Star Trek Viewing Guide: Complete Series Order

Since its groundbreaking debut in 1966 with *Star Trek: The Original Series*, this iconic franchise has expanded across multiple mediums, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. From its humble beginnings as a cult classic to its current status as a sprawling space-faring empire, *Star Trek* has captivated audiences worldwide with its exploration of humanity, morality, and the unknown. With countless shows, feature-length films, novels, and merchandise, navigating the expansive *Star Trek* universe can be overwhelming. To simplify your journey, we’ve crafted this comprehensive guide to help you explore the franchise in either chronological or release order, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the adventure.

For those looking to dive deep into the timeline, Paramount+ has streamlined access to nearly every *Star Trek* series and film, making it easier than ever to catch up with the saga of Kirk, Picard, Janeway, Sisko, Spock, Pike, Archer, Burnham, and more.

Jump to:

• How to Watch Star Trek in Chronological Order
• How to Watch Star Trek by Release Order

How to Watch Star Trek in Chronological Order

1. *Star Trek: Enterprise* (2151-2155)

Set a century before the events of *Star Trek: The Original Series*, *Enterprise* chronicles the adventures of humanity’s first starship capable of reaching warp five. This prequel series, which aired from 2001 to 2005, follows Captain Jonathan Archer and his crew as they pioneer interstellar diplomacy and encounter familiar alien species. Sep 26, 2001

2. *Star Trek: Discovery*: Seasons 1 and 2 (2256-2258)

Premiering before *The Original Series*, *Discovery* introduces viewers to Michael Burnham, a key character who inadvertently sparks a war between the Federation and the Klingons. Despite its early setting, subsequent seasons shift the timeline forward significantly. Jan 7, 2018

3. *Star Trek: Strange New Worlds* (2259-TBD)

Following *Discovery*, *Strange New Worlds* delves deeper into the early days of the *USS Enterprise* under Captain Christopher Pike, bridging the gap between the Kelvin Timeline and the original series. May 5, 2022

4. *Star Trek: The Original Series* (2265-2269)

The legendary series that started it all, *The Original Series* follows Captain James T. Kirk and his crew aboard the *USS Enterprise*. This foundational narrative set the stage for all future iterations of the franchise. Sep 8, 1966

Bonus: The Kelvin Timeline Films (2009’s *Star Trek*, *Star Trek Into Darkness*, and *Star Trek Beyond*)

Set in an alternate timeline, these films reboot the classic series with younger versions of beloved characters while introducing new elements. They can be enjoyed at any point but offer richer rewards for those familiar with the original series.

5. *Star Trek: The Animated Series* (2269-2270)

Building on the legacy of *The Original Series*, this animated continuation revisits the *Enterprise* crew in fresh adventures across the galaxy. Sep 8, 1973

6. *Star Trek: The Motion Picture* (2270s)

Reuniting the original cast, this film marks the return of the *Enterprise* and its crew after their television hiatus. It reintroduces fans to Admiral Kirk and Spock as they confront a mysterious alien entity. Dec 7, 1979

7. *Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan* (2285)

Often hailed as the best Star Trek film, this sequel pits Kirk against Khan Noonien Singh, a genetically enhanced nemesis seeking vengeance. It’s a gripping tale filled with action and emotional depth. Jun 4, 1982

8. *Star Trek III: The Search for Spock* (2285)

Continuing directly from *Wrath of Khan*, this installment explores the aftermath of Spock’s death and his resurrection. The film balances humor, drama, and action while introducing memorable characters. Jun 1, 1984

9. *Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home* (2286 and 1986)

Taking the crew back in time to 1986, this film humorously blends futuristic sci-fi with 1980s nostalgia as they attempt to save Earth from an alien threat. Nov 26, 1986

10. *Star Trek V: The Final Frontier* (2287)

Despite mixed reviews, this film ventures into uncharted territory—literally—when the crew seeks a mythical god-like entity in the galactic center. Jun 9, 1989

11. *Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country* (2293)

Serving as the swan song for the original cast, this film concludes their cinematic journey with themes reminiscent of Cold War politics and global peace efforts.