Lawrence was cast as Amelia Earhart after she had previously worked with "Voyager" casting director on "NYPD Blue". The episode shows the first time that a Federation starship lands on a planet's surface. CGI was used to show the landing struts unfold, and feet were added to the "Voyager" model for filming; however the production crew weren't pleased with these and obscured them during filming. The episode received Nielsen ratings of 7.5 percent, and was given a mixed response by critics. Among the criticisms were the density of the ideas in the episode and the gimmicky appearance of Earhart. It was also said to be redeemed by the vignettes showing the crew discussing whether to leave the ship, and that the episode contained a "powerful feminist narrative".