel. The crew of seven was accidentally killed by the subspace lifeforms.
  
• The U.S.S. Hera NCC-62006 is a Nebula-class starship. It had a crew of 300+, mostly Vulcans. The memorial service for the Hera was to take place on Vulcan. Starfleet sent the U.S.S. Excelsior and U.S.S. Nobel to search for the Hera, but they could find no trace of the ship.
  
• Admiral Holt is stationed on space station Deep Space 3.
  
• Madge Sinclair previously played the unnamed Captain of the U.S.S. Saratoga in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home.