Introduction

On January 25, 2025, former NASA astronaut Nicole Stott, renowned for her groundbreaking use of watercolors in space, is making headlines once again. With a mission rooted in the healing power of art and environmental advocacy, Stott has inspired a limited-edition collectible patch aimed at uplifting pediatric cancer patients and fostering interest in STEM fields among Native American girls.

Art and Advocacy in Space

After her time aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Stott returned with more than just memories; she brought a passion for protecting our planet and a vision to empower young minds through creativity. This vision has led to the creation of a collaborative global art project that invites young cancer patients to express themselves through painting, resulting in uniquely designed squares of fabric that become part of full astronaut suits.

Recognition and Fundraising

In a delightful announcement, the popular Facebook group, Space Hipsters, has named Stott the latest honoree in their “Signature Edition” space patch series. The initiative not only celebrates Stott's illustrious career but also raises funds for Taking Up Space, a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging middle-school-age Native American girls to explore the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through initiatives like trips to Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama.

The Patch Design

The patch crafted for Stott captures the essence of her advocacy and experiences in space. Chris Spain, who spearheaded the patch's production, detailed how it embodies the wonder of space travel, featuring Stott's signature patchwork astronaut design in a breathtaking representation of Earth and the ISS in the backdrop.

Stott's Message

Stott’s message is clear as she aims to instill respect for our “Spaceship Earth.” The patch prominently displays the phrase “Back to Earth — Our Planetary Spaceship” along with the encouraging hashtag “#CrewNotPassengers.” This tagline resonates with themes from her 2021 book, which intertwines her personal space experiences with insights from environmental scientists and activists working to tackle pressing global challenges. Her key message emphasizes that by adopting a crew mentality regarding Earth, we can empower ourselves to become guardians of our home planet.

Patch Editions and Donations

This Signature Edition patch comes in three unique variations: a limited edition of 50 'gold' patches featuring Stott's signature in metallic gold, 100 'silver' patches with silver thread signatures, and an open edition in classic white thread. Each gold and silver edition is paired with a hand-signed numbered display card from Stott. Patches are available for donations ranging from $15 to $75 based on the edition.

Additional Items

Moreover, a vibrant 4-inch vinyl sticker of the open edition patch is also up for grabs at just $3, serving as a perfect complement to any donation. To support this inspiring cause and add a piece of space history to your collection, details on how to donate can be found on the Space Hipsters Facebook group.

Conclusion

As the sixth addition to the Space Hipsters patch series, Stott joins the ranks of other legendary astronauts celebrated previously, including Apollo veteran Fred Haise and shuttle astronauts like Hoot Gibson and Eileen Collins. This endeavor not only honors their contributions but also paves the way for the next generation of explorers and innovators.

Join the movement and be a part of a vibrant and meaningful legacy—who knows, your support might just inspire the next astronaut!