STS-28/51J – OFFICIAL CREW INSIGNIA

S85-39862 (1 Sept. 1985) --- The 51-J mission insignia, designed by Atlantis's first crew, pays tribute to the Statue of Liberty and the ideas it symbolizes. The historical gateway figure bears additional significance for astronauts Karol J. Bobko, mission commander; and Ronald J. Grabe, pilot, both New York natives. Other members of the five-man crew, whose surnames encircle the artwork, are Robert L. Stewart and David C. Hilmers, mission specialists; and William A. Pailes, payload specialist. The NASA insignia design for space shuttle flights 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. Photo credit: NASA