The Galaxy class carries autonomous survival and recovery vehicles (ASRVs) three meters in length and height with accommodation for up to six persons. These lifeboats can be docked to each other, in order to form larger clusters.

The term ASRV is mentioned in the TNGTM. It may be a more formal name for escape pods or lifeboats in general, or it may be a special or new type used on the Galaxy-class. Since already ships of the Constitution-class were supposed to have escape pods, the TNGTM states that this type of ASRVs were introduced as late as 2337 for the Renaissance-class.