Building Star Trek

Building Star Trek is a captivating documentary series that aired on the Smithsonian Channel in 2016 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Star Trek, an iconic science fiction drama series that originally aired way back in the 1960s. As a tribute to the show's enduring legacy and its exceptional cultural significance, the series aims to reconstruct and preserve the many bold novelties that made Star Trek a pioneer in the realm of science fiction.

In Building Star Trek, filmmakers take the audience on an immersive expedition to two of the largest Star Trek archives in existence—the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, and the EMP Museum in Seattle. The journey begins with an exploration of the authentic Star Trek artifacts held in these museums, noting their historical importance and tracing their origins. The series provides viewers with an in-depth look at some of the classic technology seen in the original Star Trek—items like Captain Kirk’s Command Chair and the navigation console, along with other beloved memorabilia.

More than merely an homage to vintage props, however, Building Star Trek examines these iconic Star Trek creations in a modern context, highlighting their influence on the fields of science and technology. The series uniquely intertwines a thoughtful appreciation of the past with a reflection on the impact these technologies have had on the present and might continue to have on the future.

The film delves into the reality behind Star Trek's groundbreaking concept design by inviting leading scientists and engineers to discuss whether the futuristic gadgets seen on the show – like the cloaking devices, teleporters, and phasers – have, or could have, practical applications in real-world science. In surprising and engaging ways, the program underscores how some of the seemingly fantastical inventions of Star Trek inspired real technological advancements, pushing the frontiers of what was considered possible during the show's time—and even today.

Incorporating interviews with experts and innovators in different scientific fields, the program provides thoughtful commentary on the imaginative overlap between science fiction and reality. From theoretical physicists talking about the feasibility of teleportation, to technologists exploring the world of artificial intelligence, holography, and advanced weaponry, the series is a testament to Star Trek's comprehensive influence on science and innovation.

Practical exhibition building also forms a notable part of the series, offering a hands-on insight into the attempts to restore the 11-foot, 1-inch studio model of the USS Enterprise from the original Star Trek. This renovation project is well-documented, showing the meticulous efforts of the curators and conservators to bring back the model to its former glory.

Furthermore, the series investigates in an engaging manner how the forward-thinking ideals of Star Trek transcended its time and continue to resonate. The show's progressive approach to challenging social and cultural norms, its multicultural cast, visionary depiction of space exploration, and belief in a utopian future collectively underscored the paramount power of TV to influence societal thought and inspire generations.

Building Star Trek is more than simply a fan tribute; it is a thoughtful scientific examination, a journey into the realms of preservation and conservation, and a celebration of the enduring legacy and imagination that bolstered Star Trek from mere science fiction into a veritable institution. It tells a compelling story of how the visions of a speculative future can propel humanity towards new frontiers in science, technology, and society.

Whether you're a Star Trek devotee or simply curious about the intersection of science fiction and reality, Building Star Trek offers an intriguing and entertaining look at where the dreams of imaginary future have brought us—and where they could potentially lead. If you've ever found yourself captivated by the technologies of Starfleet and the United Federation of Planets, this series will only deepen your appreciation for the complexities of real-world science and the brilliance of a half-century-old television show that continues to inform the present and inspire the future.