“Where no man has gone before.” The introduction of a memorable science fiction series known as Star Trek. Each week, a new episode of this futuristic space world was broadcasted on TV.  Referred to as an international phenomenon, Star Trek inspired a wide range of spin-offs, video games, figurines, novels, and comics.

The first episode of Star Trek aired on television on September 6, 1966. It was about the adventures of Captain James Kirk, Mr. Spock, Leonard McCoy, and the rest of the Enterprise starship crew in outer space. The Enterprise starship was an exploration vessel of the United Federation of Planets (UFP). The UFP is a republic made of planetary sovereignties all agreeing to coexist under one central government. This government is based on the Utopian principles of liberty and equality.

Although Star Trek is loved by many, so is Star Wars. Both of these science fiction series left a great impact and produced entertainment for millions of people. Some people don’t know the difference between the two. Star Trek’s main focus is exploring a system of galactic society made up of different planets and species.

On the other hand, Star Wars is about a galactic society in constant conflict. Some main characters of Star Wars include Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Yoda. Hussein Chami, an 8th grader at Unis Middle School and a fan of Star Wars states that, “Star Trek is more geekier. It’s a good series, but you have to devote a lot of time to understand what’s happening.” Chami adds, “I like Star Wars better because it’s more simple to understand and it has a better plot.”

Star Trek and Star Wars share many similarities as well. Both stories include societies that are composed of various planets and species. A key feature that both of these abstract universes share is technology, whether it be in their advanced transportation or out-of-this-world weapons. Both Trekkies and Star Wars fans have similar fandoms. Most of the time Trekkies are Star Wars fans and vice versa. Sometimes, fans of one of these outer space series have a profound hatred for one or the other.

Star Trek. A world where humans and unknown alien species work together to explore space and solve problems. United under one government. Still winning new fans and making entertainment history 30 years after its first telecast.

Mariam Odeh

Unis Middle School Journalist