An immense, cloud-like entity of vast power is detected on a direct course for Earth, destroying everything in its path. The entity, referred to as V'Ger, is a mystery that prompts the reassembling of an elite space crew. Admiral James T. Kirk assumes command of the newly refitted starship Enterprise to intercept and analyze the threat. With tensions running high and the crew somewhat rusty after significant time apart, they must navigate both interpersonal differences and the perils of deep space.

Upon reaching V'Ger, the crew of the Enterprise encounters an array of challenges. Their mission evolves from one of potential confrontation to a quest for understanding. Commander Spock, dealing with his own internal struggle, feels a strange affinity with V'Ger and risks his life to make contact. The crew's realization that V'Ger's motivations are not as they seem drives them to solve a puzzle with implications much larger than they initially anticipated.