STS-36 - OFFICIAL CREW INSIGNIA

S89-20157 (November 1989) --- The dominant theme of the STS-36 patch, designed by the five astronaut crew members, is, in their words "...the essential role that space plays in preserving the blessings of freedom and liberty for America." The crew used the eagle to symbolize "our country's commitment to strength and vigilance; its domain is not bound by the limits of Earth but reaches out to the stars." "The Shuttle," they express, "majestically beginning its journey into orbit, demonstrates how man and machine work together for the security of our nation." A crew spokesman went on to say the flag represents the patriotism and love for America possessed by each member of the five-man crew and signifies the honor accorded them through participation in national defense. 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