I had the incredible opportunity to design a 3.5-inch by 3.5-inch patch for the Student Spaceflight Experiment Program (SSEP), an initiative that is sending a Maryland student's experiment on microgravity to be tested aboard the International Space Station. My design aims to capture the essence of microgravity by depicting an astronaut floating in space, symbolizing the zero-gravity environment. The design also proudly represents Maryland—featuring the state flag on the astronaut's suit and the state's iconic flower, the black-eyed Susan, held gently in the astronaut's hand.

After going through several rounds of judging, I am thrilled to share that my design was selected to represent SSEP Mission 16. It will be sent into space aboard the International Space Station, marking a historic moment for both the program and my design.

This experience has been a dream come true, combining my passion for design, space exploration, and representing Maryland’s unique identity in such a meaningful way. It’s an honor to have my artwork play a small part in such an exciting scientific mission!