The patch will be available for purchase with all proceeds supporting ISS National Lab-sponsored research to benefit life on Earth through space-based research

Yesterday at the Space Economy Summit, hosted by The Economist, Margaritaville announced the launch of a unique mission patch in support of research sponsored by the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory. This mission patch, inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s enduring commitment to environmental conservation, has been many years in the making and symbolizes a significant step towards advancing space-based research to better understand, evaluate, and improve our planet.

Mission patches have played a major role in engaging the public with the space program. In the past, space agencies have created patches to bring relevancy to specific missions, and mission patches have been popularized in movies and entertainment communities. Now, this represents the first opportunity for a patch to directly contribute to the funding of research on the space station. 

The patch and its likeness, inspired by the iconic Jimmy Buffett, will be available for purchase online, in retail stores, and at Margaritaville destinations. All proceeds will be donated to the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space® (CASIS®), the organization responsible for managing the ISS National Laboratory. This initiative aims to support ongoing research efforts that align with the ISS National Lab mission of benefitting life on Earth through space-based investigations, including evaluation of our planet in ways that may address sustainable and efficient practices for future generations.

Over the years, the ISS National Lab has sponsored a variety of research investigations and technology demonstrations aimed at better understanding our planet – from supporting remote sensing investigations that can leverage the unique vantage point of the space station to projects aimed at advancing cleaning solutions for resource constrained environments on Earth where water is scarce. The space station represents a novel environment to advance investigations that may bring value to humanity in ways not possible on our planet. 

The space station is prominently featured in the patch as it orbits overhead a tropical paradise. In original concepts of the mission patch developed years ago by Buffett, he inserted both daytime and nighttime elements as the station encounters 16 sunrises and sunsets every day. An avid boater and pilot, Buffett felt compelled to incorporate a nautical compass on the mission patch, further entrenching his passions into the design. The Margaritaville team sought to honor Jimmy’s legacy for this project by keeping the initial patch design as close to prior workings as possible. 

“At Margaritaville, we’ve always believed in the importance of protecting the places and experiences that bring people joy,” said Tamara Baldanza-Dekker, Chief Marketing Officer of Margaritaville. “Partnering with the ISS National Lab on this mission patch is an exciting extension of our brand’s commitment to making the world a better place. We’re proud that proceeds from this initiative will help fund innovative research with the potential to shape a more sustainable future for us all.”

“The ISS National Lab is incredibly grateful to Margaritaville for their generous commitment to advancing space-based research through the proceeds of this meaningful mission patch,” said Ray Lugo, Chief Executive Officer of CASIS, manager of the ISS National Lab. “This contribution not only honors the spirit of Margaritaville but also supports groundbreaking R&D onboard the International Space Station that aims to improve life here on Earth. It’s a powerful example of how creative partnerships can help us push the boundaries of science for the benefit of all humanity.” 

To learn more about this collaboration, including how to obtain your own mission patch from Margaritaville in support of the ISS National Lab, please visit margaritavillestore.com/collections/international-space-station.