The budget is classified, but roughly half of TNG's.

Yes, there is the potential for planetary visits. It may even be
seen this season.

Yes, we're doing virtual sets...and there's a doozy in the first
little bit of act one in "Signs and Portents."

Sinclair's hole will be filled in as we go.

jms

Actually, the virtual set can be seen in "Signs" in May.

jms