While DS9 was shot on high-quality 35mm film, all the editing, color grading, and groundbreaking visual effects were finished on standard-definition NTSC videotape.
Instead of simply stretching the image, AI upscalers analyze frames to invent missing pixels, increasing resolution while attempting to preserve textures.
In 2026, these efforts remain a "hot" topic, providing a tantalizing glimpse of what a full studio remaster could look like. Why Deep Space 9 Season 1 Needs the HD Treatment star trek deep space 9 s01 ai upscale 1080p 2020 hot
Reviving the Wormhole: The Definitive Guide to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine 1080p AI Upscales
The visual upgrade for Season 1 is immediately noticeable, transforming the viewing experience from a nostalgic smudge into a crisp, modern drama. Visual Improvements While DS9 was shot on high-quality 35mm film,
The coarse fabric of Starfleet uniforms and the metallic sheen of the Promenade became visible.
The work done in 2020 was not just about making Season 1 look better; it was a protest. It was a technological message from the fans to the studio: "Look what we can do without a $12 million budget or a Blu-ray deal." Why Deep Space 9 Season 1 Needs the
A central part of the DS9UP project involved openly sharing comparisons and acknowledging the trade-offs inherent in the work. For instance, the project showed that an AI-upscaled MKV file, while an improvement, was no match for their custom workflow, codenamed "Rubicon". One example highlighted how a particular AI model, 'Artemis', performed much better when given higher quality source material, demonstrating the importance of meticulous preparation.
Why Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Desperately Needed a 2020 AI Upscale