Trek Nation comes to Science

Science celebrates the 45th anniversary of one of the greatest television franchises of all time, Star Trek, with the world-premiere two-hour event, Trek Nation. This tribute follows Gene Roddenberry’s son, Rod, as he explores the impact of his father’s singular vision for the future. Through interviews with fans, including George Lucas, J.J. Abrams, Seth MacFarlane, and many notable Star Trek alums, Trek Nation chronicles a son’s journey to discover his father’s work that helped defined science fiction. Trek Nation premieres on Science on Wednesday, November 30th, at 8 PM.

Trek Nation, which was produced for Science by Roddenberry Entertainment and New Animal Productions, draws on hours of exclusive footage, including never-before-seen home movies from the Roddenberry family collection and the first-ever Star Trek convention. This film demonstrates that Roddenberry’s work has not only inspired legions of fans across the globe, but generated a cultural movement. Star Trek is a phenomenon that goes beyond entertainment; it has influenced politics, space travel, social morality and much more. Star Trek was a catalyst which has fostered an enhanced understanding of the human condition, capturing man’s constant search for a better world.

“Gene Roddenberry is the original thought-provocateur; the rebel-genius who was not afraid to push the boundaries of what science can accomplish,” said Science’s Debbie Myers. “Star Trek used science fiction to hold a mirror to society, leveraging its storylines as a platform for social commentary touching on topics such as racism, sexism, the economy, war, peace and religion.”

Star Trek was a revolution that would define an era. When it first premiered on NBC in 1966, it often was described as a western set in space. However, the series provided a much deeper commentary that created a devoted and loyal fan base which continues to grow today. With a then-virtually-unknown cast, each week Roddenberry told tales of humans and aliens who lived side by side and served the Starfleet, the peacekeeping armada of the universe.