On September 8, 1966, the first episode of Star Trek aired on television, and the world of sci-fi media was changed forever. Premiering in the middle of the space race–three years before the moon landing–Star Trek dreamed of where our journeys to the stars could take us. A future utopia where mankind voyages across galaxies, peacefully seeking out new forms of life and strange new worlds to explore.
Star Trek broke barriers with its multiracial cast and its portrayal of women, using space adventures as analogies to comment on civil rights issues of the day. The unique vision of the Star Trek universe sparked a cult following that has persisted for 57 years. With the newer JJ Abrams films and current shows like Lower Decks and Strange New Worlds, the Trekkie fandom is still going strong.
Celebrate Star Trek Day on September 8, and check out our favorite picks for Star Trek fans, including books all about the history of the show, out of this world cocktail recipes, and all things Kirk and Spock!