Cape Canaveral, Florida – NASA engineers have completed the application of the final clear coat over the iconic “worm” logo on the rocket boosters of the Artemis II mission, marking a nostalgic return to the emblematic red letters that symbolize the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The revival of the worm logo, originally introduced in the 1970s by designer Richard Danne, brings a retro charm to the upcoming lunar mission that will send humans back to the moon for the first time in over 50 years.
Scheduled for 2025, the Artemis II mission will put humans back into lunar orbit, followed by the Artemis III mission, which aims to land humans on the lunar surface no earlier than 2026. The worm logo, known for its modernist design and simplicity, has been hailed as one of the most recognizable logos in history, embodying mankind’s aspirations for interplanetary exploration.
The reintroduction of the worm logo on the SLS rocket boosters and Orion spacecraft’s crew module adapter for the Artemis II mission is a result of collaborative efforts between NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and prime contractor Jacobs. The meticulous process involved using a laser projector to outline the logo with tape before applying coats of paint and clear primer, with each letter of the logo measuring approximately 6 feet and 10 inches in height.
Replacing the original “meatball” logo, the worm logo’s resurgence underscores NASA’s dedication to updating its visual identity to align with the agency’s forward-looking mission. The history of the logo traces back to the US Federal Design Improvement Program initiated by President Richard Nixon, which led to the creation of a clean and progressive emblem that symbolizes NASA’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
As the worm logo prepares to journey back to space and guide humanity’s return to the moon, its revival serves as a fitting tribute to the visionary efforts that have shaped NASA’s iconic branding over the decades. The blend of art and science in the logo’s design reflects the agency’s ongoing commitment to innovation and exploration as it embarks on the next chapter of space exploration.