Overview of Star Trek’s Legacy
- Star Trek’s original series broke new ground and developed a dedicated fanbase, establishing itself as a cult phenomenon.
- The return of The Animated Series has reignited interest, showcasing impressive voice performances from its original cast.
- Enterprise delves into the pioneering days of humanity in space, focusing on interspecies conflicts rather than mutual respect.
Star Trek has captivated audiences since the golden age of television, though its original series was short-lived, concluding after just three seasons. Fast forward to today, and the franchise boasts twelve series available across various streaming platforms, with an exciting new installment, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, anticipated to debut in late 2025.
This ranking of the Star Trek series is based on their real-world release dates rather than the chronological events of their fictional universes, which can often be complex due to varying timelines. As fans continue their passionate debates over the best series, anticipation builds for what the franchise will deliver next.
- Anticipated Release: Expected in 2025 or 2026
Starfleet Academy, located in the iconic San Francisco of the 23rd century, frequently serves as a backdrop and reference in the expansive Star Trek universe across various media. While precise details about the new series remain scarce, it has been confirmed that it will unfold in the 32nd century following a cataclysmic event, revolving around a group of cadets embarking on their journeys into space.
12. Star Trek: The Animated Series
A Rediscovered Gem of Trek History
- Original Air Dates: September 8, 1973 – October 12, 1974
- 2 Seasons, 22 Episodes
After the original series ended in the late 1960s, a significant lull followed until The Next Generation debuted in 1989, allowing the animated series to be largely forgotten for years. Now, Star Trek: The Animated Series is again accessible on Paramount and Netflix. Despite some limitations in animation quality, the robust voice performances, along with the high-caliber writing aligned with Roddenberry’s vision, stand strong.
11. Picard
Exploring the Legacy of The Next Generation
- Original Air Dates: January 23, 2020 – April 20, 2023
- 3 Seasons, 20 Episodes
Following the tremendous success of The Next Generation, which spanned seven years and included multiple films, the series Picard marks a long-awaited return for one of the franchise’s most beloved characters. Set against the backdrop of a turbulent post-Romulus destruction and the aftermath of Star Trek: Nemesis, the show combines deep character exploration with the familiar themes of adventure and discovery.
10. Prodigy
A Unique Chapter in Voyager’s Story
- Original Air Dates: October 28, 2021 – December 29, 2022
- 2 Seasons, 42 Episodes
While not a direct spinoff of Voyager, Star Trek: Prodigy is set in the years following Voyager’s return. It features the character of Captain Janeway, brought back in animated form, and aims to appeal to younger audiences while retaining universal themes. The narrative initiates with the protagonists discovering the USS Protostar and, despite their differences, collaborating to restore it to flight-worthy condition.
9. Voyager
Navigating the Delta Quadrant
- Original Air Dates: January 16, 1995 – May 23, 2001
- 7 Seasons, 172 Episodes
The narrative of Star Trek: Voyager distinguishes itself by shifting focus from mere exploration to survival, as the crew of the USS Voyager is unexpectedly displaced to the Delta Quadrant. Their epic journey back home spans seven seasons filled with perilous encounters and adventures.
8. Enterprise
Humanity’s Initial Foray into Space
- Original Air Dates: September 26, 2001 – May 13, 2005
- 4 Seasons, 98 Episodes
Star Trek: Enterprise serves as a prequel highlighting humanity’s initial steps into deep space. With the title simply being “Enterprise,”it emphasizes a novice Earth still grappling with relationships among more advanced alien races such as the Vulcans, where tension often overshadows diplomatic efforts. Although its run was shorter than anticipated, the series remains alive through various novels and adaptations.
7. Discovery
A Contemporary Exploration of the Star Trek Universe
- Original Air Dates: September 24, 2017 – May 30, 2024
- 5 Seasons, 65 Episodes
Introduced as a prequel, Star Trek: Discovery diverges from Enterprise by beginning just a decade before the Original series. The latter seasons transition into the 32nd century, revealing advanced technologies and delving into themes involving Section 31 and the Mirror Universe. Despite facing criticism over various creative decisions, it has garnered substantial popularity, leading to a spinoff.
6. Short Treks
Complementary to the Discovery Narrative
- Original Air Dates: October 4, 2018 – January 9, 2020
- 2 Seasons, 10 Episodes
While Star Trek: Short Treks is interwoven with Discovery, its episodic format, consisting of shorter episodes lasting between 18 to 20 minutes, allows for broader storytelling within the Star Trek universe. These stand-alone stories add depth and variety, enriching the overall tapestry of the franchise.
5. Strange New Worlds
Highlighting Original Pilot Characters
- Original Air Dates: May 5, 2022 – present
- 2 Seasons, 20 Episodes
The series is fueled by the nostalgic allure of legacy characters like Captain Pike and Spock, focusing on events aboard the USS Enterprise before Captain James Kirk’s rise to command. The story revisits the initial setting from the show’s original pilot nearly fifty years prior, featuring younger incarnations of Kirk and Spock while providing opportunities for supporting characters to expand their arcs.
4. Lower Decks
A Fresh Take in Animation
- Original Air Dates: August 6 – December 19, 2024
- 5 Seasons, 50 Episodes
Star Trek: Lower Decks adopts an animated style that leans into comedic territory, drawing parallels to popular adult animated shows like Family Guy and American Dad. The show subverts traditional expectations by focusing on junior officers instead of renowned figures, whose relatable roles bring a fresh perspective while still delivering exhilarating adventures.
3. Star Trek: The Next Generation
Continuing the Mission
- Original Air Dates: September 28, 1987 – May 23, 1994
- 7 Seasons, 178 Episodes
Initially apprehensive about its potential, Patrick Stewart accepted the role, expecting rapid cancellation—but sixteen movies and a spin-off series later, Star Trek: The Next Generation stands tall as arguably the most beloved series in the franchise. It chronicles significant ground in 24th-century history, including humanity’s first encounters with pivotal forces like the Borg and the enigmatic Q Continuum.