Every year, on September 8, Star Trek Day celebrates fans’ appreciation for adventure, science and exploration. That spirit comes alive at the Intrepid Museum, where the Space Shuttle Enterprise—a vessel whose name was influenced by Star Trek fans—inspires visitors to reach for the stars.
Collection of the Intrepid Museum. Gift of Robert and Sue Ann Dilts. P2011.48.16
The orbiter was initially designated “Constitution,” in honor of the U.S. Constitution. However, the enthusiastic community of Star Trek fans had a different name in mind. They orchestrated a massive letter-writing campaign to the White House, urging NASA to name the shuttle after the starship Enterprise from the beloved TV series.
Although President Gerald Ford never directly mentioned the campaign, he reportedly was “partial to the name” and directed NASA to make the switch.
The cast of Star Trek greets the Space Shuttle Enterprise as it rolls out of the hangar. (Image credit: NASA | Chris Cohen).
The connection was cemented in 1976 at Rockwell’s Air Force Plant 42 in California, where Star Trek’s creator Gene Roddenberry and most of the original series cast attended the shuttle’s dramatic rollout. Unlike its namesake, Enterprise was built as a test vehicle, designed to perform approach and landing trials that paved the way for future operational orbiters. After traveling around the country, it made its way to the Intrepid Museum to be displayed for visitors.
To get to the Museum, the orbiter traveled on top of the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, a modified Boeing 747, from the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC to JFK Airport. Placed on a barge, Enterprise embarked on a multi-day trip traversing New Jersey and journeying up the Hudson River. Enterprise arrived at the Intrepid Museum on July 19, 2012.
Collection of the Intrepid Museum. Gift of Charles Guibord. P2021.41
Now housed in the Space Shuttle Pavilion on Intrepid’s flight deck, the shuttle is a must-see for visitors. Viewers can walk directly underneath the orbiter or ascend an elevated platform for a view of Enterprise’s size and design.
Today, the Space Shuttle Pavilion offers an unmissable experience for Star Trek fans, history buffs and anyone inspired by the spirit of exploration. Whether you grew up watching Captain Kirk or simply marvel at human innovation, Enterprise stands as a bridge between science fiction and aerospace history—ready for visitors to experience up close and personal.
Child viewing Enterprise in the Space Shuttle Pavilion. Credit: Intrepid Museum
Ready to explore? Tickets to visit the Museum to see Enterprise can be purchased here. Explore our collections at intrepid.emuseum and our digital guide.
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