Book details how NASA and aerospace helped launch Star Trek
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Glen E.
Swanson, former chief historian at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, wrote Inspired Enterprise to detail how NASA, the Smithsonian, and the aerospace industry influenced the creation and popularisation of Star Trek. Swanson’s book examines how the television show drew upon science, technology, and storylines that reflected the era of space exploration. He notes that Star Trek premiered on NBC on September 8, 1966, sixty years ago, and benefited from a connection to the optimism surrounding the Apollo program.
The book explores the roles of institutions like the RAND Corporation and the influence of military themes within the show. Swanson also details how NASA and the Smithsonian contributed to the show’s success, ultimately leading to its widespread syndication and lasting cultural impact. Inspired Enterprise presents well-researched information and includes extensive notes and a bibliography.
Swanson suggests that both Star Trek and the Apollo program emerged from the same decade, with Apollo representing humanity’s first steps into space and Star Trek encouraging continued exploration. The 288-page hardcover book costs $35.00 and is available from Schiffer Books.
