Late 22nd century heavy cruiser and science ship.The Daedalus-class was a class of Starfleet vessel that, unlike most later Federation starship designs was designed with a spherical primary hull, outwardly similar to the later Olympic class. This class, which operated with a crew of 229, was decommissioned by the year 2196.
The Daedalus class is well known as the first of the heavy exploratory ships. It is responsible for countless first contacts and more than a few real screw ups. Many sailed into the unknown, never to be seen again.
The Daedalus established many of Starfleet's procedures and best practices. It was the practical laboratory in which the modern Starfleet was forged.