Stargazing: Sept. 8, 1996: The 1st Episode of “Star Trek” Airs on NBC-TV

Star Trek’s first episode aired on Sept. 8, 1966. Creator Gene Roddenberry dreamed of the science-fiction series two years before the first episode appeared on television and before humans walked on the moon. He pitched the idea of a 23^rd-century starship crew to Desilu Productions, headed by Lucille Ball. After a second pilot was produced, the NBC network brought the new show to its fall lineup. Although the initial series explored the universe for only three seasons, Star Trek became a global phenomenon. The show lived on in a succession of films, spin-off series, and the hearts of “Trekkies.”

The first Space Shuttle tested was named in honor of the famed starship. The original name for the craft had been Constitution. Legions of fans wrote letters convincing President Ford and NASA that when exploring the frontiers of space, only one name would do: Enterprise. With many original cast members, Gene Roddenberry, and NASA administrators present at the rollout, NASA and Star Trek began a long-term association.

Nichelle Nichols, who played Lt. Uhura, would inspire many to see themselves in careers as space pioneers. Leonard Nimoy, Mr. Spock aboard the starship Enterprise, would watch the space shuttle Enterprise take its final passage to its current museum home.

An informal day of celebrations commemorates the first episode. Star Trek Day, September 8, is fêted by fans worldwide.