The remains of James Doohan, an actor best known for playing chief engineer Scotty on Star Trek, will be shot into space this October. He died one year ago at age 85.

Space Services, a Houston-based company, was supposed to put the ashes into orbit last year but pushed back the flight to allow more tests on the rocket.

Reuters reports that Space Services spokeswoman Susan Schonfeld confirmed the new October launch date.

Doohan’s remains will be sent into space for a short flight, along with the ashes of about 100 other people. The capsules will then return to earth. Another flight in December or January will launch Doohan’s ashes into orbit for a period of several years.

“Whatever goes up must come down,” said Schonfeld, explaining that the capsule will someday fall out of orbit, burning up in Earth’s atmosphere.

A service for fans will be put on by Doohan’s family on the day of the October launch. Thousands are expected to attend, with many in Star Trek costumes.






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