Helmsman

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The helmsman was the Starfleet position aboard 23rd century Federation starships. His or her primary function was to operate the helm. This position could also be called the helm officer.

After the navigator plotted the course, the helmsman implemented those co-ordinates into the ship's computers, controlling the ship's speed and attitude. Aboard the USS Enterprise, the person at this position was also responsible for the ship's offensive and defensive systems.

The term "helmsman" was sometimes used generally for a person responsible for ship's speed and attitude. Aboard the Enterprise (NX-01), there was a single helm station, but it remained unclear whether there was a separate or integrated navigation station. (ENT: "Broken Bow", et al)

By the 24th century, the flight controller position was responsible for both helm and navigation functions, while tactical and operations positions handled offensive and defensive capabilities. (TNG: "Encounter at Farpoint", et al)

[edit] Notable Helmsmen

• Ensign Kate Howard
  • USS Paragon (NCC-75304)
• Ensign James Dunbar
  • USS Essex (NCC-31419)
• Lieutenant Ria McCarthy
  • USS Pioneer (NCC-78399) (2387 - 2390)
• Commander Kevin Fry
  • USS Dauntless (NCC-75310) (2374)

[edit] External links

• Helmsman article at Memory Alpha, the canon Star Trek wiki.
• Helmsman article at Memory Beta, the non-canon Star Trek wiki.