According to my research, the official meaning of NCC 1701, the iconic registration number of the USS Enterprise in Star Trek, is subject to some debate. However, two authoritative sources shed some light on the matter.
Firstly, “The Making of Star Trek”, a book written by Stephen E. Whitfield and Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek, suggests that NCC stands for “Navy-Curtis Craft”. The book explains that the Navy-Curtis connection refers to the collaboration between the United States Navy and Curtis Industries in the design and construction of the starship cruisers.
Secondly, the second season writers guide update for Star Trek provides a similar explanation, reiterating that NCC does indeed stand for “Navy-Curtis Craft”. This confirms the earlier explanation and solidifies the connection between the Navy and Curtis Industries in the creation of the starship.
It’s worth noting that “The Making of Star Trek” was published in 1968, while the second season writers guide update is from around the same time. These sources provide insights into the initial intentions and explanations behind the NCC designation.
However, it’s important to mention that over the years, various other interpretations and meanings have emerged within the Star Trek fan community. These alternative explanations include “Naval Construction Contract” and “Nationality Construction Code,” among others. These alternative interpretations have gained popularity, but they do not have the same level of official confirmation as the “Navy-Curtis Craft” explanation.
While the exact meaning of NCC 1701 may still be a topic of discussion among Star Trek enthusiasts, the official sources, “The Making of Star Trek” and the second season writers guide update, point to it standing for “Navy-Curtis Craft,” highlighting the collaboration between the United States Navy and Curtis Industries in the creation of the starship cruisers.