Time travel

Time travel is a form of passage through the spacetime continuum, by moving to different points or destinations, "backward" or "forward", via a "fourth dimension" (time), often while simultaneously moving through space. Time travel is also possible between parallel universes. (ENT: "In A Mirror, Darkly")

Temporal displacement is another term referring to time travel.

Because of the risks inherent to altering the outcome of historical events, via figures from one era interacting with another (usually the past), time travel is closely monitored, regulated and discouraged. In the Federation, the Department of Temporal Investigations is charged with this task.

Despite the risks, time travel is a fairly common occurrence. Individuals and starships, in the Federation and elsewhere, have made many trips through time. Crew-members on Starfleet vessels, most notably the starships Enterprise, have interacted repeatedly with figures and events in other temporal eras.

Related topics

 * Alternate timeline
 * Parallel universe