"Star Trek: The Next Generation" introduced the "Star Trek" franchise to a new generation of fans.

"Star Trek: The Next Generation" aired for seven years and featured an ensemble cast. CBS

Original air dates: 1987-1994

While "Star Trek: The Original Series" was responsible for launching the sci-fi franchise in the 1960s, "Star Trek: The Next Generation" introduced the space exploration series to a new generation of fans. It also laid the groundwork for recent "Star Trek" installments like the 2009 "Star Trek" movie and the new CBS All-Access show "Star Trek: Picard."

Like its precursor, "Star Trek: The Next Generation" follows a crew of humans and aliens aboard the spaceship USS Enterprise, as they explore the far reaches of space.