The USS Galaxy's initial configuration was remarkably different from the production models. During her 2357 trial runs in the Sol Sector, she had a distinct outer appearance that would be short-lived as her systems were refined and replaced.
- The spaceframe had less viewports, as the crew quarters and other non-essential accommodations had not yet been completed.
- Her bridge module was submerged into the oval superstructure below, the ready room and conference room were still absent.
- The ship's saucer rim configuration was still based on the Nebula Class, which incorporated the LM-series sensor array.
- Her CH-1 Deflector Dish was still in use, it was replaced in 2360 with the finalized CH-2 model.
- The Captain's Yacht was incomplete. A Dummy mock up was attached to the Saucer Section.