Expedition 30 marks the International Space Station's (ISS) 30th long duration mission.
Expedition 30 begins with Soyuz TMA-02M undocking in November 2011. Three new crew members arrive shortly thereafter with Soyuz TMA-03M.
[list][*]NASA astronauts Dan Burbank, commander; and Don Pettit
[*]Roscosmos cosmonauts Anton Shkaplerov, Anatoly Ivanishin and Oleg Kononenko
[*]European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut André Kuipers[/list] [b]Expedition 30 mission patch[/b]
The International Space Station program is completing the transition from assembly to full utilization as humankind celebrates the golden anniversary of human space exploration.
In recognition of these milestones and especially of the contributions of those whose dedication and ingenuity make spaceflight possible, a fully assembled ISS is depicted rising above a sunlit earth limb. Eastward of the sunlit limb, the distinctive portrayal of the earth's surface illuminated by nighttime city lights is a reminder of mankind's presence on the planet, most readily apparent from space only by night, and commemorates how humans have transcended their earthly bonds throughout the preceding 50 years of space exploration.
The ISS, a unique space-based outpost for research in biological, physical, space and earth sciences, is an impressive testament to the tremendous teamwork of the engineers, scientists and technicians from 14 countries and five national space agencies.
The six crewmembers of Expedition 30, like those who have gone before them, are honored to represent their countries and the international ISS team in conducting research aboard the ISS and adding to the body of knowledge that will enable the world's space faring countries to more safely and more productively live, work and explore outer space, paving the way for future missions beyond low earth orbit, and inspiring young people to join in this great adventure.
[i]The patch was designed by Tim Gagnon and Jorge Cartes working with Expedition 30 commander Dan Burbank.[/i][/B][/QUOTE]