NASA logo

'Most travelled symbol in universe': NASA's original logo celebrates its 65th birthday today

Produced by: Tarun Mishra

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Iconic Insignia Anniversary

NASA's "meatball" logo, designed by James Modarelli, turned 65 on July 15, 2024. This logo has been a symbol of the agency since its inception in 1959.

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Design Elements

The logo consists of a circle symbolizing space, a supersonic wing for aeronautics, and a spacecraft in orbit. "NASA" is prominently displayed across the centre.

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Historical Use

Since its creation, the "meatball" has been featured on spacesuits, t-shirts, and even large-scale buildings. It has traveled to the moon and Mars, becoming one of the most recognized logos globally.

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Early Appearances

One of the first public appearances of the logo was during the April 1959 press conference introducing the Mercury 7 astronauts. The hand-painted sign had some variations from the finalized design.

Transition to the 'Worm'

In 1974, NASA replaced the "meatball" with a sleek logotype known as the "worm" as part of a modernization effort. However, the "meatball" continued to be used within the agency.

Return of the 'Meatball'

In 1992, NASA Administrator Dan Goldin reinstated the "meatball" as the official logo to revitalize excitement among the workforce. It was added to the space shuttle orbiters and the International Space Station's "Destiny" lab.

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Public Adoption

The "meatball" logo has been widely adopted by the public, appearing in Hollywood films, on merchandise, and as part of Lego sets. It remains a popular symbol associated with NASA's achievements.

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Joint Use with the 'Worm'

Today, both the "meatball" and the "worm" logos are used by NASA. They will be featured in future missions, including the Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon and eventually send them to Mars.

Credit: SpaceX

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Legacy and Impact

The "meatball" logo continues to symbolize NASA's legacy and mission. It remains a testament to the agency's history and its ongoing contributions to space exploration and aeronautics.