10 Star Trek: TNG Facts You Probably Didn't Know

Geordi La Forge was Chief Engineering Officer. Born blind, Geordi wears a VISOR which lets him see across the electromagnetic spectrum. In Encounter at Farpoint, viewers learn that the VISOR can be painful for Geordi because of how it conflicts with his natural senses. The reality for actor LeVar Burton wasn't too far off from that of the character he played.

The VISOR prop was initially conceived by Michael Okuda who was inspired by a banana hair clip. The distinctive teeth of the popular hair accessory inspired the shape and pattern of the rods of the VISOR. The tiny gaps between rods made it very difficult for Burton to see.

When practicing before filming, Burton would wear sunglasses to give the feeling of Geordi's costume, while still allowing the actor to move around freely. During filming Burton often found himself bumping into tables and tripping over cords due to the VISOR that was supposed to be giving the character sight.

After the first season the VISOR was re-designed, but it didn't make things easier for Burton. The VISOR was made to be heavier, and was designed to screw into Burton's temples. This kept it secure but also caused terrible headaches. In describing the experience of acting with the VISOR Burton said, "It's pretty much a living hell."