By Steve Krutzler / 06:47, 10 March 2004 / Enterprise

The official STAR TREK web site has published its production report for the 23rd episode of ENTERPRISE's season, "Countdown." Directed by Robert Duncan McNeill ("Twilight"), "Countdown" continues the action-packed progression toward stopping the Xindi's attack on Earth.

"In this chapter the Xindi are ready to initiate the weapon's arming sequence, despite opposition within their ranks. Those dissenting factions agree to help Captain Archer's crew stop that "countdown" from commencing ... but with conditions," writes the report.

The site reports that the episode involved numerous sets, from most of the Enterprise's standing locales to Degra's vessel, the Xindi-Avian residence seen first in "The Council," a white "transdimensional realm" for the Sphere-Builders, and even the interior of the Xindi superweapon itself.

The guest cast will remain mostly steady as the season comes to a close, with the Xindi characters recurring and Steven Culp back as 'Major Hayes'. Stunt actors pulled extra duty on "Countdown"'s smattering of action scenes.

The episode is written by Andre Bormanis and Chris Black ("Hatchery," "Doctor's Orders," "The Forgotten"), and slated to air May 19th. The season finale "Zero Hour" is in production as we speak, under the direction of Allan Kroeker ("The Xindi").

For more information, including photos from the shoot, visit this page.