The ‘Star Trek’ universe, created by Gene Roddenberry, has been a cornerstone of science fiction since its debut in 1966. Spanning television series, films, novels, and more, ‘Star Trek’ has captivated audiences with its visionary portrayal of space exploration, futuristic technology, and the enduring human spirit.
The original ‘Star Trek’ series introduced viewers to Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner) and the crew of the USS Enterprise as they embarked on a five-year mission “to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before.” This series laid the foundation for the franchise’s themes of diversity, cooperation, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Following the original series, the ‘Star Trek’ universe expanded with multiple television series, each exploring different facets of the cosmos and its inhabitants. ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ (1987-1994), set a century after Kirk’s adventures, followed Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) and his crew, bringing a new level of sophistication and philosophical depth to the franchise. ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,’ ‘Star Trek: Voyager,’ and ‘Star Trek: Enterprise’ further broadened the narrative scope, introducing new characters, species, and ethical dilemmas.
The film adaptations, beginning with ‘Star Trek: The Motion Picture’ in 1979, brought the franchise to the big screen, allowing for more grandiose storytelling and visual effects. The rebooted film series starting in 2009, directed by J.J. Abrams, reimagined the original characters and timeline, attracting a new generation of fans while paying homage to the original series.
In recent years, the ‘Star Trek’ universe has seen a renaissance with new series like ‘Star Trek: Discovery,’ ‘Star Trek: Picard,’ and ‘Star Trek: Lower Decks.’ These shows continue to explore contemporary issues through the lens of science fiction, staying true to Roddenberry’s vision of a hopeful future where humanity thrives through unity and understanding.
The ‘Star Trek’ universe is more than just entertainment; it is a cultural phenomenon that has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in science, technology, and space exploration. Its optimistic outlook on the future, coupled with its exploration of complex moral and social issues, ensures that ‘Star Trek’ will continue to be a guiding light in science fiction for generations to come.
How to Watch Star Trek in Release Order
- Star Trek: The Original Series (1966 – 1969)
- Star Trek: The Animated Series (1973 – 1974)
- Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)
- Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
- Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)
- Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1984)
- Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987 – 1994)
- Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)
- Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)
- Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993 – 1999)
- Star Trek: Generations (1994)
- Star Trek: Voyager (1995 – 2001)
- Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
- Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
- Star Trek: Enterprise (2001 – 2005)
- Star Trek: Nemesis (2002)
- Star Trek (2009)
- Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
- Star Trek Beyond (2016)
- Star Trek: Discovery (2017 – Present)
- Star Trek: Picard (2020 – 2023)
- Star Trek: Lower Decks (2020 – Present)
- Star Trek: Prodigy (2021 – TBA)
- Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (2022 – Present)
How to Watch Star Trek in Chronological Order (Timeline)
- Star Trek: Enterprise (2151-2155)
- Star Trek: Discovery: Seasons 1 and 2 (2256-2258)
- Star Trek (2258) – Alternate Timeline (Optional)
- Star Trek Into Darkness (2259) – Alternate Timeline (Optional)
- Star Trek Beyond (2263) – Alternate Timeline (Optional)
- Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (2259-TBD)
- Star Trek: The Original Series (2265-2269)
- Star Trek: The Animated Series (2269-2270)
- Star Trek: The Motion Picture (2270s)
- Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (2285)
- Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (2285)
- Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (2286)
- Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (2287)
- Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (2293)
- Star Trek: The Next Generation (2364-2370)
- Star Trek Generations (2371)
- Star Trek: First Contact (2373)
- Star Trek: Insurrection (2375)
- Star Trek: Nemesis (2379)
- Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (2369-2375)
- Star Trek: Voyager (2371-2378)
- Star Trek: Lower Decks (2380-TBD)
- Star Trek: Prodigy (2383-TBD)
- Star Trek: Picard (2399-2402)
- Star Trek: Discovery: Seasons 3 and 4 (3188-TBD)
Star Trek: Enterprise (2151-2155)
Premiered on September 26, 2001, and concluded on May 13, 2005, the show ran for four seasons and a total of 98 episodes. Created by Rick Berman and Brannon Braga, “Star Trek: Enterprise” serves as a prequel to the original 1960s “Star Trek” series, exploring the early days of human space exploration.
Set in the 22nd century, roughly a hundred years before the voyages of Captain James T. Kirk and the USS Enterprise, the series follows the adventures of the starship NX-01 Enterprise, the first Earth starship capable of reaching Warp 5. Captain Jonathan Archer, played by Scott Bakula, leads a diverse crew on a mission to explore strange new worlds, seek out new life and new civilizations, and boldly go where no one has gone before.
