If you’ve ever wondered about the science behind gravity and spacetime in the “Star Trek” series, Spa-Con Infinity at the Hot Springs Convention Center is the place to be from September 20 to 22.  This year’s event features Erin Macdonald, the astrophysicist and science adviser for all “Star Trek” franchises, who will host a panel discussion and interact with fans throughout the convention.

Besides her advisory role, Macdonald has lent her voice to her fictional counterpart, Lt. Cmdr. Erin Macdonald, in “Star Trek: Prodigy” and the video game “Star Trek Online.”  She earned her Ph.D. at the University of Glasgow and conducted research with the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) Scientific Collaboration before their 2017 Nobel Prize-winning discovery of gravitational waves. Through her company, Spacetime Productions, she produces award-winning sci-fi films by LGBTQIA+ creators.

“Having Erin Macdonald at Spa-Con Infinity is incredibly exciting,” special events manager for Visit Hot Springs, Alexis Hampo said. “She’s a huge inspiration for young women interested in space and science. Her panel promises to be entertaining, insightful, and educational, perfectly aligning with Spa-Con’s ideals.”

Macdonald will be present all three days of Spa-Con. She will host the “Spacetime in Star Trek” panel on Saturday, September 21 at 3 p.m., followed by a free photo-op session. Fans can also meet her at a VIP meet-and-greet session just before the panel.

“Whether you’re a Trekkie or not, everyone will gain something from her ‘Spacetime in Star Trek’ panel,” Hampo said. “I first heard her on NPR’s ‘Science Friday’ and knew we had to bring her to Spa-Con. She’ll explain gravity and spacetime through iconic ‘Star Trek’ moments—no prior science knowledge needed.”