The Rogue One Reference You Likely Missed In Andor Episode 4
Considering the timeline of events in the "Star Wars" universe, one might expect to catch a couple of references to other properties in the franchise, especially during a prequel television series like "Andor." Set just a short time before the events of "Rogue One," "Andor" is about Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) and his ascent from just a person looking for his long-lost sister to a dedicated Rebel agent who only wants the wholesale destruction of the Empire. As illustrated by the flashbacks of "Andor," Cassian grows up in a world far removed from galactic combat and politics, but unfortunately, that did not last for long.
Adopted by Maarva Andor (Fiona Shaw), Cassian has a quick wit and an even sharper tongue. At the start of the "Andor" series, Cassian quickly earns the wrath of a private security firm at the edge of the galaxy, but his actions soon get the Empire itself to turn its gaze in his general direction. Episode 4 of "Andor" sees the titular character recruited to help a rag-tag group of rebels who plan on raiding an Imperial outpost, but there is also a quick nod to future events of "Rogue One."
Contains spoilers for "Andor" Episode 4.
The planet that houses the Death Star plan is mentioned during an Imperial meeting
Episode 4 of "Andor" sees the Imperials begin to focus on the events that have taken place on Ferrix, specifically the stolen Imperial Starpath technology that Cassian is attempting to sell. During a meeting of Imperial agents that sees them giving individual reports, one officer explains that additional security is needed because of increased shipments to the planet of Scarif and that these are proactive measures. The officer then says nothing else regarding Scarif, but for fans of "Rogue One," they know exactly what is being referenced and why Scarif is important for future events.
As a refresher, the basic plot of "Rogue One" involves stealing the plans for the Death Star. Unfortunately, the plans for said Death Star are located on the tropical planet of Scarif, which in and of itself is a vast Imperial complex focused on research and development. According to the Wookiepedia, Scarif is located far on the outskirts of the galactic rim, and its remoteness and abundance of raw materials make it perfect for clandestine projects. It is for this reason that the plans for the Death Star are held under lock and key on the planet, but that isn't enough to stop Cassian Andor and Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones) from making the ultimate sacrifice in order to aid the Rebel Alliance in "Rogue One," which directly set up the events of "Star Wars: A New Hope."