Star Trek: Discovery (2256-2258)
Season 1
“Star Trek: Discovery” Season 1, which premiered on September 24, 2017, marked a bold and innovative return to the beloved Star Trek universe. Set roughly a decade before the original 1960s “Star Trek” series, the entire season takes place during a tumultuous period in the Star Trek timeline, focusing on the Federation-Klingon War. This conflict serves as the backdrop for the season, presenting a darker and more intense narrative than previous Star Trek series. The show follows the crew of the USS Discovery (NCC-1031), a starship equipped with experimental technology that plays a crucial role in the war effort.
Season 2
“Star Trek: Discovery” Season 2, which premiered on January 17, 2019, picks up where the first season left off, with the USS Discovery encountering the USS Enterprise, commanded by Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount). The season’s central plot revolves around a series of mysterious signals known as the “Red Bursts” and the enigmatic “Red Angel.” The Discovery crew embarks on a mission to uncover the truth behind these phenomena, which leads them across vast regions of space and into the depths of time itself.
Star Trek (2258) – Alternate Timeline
Directed by J.J. Abrams, the 2009 film serves as both a reboot and a prequel, offering fresh takes on beloved characters and their origins.
The plot of ‘Star Trek’ centers around the early days of James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) and Spock (Zachary Quinto) as they join Starfleet and embark on their first mission aboard the USS Enterprise. The story is set in an alternate reality created by the time-traveling Romulan, Nero (Eric Bana), who seeks revenge for the destruction of his home planet, Romulus. This new timeline allows for creative freedom, breathing new life into the narrative while respecting the essence of the original series.
Kirk, a rebellious and talented young man, must prove his worthiness to Captain Pike (Bruce Greenwood) and his fellow officers. Meanwhile, Spock struggles with his dual heritage of Vulcan logic and human emotion, a conflict that shapes his interactions and decisions. The film’s dynamic character development and the chemistry between Pine and Quinto are standout elements, bringing depth and relatability to these iconic roles.
Star Trek Into Darkness (2259) – Alternate Timeline
The 2013 film directed by J.J. Abrams opens with Captain James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) and the USS Enterprise crew on a mission to prevent a volcano from erupting on the planet Nibiru. Upon their return to Earth, they face a new threat when Starfleet is attacked by a mysterious figure, John Harrison (Benedict Cumberbatch). As Kirk and his team pursue Harrison, they uncover a web of intrigue that challenges their loyalties and tests their resolve.
John Harrison, later revealed to be the infamous Khan Noonien Singh, is a genetically engineered superhuman with a personal vendetta against Starfleet. Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Khan is both chilling and charismatic, making him one of the most memorable villains in the Star Trek franchise. His conflict with Kirk brings out the best in both characters, showcasing themes of sacrifice, leadership, and morality.
Star Trek Beyond (2263) – Alternate Timeline
Released in 2016, ‘Star Trek Beyond’ is the third installment in the rebooted Star Trek film series. Directed by Justin Lin, the film takes the crew of the USS Enterprise on a thrilling and visually stunning adventure that celebrates the core spirit of the Star Trek franchise: exploration, camaraderie, and resilience.
Set three years into their five-year mission, ‘Star Trek Beyond’ sees Captain James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) and his crew seeking refuge at Starbase Yorktown, a massive and impressive space station. Their respite is short-lived when a distress call leads them into an ambush by the ruthless Krall (Idris Elba). Stranded on an uncharted planet and with the Enterprise destroyed, the crew must work together to thwart Krall’s plans and survive the hostile environment.
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (2259-TBD)
Premiered on May 5, 2022, this series takes viewers back to the classic era of space exploration, blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling to create a compelling sci-fi adventure. The main plot focuses on the adventures of the starship USS Enterprise under the command of Captain Christopher Pike.
Star Trek: The Original Series (2265-2269)
“Star Trek: The Original Series” which ran between 1966 and 1969, is set in the 23rd century and follows the adventures of the starship USS Enterprise (NCC-1701) on its five-year mission to explore strange new worlds, seek out new life and new civilizations, and boldly go where no man has gone before, under the new command of Captain James T. Kirk, who is the successor of previous captain, Christopher Pike.
Star Trek: The Animated Series (2269-2270)
“Star Trek: The Animated Series” (TAS) holds a special place in the Star Trek franchise, serving as a bridge between the original 1960s series and the later expansions of the Star Trek universe. Premiering in 1973, this animated series set in the 23rd century, follows the continuing five-year mission of the starship USS Enterprise, under the command of Captain James T. Kirk.
Star Trek: The Motion Picture (2270s)
“Star Trek: The Motion Picture,” directed by Robert Wise and released in 1979 centers around a mysterious and immensely powerful alien entity known as V’Ger, which is heading towards Earth, destroying everything in its path. Admiral James T. Kirk (William Shatner) takes command of the newly refitted USS Enterprise to intercept and neutralize the threat. Accompanied by his trusted crew, including Spock (Leonard Nimoy), Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley), and new navigator Ilia (Persis Khambatta), Kirk embarks on a mission that tests their abilities and their understanding of life and consciousness.
