In a speech to the Fourteenth Space Congress in 1977, Gene Roddenberry laid out the three arguments for human space exploration. Now, we revisit his words with Barrett S. Caldwell, PhD, Professor of Industrial Engineering (and Aeronautics and Astronautics) at Purdue. He reflects on Gene's visionary take on the space program and the inspiration that keeps us returning to the stars.

Document and additional references: Beyond the Near Term - April 27, 1977

The Trek Files Season 12 on Memory Alpha

All episodes and documents: The Trek Files on Memory Alpha

Visit the Trekland site for behind-the-scenes access and exclusive merchandise.