Trekkies around the world are still mourning the death of Nichelle Nichols, who was best known for her role in 1960s sci-fi TV series Star Trek.
She broke barriers in her role as Lieutenant Nyota Uhura in the series, becoming one of the first Black actresses in the US to play a figure in authority.
She was later employed by Nasa in an effort to encourage more women and African-Americans to become astronauts.
Her son Kyle Johnson said she died of natural causes. In a statement he wrote: "I regret to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years.
"Her light however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration." Star Trek broke down stereotypes by casting Black and Minority actors in high-profile roles.
Ms Nicholls played Lt Uhura, who was portrayed as a competent and level-headed communications officer – shattering many stereotypes.
In 1968, she and Star Trek star William Shatner, who played Captain Kirk, broke new ground when they shared one of television's first interracial kisses - though it was not a romantic one.
Despite her success, Nichelle had initially considered leaving the show, but was convinced otherwise by Dr Martin Luther King Jr., who described her character as the "first non-stereotypical role portrayed by a Black woman in television history".
She went on to feature in the first six Star Trek movies following the series' end in 1969 and also became an ambassador for the US space agency Nasa, helping to recruit women and minorities to its Space programme.
Following the news of her death, Star Trek co-star George Takei wrote in a tweet: "My heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend."
TV director Adam Nimoy - the son of Star Trek actor Leonard, said: "The importance of Nichelle's legacy cannot be over-emphasised. She was much loved and will be missed."
British actress Adjoa Andoh wrote: "We stand on shoulders of groundbreaking greats. Nichelle Nichols you gave so many of us hope. Thank you."
She was 89.
