Expedition 9 patch

ISS009-S-001 (6 April 2004) --- This emblem represents the Ninth Expedition to the International Space Station (ISS). The Soyuz rocket and letter "X" combine into the Roman numeral IX. The "X" evokes Exploration, which is at the core of the indivisible partnership of the two space pioneering nations. Research aboard ISS will lead to human exploration of the Moon and Mars. This pursuit is strengthened by the common memory of the astronauts and cosmonauts who gave their lives in this valiant endeavor. Their stars form the leading edge of the wings of the eagle spirit that embodies Human Space Flight. The Astronaut symbol is flanked by the Expedition Nine crew names leaning together, with a "9" stylized as the plume of their rocket. The baton of great discovery is passed to the crew of the spaceship advancing to their orbital outpost. The NASA insignia design for shuttle flights and station increments 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.