Uniform Changes in 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' – Why Does Dr. Joseph M'Benga Wear Blue?

Often, viewers can confuse the uniform differences between different Star Trek series, especially when it comes to the Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (SNW) and Discovery (DSC) series. One common query is: why does Dr. Joseph M'Benga wear blue while other medical officers wear white in SNW? This article delves into the reasoning behind this uniform change and clarifies the purpose of these varied designs.

Understanding the Uniform Changes Between Discovery and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

It's important to note that the uniforms in SNW are intended to be variants of the uniforms seen in The Original Series (TOS). In the earlier DSC series, medical officers wore white, a design that was fully retired by the time SNW was set. However, in the new uniforms depicted in SNW, only nurses and medical technicians wear white. Doctors and other medical officers wear light blue uniforms, which contrast with the dark blue uniforms worn by members of the rest of the life sciences division.

The Purpose Behind the Design Choices

The primary goal of these design choices was to show a gradual transition from the DSC style to the familiar uniforms from TOS. In TOS, everyone in the medical department wore the same blue uniform as the rest of the science division. The only distinction between medical personnel and other science division members were the red cross emblems on their chests, which helped to identify their specific roles.

The Specifics on M'Benga’s Uniform

Dr. M'Benga, the Chief Medical Officer in SNW, wears a lighter shade of blue for unknown reasons. Additionally, his tunic features stripes on the sleeves, which denote his rank. This detail is important as it helps maintain a clear visual hierarchy within the crew.

Nurse Chapel’s Choice of Uniform

In the same season, Nurse Chapel opts for a white jumpsuit. She explains that the reason for this is to make it easier to move around and perform her duties. This choice was likely made for practical reasons, ensuring that the crew members can perform their functions with minimum obstruction.

Conclusion

The uniform changes in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds are an intentional design choice to reflect the gradual transition from the DSC era to the familiar uniforms seen in TOS. These changes help to establish a clear visual representation of the evolving culture and technology within the ongoing Star Trek universe. By emphasizing the lighter blue uniforms for medical officers and the white jumpsuit for Nurse Chapel, the show highlights the roles and functions of different crew members while maintaining a sense of historical continuity.