Atari and have confirmed today that the beta test for Online will go 'open' in 2010.

The open test will run from January 12th to the 26th, the developer keen to push their new to the limit.

Keys to the beta will be dished out on a first come, first serve basis, via Cryptic's official site.

"We are excited to announce the dates for the open beta phase as this is one of the final steps in launching Star Trek Online to the public," offers executive producer Craig Zinkievich.

"We are looking forward to the launch of our first-of-a-kind MMORPG with anticipation and excitement and we expect Star Trek Online to explode onto the scene, giving fans and gamers a Star Trek experience like no other."

By Luke Guttridge