Miranda-class
Designed to be a smaller and less capable counterpart to the Constitution class, the USS Miranda entered service one year before its larger cousin. There was a very high degree of commonality between the two classes, with the nacelles and most of the primary hull being almost identical.
The smaller size of these ships was largely accounted for by a lower level of habitability for the crew and a reduction in the number of science labs from fourteen to ten. Even so the Miranda's were full Explorer type ships, fully capable of conducting long duration research missions. Their considerable armament also made them an important addition to the defence of the Federation.
Due to its rugged design it has remained in service as a support and logistics ship long after many other comparable ships had been retired. Some Miranda class ships have been in service to Starfleet for over 100 years. The ship is cheap to produce, rugged and easy to upgrade and maintain, and there is no shortage of personnel trained in its operation.
Used by
