USS Grissom (NCC-638)

The USS Grissom (NCC-638) was an Oberth-class Federation starship in service in the 23rd century.

In 2270, the Grissom was a newly-launched vessel, and Captain James T. Kirk recommended that Commander Spock be assigned as the ship's captain. However, Spock decided to decline the offer in favour of accepting a teaching post at the Vulcan Science Academy. (TOS novel: The Lost Years).

By 2285, the Grissom was under the command of Captain J.T. Esteban, and was assigned to survey the newly-formed Genesis Planet. After dispatching Lieutenant Saavik and David Marcus to the surface, the Grissom was destroyed by a Klingon Bird-of-Prey commanded by Commander Kruge. (TOS movie/novelization: Star Trek III: The Search for Spock).