When you think of an astronaut’s job description, art design may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, the astronaut crews on each mission are in charge of designing their team’s mission patch. Every expedition to the International Space Station (ISS) has a unique patch. Typically the designs feature the crew's names and visual elements that represent the mission.
Unlike other NASA missions, for trips to the ISS astronauts wear two patches as opposed to just one. This is because ISS crews overlap. Astronauts travel to the ISS in groups of three and join a crew of three other astronauts already aboard. These six astronauts form the Expedition, and are represented by a mission patch. About halfway through their time aboard the ISS, half the crew departs. The remaining three are joined by another crew of astronauts, forming a new Expedition and requiring a second patch. For example, NASA astronaut Randy “Komrade” Bresnik wears the Expedition 52 and 53 mission patches.
How would you design your patch if you were headed to space? See the STEM in 30 team’s mission patch, then try making your own!
Subject: History of Spaceflight and the International Space Station | Grade Level: 5-8 | Time: 30-50 Minutes
Related Topics
You may also like
We rely on the generous support of donors, sponsors, members, and other benefactors to share the history and impact of aviation and spaceflight, educate the public, and inspire future generations. With your help, we can continue to preserve and safeguard the world’s most comprehensive collection of artifacts representing the great achievements of flight and space exploration.