posted 02-02-2011 09:38 AM               

Even if these were copyrighted, it is usually impossible to explain this to people who are producing these fake patches. I found most of them simply do not understand what copyright is to begin with. End of discussion. Complaining with eBay is a very long road, even involving having to FAX them some forms.

I sort of stopped worrying about it, even though it is not a great feeling to have worked on a design for hours and hours, involving a lot of discussions, changes, deadlines and even some risks, and see someone who does not have any obligations to anyone, copy it in just a mouseclick and earning money with it.

posted 02-02-2011 02:11 PM               

As many are probably already familiar, the captions that accompany NASA mission insignia include the following disclaimer:

The NASA insignia design for shuttle and space station 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 form of illustrations by the various news media. When and if there is any change in this policy, which is not anticipated, it will be publicly announced. Photo credit: NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Strict legal regulations govern NASA policy regarding merchandising and advertising requests. Companies interested in producing NASA-related merchandise or commercial advertisements must notify NASA's Public Services Division in writing or by E-mail. Requests should describe the intended use of NASA imagery on the product. If possible, layouts, storyboards etc. of the product or advertisement should be included. When all legal requirements have been met, NASA will send the merchandiser or advertiser an approval letter.

Companies interested in producing NASA-related merchandise have equal access to NASA information. There is no licensing or exclusivity agreement with NASA.