These worldwide amateur communities have created episodes that are of particular interest to them, and have even explored taboo and niche topics that were untouched in the official show.

Not only is this evidence of the lasting impact that Star Trek has had on multifarious groups of people, but demonstrates the intersection of two influential ideas in the world of consumer culture. First, these Star Trek fans are co-creating the legacy of the franchise. Second, as groups pursue plotlines that are of local interest, they are creating a true “mini-series” that sits comfortably in the midsection of the long-tail.

www.newvoyages.com (30 million downloads!)
www.ussintrepid.org.uk (Scottish production)
www.hiddenfrontier.com (explored gay themes)