Star Trek fans aim for Vulcan salute record
Hundreds of fans will gather at London's Science Museum on Star Trek Day, 8 September, to try and set the first Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous Vulcan salute.
Hundreds of Star Trek fans will assemble at London's Science Museum on 8 September. Their goal is to set the first-ever Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous Vulcan salute.
The event coincides with Star Trek Day, a date celebrated by the franchise's global fanbase. The iconic hand gesture, with the middle and ring fingers parted, was popularised by Leonard Nimoy's character, Spock. It first appeared in a 1967 episode of the original television series.
Glyn Morgan, the museum's principal curator, linked the attempt to the institution's mission. "For 60 years, Star Trek has connected bold storytelling with big questions about science, technology and what might be possible in the future," Morgan said. He noted these themes are central to the Science Museum's purpose. Morgan added the south Kensington museum was also glad to invite fans to a final opportunity to experience the Star Trek Warp Trail, which is included in the event ticket, following a popular Star Trek Lates earlier this year.
Event details and museum trail
An official Guinness adjudicator will be present to verify the record attempt. Success would establish a new category in the record books, as no current record exists for a mass Vulcan salute.
The museum is also offering attendees a final chance to experience its Star Trek Warp Trail. This exhibit is included with the event ticket.
Exhibits on display
The Warp Trail features several notable costumes from the franchise's long history. Key items on display include uniforms worn by actors in recent film and television productions.
| Exhibit Item | Worn By | Production |
|---|---|---|
| Chief engineer Scotty's uniform | Simon Pegg | 2009 film Star Trek |
| Admiral Jean-Luc Picard's uniform | Sir Patrick Stewart | Star Trek: Picard (2020-2023) |
The enduring Star Trek legacy
Since its debut in the 1960s, the Star Trek universe has expanded significantly. It has spawned numerous television series and feature films. Notable series include The Next Generation, starring Sir Patrick Stewart, and Deep Space Nine and Voyager, the latter starring Kate Mulgrew.
The record attempt at the Science Museum highlights the enduring cultural impact of the franchise. It brings together fans to celebrate a symbol of its optimistic vision.
