Star Trek gets digital makeover

The series has developed a worldwide following

Star Trek fans are being given a chance to see the final frontier as never before with the broadcast of a digitally enhanced version.

All 79 episodes of the original 1960s series have been given a makeover with visuals and sound being updated.

Computer graphics replace model spaceships, backgrounds have been made more realistic and even Kirk's famous introduction has had a digital polish.

The new-look series will be shown in the US this weekend.

John Nogawski, president of CBS Paramount Domestic Television, said: "Nothing really has changed except for the fact that it's just prettier to look at.

More dynamic

"Right down to placement of stars, it is being re-simulated to be exactly what was there in the first place."

The new computer-generated graphics were created with measurements taken from the original model of the craft now on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington.

Visual effects experts said the ship now flew "more dynamically."

The new broadcast is part of events to mark the series' 40th anniversary.