Star Trek

SEPTEMBER 8, 1966 – JUNE 3, 1969

Star Trek is far more than a successful television show, but a multi-faceted entertainment franchise and a cultural phenomenon. For half a century, the franchise has generated a true sense of wonder at the possibilities of the universe—a science fictional lens through which the writers and producers examine important social issues of our times.

Created by Gene Roddenberry, Star Trek follows the crew of the starship U.S.S. Enterprise as they explore new worlds and “boldly go where no man has gone before.” The show presented an optimistic future—unusual for the times—and made a specific point of depicting a multi-ethnic crew working together to explore space.

Beyond its popularity, Star Trek has strongly impacted many facets of our culture. Scientists, astronauts, engineers, and technologists have been inspired by the series to explore space and to replicate the show’s futuristic technologies. In the entertainment world, Star Trek has inspired countless spoofs, parodies, and homages.

Since the genesis of the series in 1966, Star Trek has generated 5 spin-off shows, 13 films, more than 700 novels, dozens of board and card games, and almost 100 video games.