A science laboratory (for short, lab or science lab) is any area set-up for work in experimental or observational science. Areas like these are commonplace aboard explorational vessels such as Federation starships, space stations and outposts, under the auspices of Starfleet's sciences division.

Nebula-class starships like the USS Minnesota have at least sixteen general-purpose science laboratories plus a number of dedicated facilities studying different disciplines.


Extra labs could be installed on Deck 8 if needed. Typical science laboratories aboard a Nebula class starship include:

Astronomical Sciences

• Astrophysics Lab
• Stellar Cartography Lab
• Stellar Dynamics
• Planetary Sciences
• Geological Lab

Physical Sciences

• Engineering lab
• Quantum Mechanics

Biological and Medical Sciences

• Exobiology
• Arboretum
• Hydroponics
• Cetacean Ops
• Biomedical Lab
• Medlabs
• Cultural Anthropology
• Tactical Lab