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Covering the period from the beginning of the Cold War to the installation of the International Space Station, this book documents a rare collection: almost 250 mission patches worn by Soviet and Russian cosmonauts since 1963. Alexander Glushko, one of the leading specialists in the history of manned space flight and rocket technology in Russia, presents numerous emblems with individual explanations in their applied context: as patches worn on spacesuits. The collection not only comprises partially forgotten mission patches, but also includes rare photographs of spacecraft crews and space stations. As well as providing additional historical information, the collection also retraces the formation and development of Soviet and Russian symbolism in terms of space travel and brings the his tory of cosmic heraldry to life.

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Glushko, Alexander
Alexander Glushko, born in Moscow in 1972. Graduated from the Faculty of Archive-Keeping at the Historical and Archival Institute at the Russian State University for the Humanities. Is one of the leading specialists in the history of piloted space exploration and rocket technology in Russia. Specialist on the history of twentieth-century military uniform and medals. Author of more than 170 publications. Has helped to devise a large number of insignia and awards for various organisations and public associations.

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