Metaphasic radiation
Metaphasic radiation is a form of energy which, under certain conditions, reverses the aging process of most humanoid species, thereby prolonging the life of those who are exposed to it.
Metaphasic radiation also has remarkable regenerative and rejuvenative properties, increasing the metabolism and energy levels of those irradiated by it.
High concentrations of metaphasic radiation were discovered to be contained within the rings of the planet Ba'ku in 2375. An offshoot race of the Ba'ku, the Son'a, were desperate to harvest the radiation, so as to expand their own lifespans. However, since the Ba'ku planet was in Federation territory, they enlisted the help of a Star Fleet Admiral to have the Federation Council agree to have the radiation harvested, under the pretense of medical purposes. This would have meant relocating the Ba'ku people to another world, as the loss of the radiation would mean making Ba'ku uninhabitable. Ultimately the USS Enterprise-E was able to foil the plan.
Fun Fact:
Several Enterprise crewmembers experienced the regenerative process whilst aiding the Ba'ku.
- The cells in the eyes of engineer Geordi La Forge had begun to regenerate, allowing him to see naturally.
- Lieutenant Commander Worf also re-entered "Jak'tahla" - the Klingon version of puberty.
