It’s a great episode in terms of characterization and poignancy, but the plot device itself makes no sense. The probe is meant to be used one time and then shut down forever in order to preserve their civilization? At the very least allow it to be used more than once.
$40,000 does seem to be a little low for the only existing cultural item from a civilization that has been completely destroyed.
Also, you’d think they’d include a book or something in their “only one person will ever know we existed” probe.
I say it should have not gone to picard but in an alternate timeline it went to a borg drone. Immediately assimilated into the entire collective.
It’s a great episode in terms of characterization and poignancy, but the plot device itself makes no sense. The probe is meant to be used one time and then shut down forever in order to preserve their civilization? At the very least allow it to be used more than once.