As humanity prepares to extend its reach beyond low-earth-orbit for the first time since the late 1970's, a new symbol of international cooperation is needed to further promote the message of peace and collaboration such exploration entails. The "space race" that occurred between the Soviet Union and the United States of America is a model not suited for long-term, sustained space exploration. It was too costly and too resource-intensive for a single nation to bear. While competition is healthy for technology development, the success of a sustained space exploration strategy lies beyond technological capabilities. It lies in international cooperation, space policy, and public support. Without these, no program can realistically achieve a sustained presence in space beyond low-earth orbit. To this effect, this paper proposes a cost-effective first step in the addition of a universal symbol which, placed along-side national flags commonly displayed on hardware and astronaut/cosmonaut flight-suits, would send a strong message to the world that space exploration is done for the benefit of humanity as a whole, not just space-faring nations. It is a symbol that does not require political collaboration between countries, yet is a symbol that anyone, anywhere in the world can relate to it, regardless of nationality, ethnic origin or religious beliefs. Astronauts/cosmonauts, or national space-agencies venturing in manned or unmanned vehicles in and beyond low Earth orbit are acting as ambassadors of planet Earth. The "Blue Marble", the first complete picture of Earth taken from space by humans in 1972, fits this universally appealing symbol. Placed on the shoulder pads of astronauts/cosmonauts, or prominently displayed on space-bound hardware would send a universal message that at least in space, our planet is working together for the benefits of everyone. What a message for the younger generation growing up in a global society torn by conflict.
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