Star Trek trailer to play before Star Wars film

Viewers of the upcoming Star Wars film will be getting a preview of another intergalactic space story now that Star Trek has secured coveted trailer time.

Though the next installment of the Star Trek series doesn't hit theaters until July 22, an early teaser will be played to whet audiences' appetites before they settle in to watch "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," says The Hollywood Reporter.

The tie-in comes as little surprise, given that Star Wars director J.J. Abrams also directed the first two Star Trek films.

The director gave up directing duties on the third installment, "Star Trek Beyond," to take up the reins at Star Wars.

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" opens in select markets December 17 and in North America December 18.