Q; Why didn't Picard suspect Data was behind what was going on from the time that the Bridge had to be evacuated, bearing in mind that Picard ordered everyone to regroup in Engineering and Data walked over to the area of the turbolift leading to the Battle-Bridge instead of the usual exits?
A; If you look carefully, Picard leaves the Bridge before Data. He therefore can have no real idea of what Data is up to. Don't forget, the failure of life-support means nothing to Data, he can carry on regardless. For Picard, though, this is a potentially life-threatening situation. Under these circumstances, some might consider it best to evacuate first and ask questions later.
Q; How come Data can so easily take over the computer by mimicking Picard?
A; We might assume that the Federation have their own sliding scale of priorities when it comes to the issue of giving important orders to the computer. On the two occasions when we've seen Picard set the autodestruct sequence in operation, as well as vocal instruction he has had to give a palm print to confirm his identity. Perhaps if Data had ordered the Enterprise to self destruct, he would have had to fake up a palm print also. However, the orders issued were obviously (I assume) not of a priority which would have merited the computer double-checking the identity of their giver.
Q; Why didn't the crew simply take a shuttle down to the planet to chase Data?
A; My guess is that they couldn't get the shuttle bay doors to open.
I found it curious that Data seemed surprised to see Lore when he walked in. As I've commented before, Lore was beamed out into space, which would not necessarily destroy him, and anyway, Data is an android, and he's not supposed to be capable of feelings. Maybe he is programmed to look as though he has them.
I cannot help but note that in relation to the planet the Enterprise is orbiting upside down. When they get to the starbase, they orbit that sideways on to it. Oh well maybe they draw straws for this or something.
The Best of Both Worlds Part
Two Family Brothers Suddenly
Human Remember Me Legacy Reunion Future Imperfect Final
Mission The Loss Data's Day The Wounded Devil's Due Clues
First Contact Galaxy's Child
Night Terrors Identity Crisis
The Nth Degree Qpid
The Drumhead Half a Life The
Host The Mind's Eye In Theory
Redemption