In a galaxy troubled by the tyranny of the Galactic Empire, former scientist Galen Erso is forced to help design a planet-destroying superweapon known as the Death Star. When the Rebel Alliance learns about the new weapon, they track down Galen’s estranged daughter, Jyn Erso, hoping she has information that could aid their cause. Meanwhile, Jyn has fallen into a life of petty crime but is soon swept up by the Rebellion. She reluctantly joins forces with a group of rebels, including a cynical intelligence officer named Cassian Andor and his reprogrammed Imperial droid, K-2SO. Together, they embark on a treacherous mission to locate Galen.

As their journey unfolds, the motley crew faces numerous dangers and moral dilemmas, all while piecing together clues to uncover weaknesses in the Death Star's construction. Along the way, they encounter a blind spiritual warrior named Chirrut Îmwe and his heavily armed friend Baze Malbus, who offer additional guidance and firepower. With time running out, the team must infiltrate Imperial strongholds and gather the necessary intelligence to equip the Rebellion against the looming threat. They must overcome personal conflicts and external obstacles alike as they strive to give hope to a galaxy on the brink of subjugation.