Today in Nerd History | September 28

September 28 is a prime example of just how far nerd culture can reach—from boldly going where no one has gone before, to video game worlds filled with elemental magic, to satire, spaceflight, and ridiculously good-looking male models. Let’s hit warp speed through this incredibly diverse day in nerd history!

Inclusion on this list does not imply that the entry is family friendly, only that it was a nerd culture milestone. Parents should, of course, use discernment.

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” (TNG), created by Gene Roddenberry, premiered on September 28, 1987. Set nearly 100 years after the original series, TNG follows the adventures of the starship USS Enterprise-D and its crew, led by Captain Jean-Luc Picard.

Nerdy Facts:

• A New Era: TNG introduced a new generation of fans to the Star Trek universe and is credited with revitalizing the franchise. The show’s success led to multiple spin-offs, films, and a continued legacy in the Star Trek universe.
• Iconic Characters: The series introduced iconic characters such as Captain Picard (played by Patrick Stewart), Data, Worf, and Geordi La Forge. These characters have become staples of the Star Trek mythos, with Picard’s leadership style often hailed as one of the best in TV history.
• Cultural Impact: TNG addressed complex social, ethical, and philosophical issues, often reflecting real-world concerns. The show’s influence extended beyond entertainment, inspiring advancements in technology and fostering a sense of optimism about the future.

“Zoolander,” a comedy film directed by and starring Ben Stiller, was released in theaters on September 28, 2001. The movie is a satire of the fashion industry, following the dimwitted but lovable male model Derek Zoolander as he uncovers a conspiracy involving brainwashing and assassination.

Nerdy Facts:

• Cult Classic: Despite a modest box office performance, “Zoolander” became a cult classic, known for its absurd humor, quotable lines, and memorable characters like Hansel (played by Owen Wilson) and Mugatu (played by Will Ferrell).
• Blue Steel: The film introduced the world to Derek Zoolander’s signature modeling look, “Blue Steel,” which became an instantly recognizable part of pop culture and a go-to reference for striking a pose.
• Enduring Appeal: “Zoolander” has remained popular over the years, leading to a sequel, “Zoolander 2,” in 2016. The film’s satirical take on the fashion world and celebrity culture continues to resonate with audiences.

On September 28, 2008, SpaceX made history with the successful launch of Falcon 1, the first privately developed liquid-fueled rocket to reach orbit. This achievement marked a significant milestone in the commercialization of space exploration and set the stage for SpaceX’s future successes.

Nerdy Facts:

• Persistence Pays Off: The successful launch of Falcon 1 came after three failed attempts. This fourth launch demonstrated SpaceX’s resilience and marked a turning point for the company, proving that private companies could achieve spaceflight milestones traditionally dominated by government agencies.
• Space Revolution: The success of Falcon 1 paved the way for SpaceX’s future projects, including the Falcon 9 and Dragon spacecraft. SpaceX’s advancements have significantly reduced the cost of space travel and have played a key role in the burgeoning space tourism and exploration industries.
• Elon Musk’s Vision: SpaceX founder Elon Musk has often cited the success of Falcon 1 as one of the most critical moments in the company’s history, validating his vision of making space exploration more accessible and eventually enabling human life on other planets.

This game show for pedantic nerds launched on Dropout, CollegeHumor’s streaming service. Hosted by Mike Trapp, it invites guests to correct “technically wrong” nerdy statements in true know-it-all fashion—with the phrase “Um, actually…”

Nerdy Facts:

• The format requires players to start corrections with “Um, actually…” or risk losing points—even if their answers are right.
• Topics range from D&D lore and anime to sci-fi minutiae and comic book trivia.
• Its niche appeal and clever writing helped build a devoted community of trivia-loving nerds.​

“Genshin Impact,” an open-world action RPG developed by miHoYo, was released on September 28, 2020, for PlayStation 4 and PC. The game quickly became a global sensation, known for its expansive world, gacha mechanics, and cross-platform play.

Nerdy Facts:

• Global Phenomenon: “Genshin Impact” became one of the most successful game launches of 2020, earning over $100 million in its first two weeks. Its success was fueled by its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and free-to-play model with in-game purchases.
• Diverse World: The game features the fantasy world of Teyvat, where players can explore different regions inspired by real-world cultures. Each region has its own unique aesthetic, characters, and storyline, adding depth and variety to the game.
• Cross-Platform Play: “Genshin Impact” supports cross-platform play, allowing players on different devices to team up and explore the world together. This feature, combined with regular content updates, has helped maintain the game’s popularity and player engagement.

And there you have it—September 28! Whether you’re piloting a starship, modeling ridiculously well, correcting fantasy trivia, or soaring to literal orbit, this day is a celebration of imagination, exploration, and total nerdiness. Whatever your fandom, there’s something on this list to boldly love. Happy Nerd History Day!