The release of the 2009 Star Trek film marked the inception of the Kelvin Timeline, introducing a distinct alternate reality that featured numerous changes from the Prime Universe. One noteworthy alteration is the location where the USS Enterprise was constructed. Among the various iterations of the USS Enterprise, the version commanded by Captain Kirk, portrayed by Chris Pine, stands out as exceptionally iconic. However, it is crucial to note that Pine’s portrayal navigates a different path compared to William Shatner’s Prime Universe version, with significant reasons underlying this shift.
The catalyst for this alternate timeline, as envisioned by J.J. Abrams, was the destruction of the USS Kelvin in the 23rd century. This catastrophic event set in motion a series of events that began to diverge from the established Prime Universe while remaining part of the broader multiversal canon. A major fallout of the Kelvin’s destruction was the dramatic change in Kirk’s journey in the Kelvin Timeline. Although Abrams aimed to maintain a sense of organic continuity within most of the narrative adjustments, one key change was introduced purely for story development purposes, and it successfully served that narrative need.
Kirk as the Catalyst for Changes in the Kelvin Timeline
The Unique Journey of Chris Pine’s Kirk
Chris Pine’s Kirk embarked on a uniquely different journey to Starfleet compared to his predecessor. In the Kelvin Timeline, Kirk’s self-destructive behavior distanced him from his destined future. As a result, Abrams opted for a narrative approach that brought Starfleet to Kirk by constructing the USS Enterprise in Iowa. This strategic choice enabled Kirk to witness the majestic ship’s construction, serving as a pivotal moment that inspired him to join Starfleet.
This narrative adjustment illustrates the compromises Abrams made to fit his reimagined storyline. In contrast, Shatner’s Kirk had a more organic motivation for joining Starfleet, inspired primarily by his father’s legacy. In the Kelvin universe, however, George Kirk, played by Chris Hemsworth, met a tragic end before Pine’s character could ever know him, leading the younger Kirk to initially harbor resentment towards Starfleet.
Construction of the USS Enterprise in the Prime Timeline
Enterprise Constructed in Earth Orbit
In contrast to the Kelvin Timeline, the USS Enterprise as depicted in Star Trek: The Original Series was primarily constructed in Earth’s orbit. Specifically, it was assembled at a renowned facility known as the San Francisco Fleet Yards. This location not only witnessed the assembly of the USS Enterprise but also played a significant role in the construction and launching of several other Starfleet vessels, including the USS Discovery, as noted in Star Trek: Discovery Season 5. The San Francisco Fleet Yards has become an iconic location frequently featured throughout the evolving Star Trek saga.