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Crew Patch

The STS-78 mission linked past with present through a crew patch influenced by Pacific Northwest Native American art. Central to the design is the Space Shuttle Columbia whose shape evokes the image of the eagle, an icon of power and prestige and the national symbol of the United States. The eagle's feathers, representing both peace and friendship, symbolize the spirit of international unity on STS-78. An orbit surrounding the mission number recalls the traditional NASA emblem.

The Life Sciences and Microgravity Spacelab (LMS) is housed in Columbia's payload bay and is depicted in a manner reminiscent of totem art. The pulsating sun, a symbol of life, displays three crystal representing STS-78's three high-temperature microgravity materials processing facilities. The constellation Delphinus recalls the dolphin, friend of sea explorers, each star representing one member of STS-78's international crew including our alternate Payload Specialists: Pedro Duque and Luca Urbani.

The coloured thrust rings at the base of Columbia signify the five continent of Earth united in global cooperation for the advancement of all humankind.

Source: NASA