STS-37 Atlantis, Orbiter Vehicle (OV) 104, crew insignia

STS037-S-001 (May 1990) --- The principal theme of the STS-37 patch, designed by the astronaut crew members, is the mission's primary payload ? Gamma Ray Observatory (GRO) ? and its relationship to the space shuttle. The shuttle and the GPO are both depicted on the patch and are connected by a large gamma. The gamma symbolizes both the quest for gamma rays by the GRO as well as the importance of the relationship between the manned and unmanned elements of the United States space program. The Earth background shows the southern portion of the United States under a partial cloud cover while the two fields of three and seven stars, respectively, refer to the STS-37 mission designation. The NASA insignia design for space shuttle flights is reserved for use by the astronauts and for other official use as the NASA Administrator may authorize. Public availability has been approved only in the forms of illustrations by the various news media. When and if there is any change in this policy, which is not anticipated, the change will be publicly announced. Photo credit: NASA