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (2285)
“Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” directed by Nicholas Meyer and released in 1982, stands as one of the most celebrated entries in the Star Trek franchise.
The film reintroduces Khan Noonien Singh (Ricardo Montalbán), a genetically engineered superhuman and one of Captain James T. Kirk’s (William Shatner) most formidable adversaries. Khan, exiled to a desolate planet years earlier, seeks vengeance against Kirk for the death of his wife and the suffering of his people. When Khan seizes control of the USS Reliant and a powerful terraforming device called Genesis, he sets the stage for an epic confrontation.
Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (2285)
Released in 1984 and directed by Leonard Nimoy, the film picks up in the aftermath of Spock’s (Leonard Nimoy) heroic sacrifice to save the Enterprise. Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner) and his crew are back on Earth, grappling with the loss of their friend and the damaged Enterprise. However, Spock’s father, Sarek (Mark Lenard), reveals that Spock’s katra, or spirit, is still alive and must be returned to Vulcan. This revelation sets Kirk and his crew on a daring mission to retrieve Spock’s body from the Genesis Planet, a new world created through experimental terraforming technology.
Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (2286)
“Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home,” directed by Leonard Nimoy and released in 1986, is a standout entry in the Star Trek film series.
The plot centers around Admiral James T. Kirk (William Shatner) and his crew as they return to Earth to face charges following their defiance of Starfleet orders in “Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.” Upon their arrival, they discover Earth is under threat from a powerful alien probe attempting to communicate with now-extinct humpback whales. To save their planet, the crew embarks on a time-travel mission to 20th-century San Francisco to retrieve whales that can respond to the probe’s signal.
Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (2287)
“Star Trek V: The Final Frontier,” directed by William Shatner and released in 1989, is a thought-provoking and ambitious entry in the Star Trek franchise.
The plot follows Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner) and the crew of the USS Enterprise as they confront a rogue Vulcan named Sybok (Laurence Luckinbill), who hijacks the starship on a mission to find the mythical planet Sha Ka Ree, believed to be the source of all creation. Sybok, Spock’s half-brother, uses his unique ability to reveal and heal people’s deepest emotional pain to gain followers, including members of the Enterprise crew.
Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (2293)
“Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country,” directed by Nicholas Meyer and released in 1991, serves as a powerful and poignant conclusion to the adventures of the original Star Trek crew.
Set in the aftermath of a catastrophic explosion on the Klingon moon Praxis, the film follows Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner) and the crew of the USS Enterprise as they are tasked with escorting Klingon Chancellor Gorkon (David Warner) to peace talks with the Federation. However, when Gorkon is assassinated, Kirk and Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley) are framed for the murder, leading to a tense trial and imprisonment on the icy planet Rura Penthe.
Star Trek: The Next Generation (2364-2370)
“Star Trek: The Next Generation” (TNG), which premiered in 1987, marked a significant and successful evolution of the Star Trek franchise. Created by Gene Roddenberry, this series introduced audiences to a new era of space exploration set nearly a century after Captain Kirk’s adventures.
The series is set aboard the USS Enterprise-D, commanded by the wise and diplomatic Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart). The diverse crew includes Commander William Riker (Jonathan Frakes), the android Lieutenant Commander Data (Brent Spiner), the empathic ship’s counselor Deanna Troi (Marina Sirtis), Chief Engineer Geordi La Forge (LeVar Burton), and the Klingon security officer Worf (Michael Dorn). This ensemble cast brought depth and variety to the narrative, allowing for a wide range of stories that explored both personal and societal issues.
Star Trek Generations (2371)
“Star Trek Generations,” a cinematic marvel directed by David Carson and released in 1994, serves as a pivotal crossover between the iconic Original Series and the beloved “The Next Generation” era.
The story begins with the maiden voyage of the USS Enterprise-B, helmed by Captain John Harriman. During a routine rescue mission, the Enterprise encounters a mysterious energy ribbon known as the Nexus, which has the power to grant those who enter it their deepest desires. Decades later, Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the USS Enterprise-D are thrust into a battle against Dr. Tolian Soran, a brilliant scientist driven by an insatiable desire to return to the Nexus. As Picard races to stop Soran from destroying entire star systems to alter the ribbon’s path, he discovers that Kirk has been trapped within the Nexus for decades.
Star Trek: First Contact (2373)
Directed by Jonathan Frakes and released in 1996, the film unfolds as the Borg, a cybernetic species hell-bent on assimilating all life forms into their collective consciousness, launches a relentless assault on Earth. In a desperate bid to prevent humanity’s assimilation, Captain Jean-Luc Picard leads the Enterprise on a daring mission to travel back in time to the year 2063, which marked the humanity’s first contact with alien life.
