Final answer:
The 'Star Trek effect' reflects how science fiction, like Star Trek, shapes public expectations regarding the discovery and exploration of space, potentially making real-world astronomical discoveries seem less surprising to the general public.
Step-by-step explanation:
The “Star Trek effect” refers to a phenomenon where science fiction, specifically series like Star Trek, has influenced public perception and expectations about space exploration and the discovery of extraterrestrial planets. This effect suggests that due to the prevalence of intergalactic travel and planet discoveries in sci-fi narratives, the public might be less surprised or excited about actual astronomical discoveries, as they have been 'conditioned' to consider such events as almost routine. The term can also relate to how science fiction can serve as both a primer and a motivational tool, fostering interest in space and scientific endeavors, as well as introducing complex concepts in a more accessible manner.
This effect is a reflection of a broader “selection effect,” a concept in scientific observation where the methodology used influences the types of discoveries that are made. Just as the Doppler technique initially selected massive planets close to their stars as the most likely discoveries, science fiction has “selected” certain narratives about space that shape public expectations. Furthermore, the technological advancements of the time influence the production of science fiction, such as the notable differences in special effects between the original Star Trek series and the more recent movies starring Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, and Zoe Saldana.