The Explorers Flight mission logo’s foundation rests on the back of an angel’s butterfly wings, symbolizing flight and rebirth. The center section shows a launch over Earth’s horizon, culminating in the astronaut symbol representing Mercury 7 astronaut Gordon Cooper, an Explorers Flight participant. The overall shape is reminiscent of, but not identical to, the Star Trek Fleet Insignia in honor of participant and beloved actor James “Scotty” Doohan. The 12 stars represent the nations with participants aboard this flight.
The Explorers Flight logo was created by well-known designer and illustrator Eric Gignac. Eric’s portfolio also includes co-design of NASA Space Shuttle mission patches for the STS 128 and 133 missions.
Every Celestis mission has its own logo, mission patch and lapel pin following the tradition of creating a unique identity for each launch dating to the earliest days of the American space program.
This is a Cloisonne lapel pin of exceptional quality and detail. This type of lapel pin takes two bronze die-cut molds, one of the outline of the pin and a second of any cutouts, to create a product rich in style and detail. Each color is individually hand-filled with a powdered glass-like substance and fired at 1600 degrees Fahrenheit. This process helps the colors to hold fast and prevents them from bleeding or smudging. Size: 1.75 x 0.75 inches, secured with a butterfly/military clutch.