Star Trek is a popular science fiction franchise that began with a television series created by Gene Roddenberry in 1966. The show is set in the future and follows the adventures of the starship USS Enterprise and its crew as they explore space, encounter new civilizations, and uphold the principles of peace and cooperation. The franchise has expanded to include multiple television series, films, books, and merchandise. Key themes include exploration, diversity, and the ethical dilemmas faced by humanity. Notable characters include Captain James T. Kirk, Spock, and Captain Jean-Luc Picard, who have become iconic figures in popular culture.