Can't afford to fly to Vegas this August? Paramount and Viacom have found a way for you and your wallet to still join in.

Viacom Consumer Productions announced the first virtual Star Trek convention to be held over August 2-4 in conjunction with Creation Entertainment's live convention in Las Vegas. Produced by Virtual Communications, llc, and using 3D software from Blaxxon Interactive, Vir-Con 2002 can host as many as 100,000 online visitors. Dressing up virtually as a Starfleet officers or Trek aliens, visitors can chat with other attendees, partake in online shopping and other activities, and visit the Grand Ballroom to view a live video-feed of the stars in Las Vegas.

"We couldn't be more excited to see the Star Trek convention content brought to the fans of the world," stated Pam Newton, Vice-President of marketing and licensing for Viacom Consumer Products. "The virtual Star Trek convention will provide fans who can't attend the convention in person an opportunity to participate online."

Ticket prices have yet to be posted but day and weekend passes will be available, as well as simply purchasing just the live video-feed. Special perks include live chats with the actors and better seating will also be for sale.

W. Vito Montone, chairman of Virtual Communications, llc, said the Lobby portion of the web site would be open to fans in June. "It'll be a chance to chat with people, have some fun, and practice your virtual reality skills in advance."

"Star Trek is one of the most powerful science-fiction franchises of all time and has one of the largest, most active technology-savvy online communities," Monotone added. "It's an honor and a pleasure to push the envelope with them!"

More information can be found at StarTrek.com.