The USS Tanasi is a proud chapter of STARFLEET International, serving fans throughout East Tennessee and beyond. As a primarily correspondence and virtual chapter, we make it easy for members to stay connected regardless of location, schedule, or level of involvement. While in-person activities are always optional, we encourage members to participate in our watch parties, monthly virtual meetings, and ongoing conversations across our digital platforms. These gatherings provide a relaxed and enjoyable way to meet fellow fans, exchange ideas, and celebrate the enduring legacy of Star Trek. In addition to our online activities, the USS Tanasi hosts in-person “Away Missions” every few months. These casual events may include museum visits, group meals, movie outings, picnics, and other opportunities to explore, socialize, and enjoy time together. Participation is never required, but these gatherings are always a great opportunity to strengthen friendships and create lasting memories. We are continually looking for new ways to bring our crew together, including online gaming nights, collaborative events with other chapters, and hybrid meetings that connect our virtual and in-person communities. The history of the USS Tanasi reaches back to the early 1990s, when the chapter first began operations as Shuttle LeConte. In 1994, we were officially commissioned as the USS LeConte, and in 1995 we proudly hosted the first-ever STARFLEET Regional Summit in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, welcoming more than 150 members from across multiple regions. Over the years, our chapter has changed names—from the USS LeConte to Bennu Station, and ultimately to the USS Tanasi—but our commitment to community, friendship, and the values represented by Star Trek has remained constant. Throughout our history, our members have worked to make a positive impact through local service and outreach. The chapter has supported food drives benefiting local food banks and animal shelters, participated in movie premieres, marched in Christmas and Fourth of July parades with the now-decommissioned Shuttle Tanasi, and served as judges for county school science fairs. For several years, members also met twice weekly to collect day-old baked goods from a local supermarket and deliver them to the Children’s Home in Sevierville, Tennessee. Today, the USS Tanasi’s crew includes approximately 30 members from Knox, Cocke, Sevier, Monroe, and Grainger counties, as well as members from beyond East Tennessee. Whether you are a lifelong Star Trek fan or simply looking for a welcoming community of like-minded people, the USS Tanasi invites you to join our continuing mission of friendship, exploration, and fun.