Original Star Trek pilot filming model found and restored

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SAN DIEGO (WLNS) — It’s not every day a piece of science fiction history is discovered, but that’s exactly what happened with the original 33-inch USS Enterprise model from “Star Trek: The Original Series.”

The model was designed by production designer Matt Jefferies and built by model maker Richard C. Datin Jr. in 1964. The model was used to film the opening credit Enterprise fly-by shots as well as effects shots for the “Star Trek: The Original Series” pilot episode “The Cage.”

From the late 1960s to the early 1970s the model resided on the desk of Star Trek’s creator, Gene Roddenberry. In the late 1970s Roddenberry loaned the model to Paramount during the productions of “Star Trek: The Motion Picture,” after which it disappeared.

Fast forward 45 years to October 2023 and the original 33-inch model was discovered in a storage unit and listed on eBay. In April of 2024 Heritage Auctions arranged for the return of the USS Enterprise model to Eugene “Rod” Roddenberry Jr., the son of Gene Roddenberry.

Since then the model has undergone restoration efforts to help stabilize the model and preserve it for future generations to view and enjoy.

Preservation is a key focus for Roddenberry Entertainment CEO Rod Roddenberry, who sat down for an interview at San Diego Comic-Con. The 33-inch USS Enterprise model was on display at the Paramount+ Lodge, giving fans the opportunity to get an up close view of this piece of Star Trek history.

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