Resurfaced: The Lost Star Trek Enterprise Model Returns Home

by Rosa August 20, 2019

written by Rosa August 20, 2019

Resurfaced: The Lost Star Trek Enterprise Model

Discovery and History

Nearly half a century after its disappearance, the original model of the USS Starship Enterprise from the iconic “Star Trek” series has finally made its way back home. The 33-inch model, which graced the opening credits of the original series, has been reunited with Eugene Roddenberry Jr., the son of the show’s creator, Gene Roddenberry.

The model’s absence began in 1979 when Roddenberry Sr. lent it to the makers of “Star Trek: The Motion Picture.” Unfortunately, it was never returned, and its whereabouts remained a mystery for decades.

Last fall, the spaceship unexpectedly resurfaced on eBay, listed as a “Rare Custom Star Trek USS Enterprise Spaceship by Richard Datin.” The seller, who discovered the item in a storage unit, contacted Heritage Auctions after receiving numerous inquiries.

Authentication and Restoration

Experts at Heritage Auctions verified the model’s authenticity, prompting them to contact Eugene Roddenberry Jr. to reunite him with the lost artifact. Roddenberry assembled a team of Star Trek production veterans, including Gary Kerr, to authenticate and restore the model.

Kerr, who had worked on the restoration of an 11-foot Enterprise model for the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, still possessed old photos of the original model on Gene Roddenberry Sr.’s desk. By comparing these photos to the newly discovered model, the team unanimously concluded that it was the genuine article.

Value and Importance

While other models of the Enterprise exist, this one holds a unique significance as the original. Roddenberry Jr. estimates that it could easily fetch over $1 million at auction, but he considers it a “priceless” piece of television history.

The Enterprise has become an iconic symbol of the Star Trek franchise, inspiring countless other fictional spacecraft. Walter Jefferies, the art director who designed the fictional craft, aimed to create something that was both futuristic and groundbreaking.

Future Plans

Roddenberry Jr. intends to ensure that this one-of-a-kind artifact is accessible to the public. He plans to have it restored and displayed in a museum, where it can be appreciated by Star Trek fans and enthusiasts alike.

Additional Details

The model was built by Richard Datin of the Howard Anderson special-effects company.
The model is made from solid wood.
The model was listed on eBay with a starting bid of $1,000.
The model was discovered in a storage unit.
The model was used in the opening credits of the original “Star Trek” series.
The model was authenticated by a team of Star Trek production veterans.
The model is currently being restored.
The model will likely be displayed in a museum in the future.

Rosa

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.