Just as they did with director J.J. Abrams’ first Star Trek feature film and their series Star Trek: Countdown, IDW Publishing will publish Star Trek: Countdown To Darkness, an official prequel to the upcoming Star Trek Into Darkness.

Written by Mike Johnson with a story by Roberto Orci and art by David Messina, this four-issue miniseries will lead directly into the May release of Star Trek Into Darkness, bridging the gap between the two films and giving fans an exclusive peek at the film’s mysterious story.

“We were thrilled by the reception that the original Countdown prequel comic received in 2009,” said Johnson. “We’re excited to be working again with David Messina and the team at IDW to bring fans an all-new original story that leads directly into the next film. Star Trek is back in a big way in 2013!”

Star Trek: Countdown To Darkness #1 should be in stores in January 2013.