Briefing Sheet

The space shuttle orbiter Enterprise is on display at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. The story of Enterprise’s name illustrates how popular culture can inspire science. This prototype orbiter was originally named “Constitution” in honor of the nation’s bicentennial in 1976. It was scheduled to be unveiled on Constitution Day, September 17, 1976. However, more than 400,000 fans of the television show Star Trek successfully petitioned President Gerald Ford to change the name to Enterprise in celebration of the fictional starship.

Jerome Glenn was instrumental in naming the orbiter Enterprise. In a briefing to key members of President Ford’s staff, Glenn underscored the size and influence of the Star Trek community, as outlined in this document.