Another Late Star Trek Cast Member Is Having Their Remains Shot Into Outer Space

Actor DeForest Kelley was perhaps best known for his portrayal of the character of Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy of the USS Enterprise on Star Trek. Now it seems that like his character, the late actor will be joining his former co-star, Nichelle Nichols in the depths of space.

United Launch Alliance’s rocket, named “Vulcan,” will be launched into space later this year, and carried onboard the rocket, will be a sample of Kelley’s DNA.

Kelley’s close friend and caretaker, Kris Smith revealed to TMZ that she had kept a lock of Kelley’s hair, following his passing away from cancer in 1999. Smith donated the lock of hair to Celestis, so that Kelley could “journey into interstellar space.”

The announcement regarding the Vulcan launch carrying Kelley’s remains, was made on the 56th anniversary of the original Star Trek series’ first episode, popularly known as “Star Trek Day.”

Kelley is not the only member of the Star Trek case to posthumously venture out into the depths of space, as he will be joined by series creator Gene Roddenberry, along with actors James Doohan, and Majel Barrett Roddenberry.

What’s your take on this story? Sound off in the comments!