Boldly discover how NASA, the Smithsonian, and the aerospace community helped craft, legitimize, and popularize the beloved television show Star Trek. Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry sought to create a work of science fiction that would immerse viewers not only through clever storylines and modern visual effects, but also by presenting the story in a scientific and technological context that felt believable. To this end, Roddenberry, a former WWII combat pilot, used his connections in the aerospace industry to seek out the latest and greatest technology. This book, authored by Glen E. Swanson, former chief historian at the NASA Johnson Space Center, uncovers the story of how NASA, the Smithsonian, and the aerospace industry helped craft, legitimize, and popularize the beloved television show Star Trek. Further context is provided through the discussion of additional factors behind the success of the show, including merchandising and syndication. AUTHOR: Glen Swanson discovered the connection between NASA and Star Trek during his time as chief historian at the Johnson Space Center, a position he held from 1998 to 2002. He is also the founder of Quest: The History of Spaceflight Quarterly, the world's only peer-reviewed journal focusing on the history of spaceflight, which is now entering its 30th year of continuous publication. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 135 colour and b/w photographs