Tomorrow is Yesterday - S1-E20
Other mistake: In the end credits the character of Captain Christopher is credited as Major Christopher.
Tomorrow is Yesterday - S1-E20
Other mistake: The Air Force police officer (played by Hal Lynch) was beamed up from inside the records room (after finding Kirk exiting the dark-room) but was returned outside the room... so he was physically transported INTO himself (as opposed to replacing the beamed-up future version at the exact moment and place he was removed as they did the pilot, Christopher).
Chosen answer: If they're in orbit, they're being pulled along by the planet's gravity well, therefore, impulse engines would only be used for minor corrections and would be "on standby" while in orbit, but not active. (Like keeping your car idling without revving the engine and creating plumes of exhaust).
Captain Defenestrator
Thank you for the info.
Movie Nut