Extrasensory perception (commonly abbreviated ESP) is a term generally used in relation to abilities displayed by humans that are beyond the five basic senses. There is a relationship between ESP and telepathy, but the two are not synonymous.
From at least the 23rd century Starfleet has been testing its human personal with standardized tests to measure their perception quotient or "esper rating". (TOS: "Where No Man Has Gone Before")
In the 24th century, extrasensory perception was one ability for which children at Enclave J-12 were tested. Those showing high esper ratings were then trained to augment their abilities. (Star Trek: Pendragon: "Father to the Man")
The El-Aurian ability sense for changes in the spacetime continuum can be considered a form of ESP. (TNG: "Yesterday's Enterprise", Star Trek Generations)
External link[]
- Extrasensory perception article at Memory Alpha, the canon Star Trek wiki.