Even in another galaxy, the late Nichelle Nichols’ legacy reigns supreme! Following the passing of the renowned “Star Trek” actress and STEM icon, it has been announced that her remains will be spread beyond just the United States, thanks to Celestis. The Texas-based company provides “memorial spaceflight services” for individuals looking to celebrate the life of their loved one outside of just the Earth realm. According to Space.com, the assignment for Nichols marks the company’s first-ever deep space mission.

It’s no secret that “ Star Trek ” is a cinematic force in pop culture, and among its long-running franchise is actress Nichelle Nichols. She was the first Black woman to play a high-powered non-stereotypical role on primetime American television, according to The Washington Post. However, not only was she a pioneer in television, but she also trailblazed the final frontier. Theater and TV Darling Born in Illinois, Nichols gained her career in acting through her love of theater. She performed in local productions in Chicago and in small film roles. Fast forward—she toured with Duke Ellington at the age of 16—Nichols landed the groundbreaking role as Lieutenant Nyota Uhura. Famously, she admits that Martin Luther King, Jr. convinced her not to quit after the first season of the series. However, her on-screen influence, which ran from 1966 to 1991, reached far beyond the fictional alternate universe. Nichelle Nichols as Uhura in the STAR TREK episode, “Spock’s Brain.” Original airdate,...