Patch STS-085

A Viking ship, a space shuttle and a dragon highlight this flight patch for Canadian Space Agency (CSA) Astronaut Bjarni Tryggvason, who was on board Space Shuttle Discovery during Mission STS-85.

Discovery is the theme for this emblem. As payload specialist, Bjarni's first priority was to test Canadian scientific hardware and techniques that could enhance the success of the International Space Station (ISS) (ISS), the world's foremost microgravity laboratory for fluid physics and material science. The Microgravity Vibration Isolation Mount (MIM) is one such technology that let scientists explore the behaviour of materials and fluids in near-perfect weightlessness and that was later adapted for use on the ISS.

The desire to explore is an ancient reflex that in modern times is expressed through our space flights. The Viking ship with shuttle prow and Canadian maple 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.

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