STARDATE Meaning and
Definition
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Stardate is a term primarily used in the fictional universe of Star Trek to denote a system of time measurement. The concept of stardate was conceived by the creators of Star Trek as a means to establish a consistent timeline across different episodes and series. It serves as a tool to give a sense of chronological order in the vast expanse of space explored by the characters of the show.
In essence, stardate is a numerical representation of a specific moment or event in time, relative to the fictional future depicted in Star Trek. It typically consists of a series of digits with decimal points, usually displayed in a four or five-digit format.
However, unlike conventional timekeeping methods, stardates do not correspond to any specific Earth-based calendar or unit of time. They are intentionally left ambiguous, allowing for flexibility in the storytelling. This ambiguity often serves as a narrative device to emphasize the focus on exploration and adventure rather than strict adherence to conventional time measurement.
Stardates provide a reference point for characters to track the progression of events and mark the passage of time within the Star Trek universe. They serve as a common timestamp for characters across different space-faring civilizations, facilitating cross-referencing and understanding between various storylines and episodes.
Etymology of STARDATE
The word "stardate" was originally created for the science fiction television series "Star Trek". It was used to refer to a system of dating in order to establish a chronological timeline within the show. The etymology of the word itself, however, does not have a clear origin outside of the context of "Star Trek". It was coined by the show's writer and producer, Gene Roddenberry, and there is no known linguistic or historical connection to the word before its use in the series.