Star Trek: Insurrection (2375)
“Star Trek: Insurrection,” was released in 1998 and directed by Jonathan Frakes.
Set against the backdrop of the idyllic Ba’ku planet, “Star Trek: Insurrection” follows Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the USS Enterprise-E as they become embroiled in a complex moral quandary. When it is revealed that the Ba’ku possess a unique and life-extending radiation emanating from their planet’s rings, the Federation and the villainous Son’a seek to exploit this resource for their own gain.
Picard, guided by his unwavering principles, refuses to condone the forced relocation of the Ba’ku—a peaceful and harmonious society—despite pressure from Starfleet Command. Instead, he leads a rebellion to defend the Ba’ku’s way of life, challenging the Federation’s authority and risking his own career in the process.
Star Trek: Nemesis (2379)
“Star Trek: Nemesis,” released in 2002 and directed by Stuart Baird, is a compelling addition to the Star Trek film series.
The plot centers around Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) and the crew of the USS Enterprise-E as they encounter a new nemesis, Shinzon (Tom Hardy), a clone of Picard created by the Romulans. Shinzon, now a powerful and vengeful leader of the Reman race, poses a threat not only to the Federation but also to Picard’s sense of self and purpose. As the Enterprise faces off against Shinzon’s formidable warship, the crew must confront their own inner demons and make difficult choices that will shape the fate of the galaxy.
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (2369-2375)
“Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” (DS9), which aired from 1993 to 1999, is a groundbreaking addition to the Star Trek franchise that diverges from the traditional format of previous series.
The series begins with Commander Benjamin Sisko assuming command of Deep Space Nine, a strategically vital outpost near the Bajoran wormhole, which connects the Alpha and Gamma Quadrants. The Bajoran people, recovering from decades of oppression under the Cardassians, look to the Federation for assistance and guidance. Meanwhile, the discovery of the wormhole brings new opportunities for exploration and trade, but also attracts the attention of powerful and enigmatic forces, including the Dominion, a ruthless empire from the Gamma Quadrant.
Star Trek: Voyager (2371-2378)
“Star Trek: Voyager,” which premiered in 1995 focuses on Captain of USS Voyager, Kathryn Janeway and her crew stranded in the uncharted Delta Quadrant after being flung 70,000 light-years away from Federation space by a powerful entity known as the Caretaker.
Star Trek: Lower Decks (2380-TBD)
“Star Trek: Lower Decks” boldly goes where no Star Trek series has gone before, offering a comedic and irreverent take on the beloved franchise. Premiering in 2020, this animated series follows the misfit crew of the USS Cerritos, a less glamorous Starfleet vessel tasked with second-contact missions and routine assignments in the Lower Decks.
Created by Mike McMahan, “Star Trek: Lower Decks” provides a fresh perspective on the Star Trek universe, focusing on the unsung heroes who keep the ship running while the senior officers take the spotlight.
Star Trek: Prodigy (2383-TBD)
Developed by Kevin and Dan Hageman, the 2021 animated series centers around a group of resourceful young aliens who stumble upon an abandoned Starfleet vessel known as the USS Protostar. Determined to unlock the ship’s mysteries and carve out their own destinies, the intrepid crew embarks on a daring adventure across the far reaches of space.
Star Trek: Picard (2399-2402)
Premiered in 2020, the series takes place two decades after the events of “Star Trek: Nemesis” and follows the retired Starfleet officer Captain Jean-Luc Picard, who is drawn back into the world of space exploration after an encounter with a young woman named Dahj. As Picard delves into Dahj’s mysterious origins, he uncovers a conspiracy involving rogue factions within Starfleet and a sinister plot that threatens the stability of the entire galaxy.
Star Trek: Discovery (3188-TBD)
Season 3
Set over 900 years ahead of the events in previous seasons, the new season which premiered on October 15, 2020 kicks off with Commander Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) and the crew arriving in the year 3188, a time period where the United Federation of Planets has significantly diminished due to a catastrophic event known as “The Burn.” This mysterious calamity caused the galaxy’s dilithium supplies to suddenly combust, leading to widespread chaos and the collapse of interstellar travel. The Discovery crew’s mission to understand and ultimately rectify this disaster forms the crux of Season 3’s narrative.
Season 4
Set in the 32nd century, Season 4 of ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ which premiered on November 18, 2021 sees Captain Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) and her crew facing unprecedented challenges in the aftermath of “The Burn,” a galaxy-wide disaster that destabilized the Federation by causing dilithium, the crucial element for warp travel, to combust.
The new season introduces a formidable new threat: a massive gravitational anomaly known as the Dark Matter Anomaly (DMA), a mysterious phenomenon responsible for wreaking havoc across the galaxy, destroying entire planets and destabilizing star systems.
Follow us on twitter or sign up to our newsletter for latest updates.
