Are All Series of Star Trek Set in the Same Universe?

The Star Trek franchise is vast and spans across several series, films, and even spin-offs. This raises the question of whether all these stories take place within the same universe, or if they exist in multiple timelines and alternative universes. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the timeline and continuity of the major Star Trek series and films.

Understanding the Starfleet Timeline

The timeline of Star Trek can be complex, with various series and films interconnected or set in different timelines. The vast majority of Star Trek content exists within the same shared universe, which has been built and woven together throughout the years. However, there are exceptions, such as the reboot films featuring Chris Pine as Captain Kirk, which take place in an alternate timeline called 'The Kelvinverse.'

Series and Their Placements in the Timeline

Enterprise (2001-2005): Set approximately 100 years before the events of Star Trek: The Original Series (TOS), Enterprise provides an earlier glimpse into the history of the United Federation of Planets. Discovery (2017-2023): Split into seasons 1-2 and seasons 3-5, Discovery is set in a universe separate from the main timeline and the Kelvinverse. The third and fourth seasons explore an alternative universe, while the first and second seasons showcase a more intricate continuity with the original timeline. Strange New Worlds (2023-present): This series also explores a separate universe, with a continuing effort to link it with the main series timelines. While it shares similar events, it does not fully align with the original chronology. Original Series (1966-1971): The original series is the cornerstone of the Star Trek universe, setting the foundation for future stories. Episodes from the first season, especially, have some continuity errors with later seasons, but the majority of the series is firmly placed in the main timeline. Films 1-6 (1979-2009): These films are set in the main Starfleet timeline, maintaining continuity with the original series and later series. The Next Generation (1987-1994): The first three seasons overlap with the original series, while the next three seasons overlap with Deep Space 9. This crossover helps maintain a unified continuity. Deep Space Nine (1993-1999): The first three seasons of DS9 overlap with the first three seasons of The Next Generation, creating a seamless transition between the two series. Voyager (1995-2001): The first three seasons of Voyager overlap with DS9 and Films 7, while the final three seasons of Voyager and the final three films take place in the same universe but with a slight temporal gap. Picard (2020-present): Set at the end of the 24th century, Picard is a prequel to The Next Generation and takes place in the main Starfleet timeline. Lower Decks (2020-present): This animated series is set in the 24th century and mainly focuses on Enterprise, The Next Generation, and Voyager personnel, maintaining continuity with these series. Prodigy (2022-2023): This is set in the 25th century and continues the story of crew members from Enterprise and Discovery. Enterprise (again, animated spinoff): This animated series is also set in the 22nd century and provides a more detailed view of the early Star Trek universe.

Alternative Timelines and Separate Universes

Several series within the Star Trek franchise exist in alternative timelines or separate universes:

Discovery (seasons 1-2 and 3-5): Discovery seasons 1 and 2 exist in a separate universe, while seasons 3-5 are part of the main timeline but maintain a unique continuity. Strange New Worlds: Although this series shares similarities with the main timeline, it is set in a separate universe and is not fully aligned with the original storylines. Kelvinverse: The movies featuring Chris Pine as Captain Kirk take place in a parallel timeline known as the Kelvinverse, which is distinct from the main Starfleet universe.

It is important to note that the Star Trek universe is complex and intricate, with various timelines and alternative continuities. While the majority of the series and films take place within the same universe, there are notable exceptions that create new and distinct timelines.

Conclusion

The Star Trek universe is vast, and its timeline and continuity are intricate. The vast majority of the series and films shared the same universe, with occasional exceptions like the Kelvinverse and separate timelines. Fans of the franchise will appreciate the complexity and the rich tapestry of history that defines the Star Trek universe.