Star Trek is a groundbreaking science fiction franchise that began with the original television series created by Gene Roddenberry in 1966. Set in the 23rd century, it follows the adventures of the starship USS Enterprise and its diverse crew as they explore new worlds and civilizations in the galaxy. The series, known for its optimistic vision of the future and progressive themes, paved the way for a massive franchise encompassing numerous television series, films, books, and other media. Each episode often presents a new challenge or moral dilemma for the crew, emphasizing themes of cooperation, understanding, and the quest for knowledge. It has become a cultural phenomenon, introducing iconic characters like Captain Kirk, Spock, and Dr. McCoy, and addressing contemporary social issues through allegorical storytelling.

The franchise expanded significantly over the years, producing additional series such as Star Trek: The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Voyager, Enterprise, and more recent series like Discovery and Picard. It has also spawned a dozen feature films, many of which are critically acclaimed and commercially successful, with Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home and Star Trek (2009) among the standout entries. The franchise has become a major force in merchandise and collectibles, with a vast array of products ranging from action figures, model starships, and costumes to home décor, games, and gadgets. Its enduring popularity in its fans, sometimes known as "Trekkies" has led to countless licensed products, with fans eagerly collecting memorabilia to celebrate their love of the series.