Star Trek: The Original Series first aired on Sept. 8, 1966, and with it came incredible changes to our world. Using symbolism, Star Trek taught many generations how to think critically and examine the world around them. LeVar Burton as Geordi La Forge of the Paramount+ original series STAR TREK: PICARD. It is that optimism that allowed Star Trek to make a lasting impact on how we choose to shape our world. These are just a few of the ways Star Trek has shaped us.