Athena, portrayed by Maren Jensen in the original Battlestar Galactica series (1978), is a central character within the colonial fleet. As the daughter of Commander Adama and sister to Captain Apollo, Athena serves as a bridge officer on the Galactica. Her character is defined by a combination of intelligence, loyalty, and resilience. Athena exhibits exceptional piloting skills, navigating the challenging circumstances faced by the remnants of humanity as they flee the relentless pursuit of the robotic Cylons.

Despite the formidable challenges presented by the ongoing conflict, Athena remains a steadfast and compassionate presence, contributing to the cohesion of the Galactica's crew. Her relationship with Apollo adds a layer of familial and emotional depth to the series, showcasing the personal sacrifices and connections forged in the face of interstellar adversity. Athena's character in Battlestar Galactica reflects the series' exploration of human resilience and unity in the midst of existential threats.