What do early Star Trek episodes have to say about race? Is post-apocalyptic literature about the dangers of technology mere entertainment, or a harbinger of things to come? This entertaining, enlightening collection brings together scholars and science fiction writers to discuss these questions and more. The essays examine how science fiction informs and inspires scientific research while breakthroughs in modern science spur authors on to more cutting-edge and exhilarating narratives. The invigorating technological discussions are highly informative, yet accessible to all readers.