The Expanse season 3 episode 1 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

The episode delves into the complex aftermath of the Eros incident, where Earth, Mars, and the Belt grapple with the consequences of the protomolecule, an alien substance capable of altering matter. Tensions escalate as Mars shows interest in this technology, leading to political and military conflicts. The Rocinante crew faces internal turmoil, especially after Naomi's decision to give the protomolecule to Fred Johnson, aiming to balance power in the Belt. Amidst

Full Episode S03E01 Recap

### Previously on The Expanse - **Prologue**: The episode begins with a recap of previous events. The protomolecule is named and acknowledged as a significant threat, with Earth, Mars, and the Belt involved in its manipulation. Eros changes trajectory towards Earth, hinting at the unpredictability of the protomolecule. - **Eros Incident and Aftermath**: The Eros incident, recognized as the first contact with alien life, leads to the hiding of a protomolecule sample by the Rocinante crew. The incident's ramifications are profound, altering the trajectory of interplanetary politics and warfare. - **Ganymede Incident**: The narrative shifts to Ganymede, where a weapons test involving the protomolecule occurs. The aftermath reveals Mars' interest in the weapon, and the Rocinante crew's struggle with the ethical dilemma of what to do with their protomolecule sample. - **Mars and Earth Tensions Escalate**: The destruction of the MCRN "Karakum" and subsequent political maneuvers escalate tensions between Mars and Earth. This leads to military engagements and further complications in the already fragile solar system. - **The Rocinante Crew's Dilemma**: Internal conflicts within the Rocinante crew emerge, particularly surrounding Naomi's decision to give the protomolecule to Fred Johnson. The crew grapples with the implications of her actions and their own roles in the unfolding events. - **The Protomolecule's Influence**: The protomolecule's influence continues to grow, with its activities on Venus being closely monitored. Earth, Mars, and the Belt each possess a piece of the protomolecule, escalating the arms race and the potential for conflict. - **The Threat of War**: The Secretary-General of the UN declares war, underlining the severity of the situation. The episode emphasizes the looming threat of a full-scale war between Earth and Mars, with the Belt caught in the middle. - **The Rocinante's Future**: Amidst the chaos, the Rocinante crew faces uncertainty about their future and the state of their ship. The episode ends with a sense of impending conflict and the crew's determination to navigate the complexities of the evolving crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the protomolecule?

The protomolecule is an alien substance that is central to the plot of "The Expanse." It has the ability to radically alter biological and technological matter.

How does the protomolecule affect Earth, Mars, and the Belt?

The protomolecule sets off a series of events that escalate tensions between Earth, Mars, and the Belt, leading to political intrigue and potential warfare.

What happened on Eros?

Eros changed its trajectory towards Earth, an event that was later revealed to be the result of the protomolecule's influence.

What is the significance of the Ganymede incident?

The Ganymede incident was a protomolecule-related weapons test, which increased Mars' interest in the technology and intensified the solar system's political and military tensions.

Why did Naomi give the protomolecule to Fred Johnson?

Naomi gave the protomolecule to Fred Johnson to ensure that the Belt would also have access to this powerful technology, potentially as a deterrent or for leverage.

What are the political ramifications of the MCRN "Karakum" destruction?

The destruction of the MCRN "Karakum" exacerbates the already high tensions between Earth and Mars, pushing them closer to war.

How is the Rocinante crew affected by these events?

The Rocinante crew grapples with internal conflicts, particularly regarding Naomi's decision to give the protomolecule to Fred Johnson, and their role in the unfolding crisis.

What is the state of the Rocinante at the end of the episode?

The Rocinante is damaged and the crew is uncertain about their future, contemplating their next steps amidst a backdrop of impending war.

Is there a war declared in the episode?

Yes, the Secretary-General of the UN declares a formal declaration of war, underlining the gravity of the situation between Earth and Mars.

What is the focus of the episode?

The focus of the episode is on the escalating conflict involving the protomolecule, the political maneuvering between Earth, Mars, and the Belt, and the Rocinante crew's struggles.

The Expanse season 3 episode 1

Fight or Flight