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Canadian Patch

A Viking ship, a space shuttle and a dragon highlight this flight patch for the seventh mission of a Canadian Space Agency astronaut, Bjarni Trygvasson, on board the space shuttle Discovery on mission STS-85.

The patch was designed by Canadian artist Warren Oddsson with assistance from Paul Fjeld.

Discovery is the theme for this emblem. As payload specialist, Bjarni’s first priority is developing Canadian scientific techniques that will significantly enhance the success of the International Space Station, the world’s next outpost in space, as a fluid physics and materials science platform. The Microgravity Vibration Isolation Mount, MIM, is one such technology that will let scientists explore the behaviour of materials and fluids in near perfect weightlessness.

Exploring, which we now express in our space flights is an ancient reflex. The Viking ship with shuttle prow and Canada leaf sail, celebrates the discovery of Bjarni’s adopted land by his Icelandic forefathers. The seven stars, one for each Canadian flight, lead to the Space Station in the distance. The lurking dragon-shape embedded in the heavens evokes a Norse representation of the dangers of the unknown. With courage, we are beginning to explore this great ocean of mystery beyond Earth.