Of Capt Kirk and final frontiers

Elated: Shatner speaking to the press on Wednesday after returning to Earth — he called his brief foray into outer space the most profound experience of his life. (Inset) Shatner’s turn as Capt James T. Kirk on TV’s Star Trek made him one of the biggest sci-fi stars. — AFP/Paramount Pictures

WILLIAM Shatner was at a loss for words.

It was an uncharacteristic state of affairs for the loquacious 90-year-old American actor, recording artist and TV pitchman – although, you have to cut him some slack. He had just been rocketed more than 100km into the sky and then, with his three Blue Origin spacecraft companions, touched down gently in Texas. It took his breath away. For a little while.