The new US Space Force logo is gaining traction on social media - but not for the reasons you may think.
People are noticing it bears a striking resemblance to a logo from the 'Star Trek' franchise.
US President Donald Trump unveiled the logo on Friday and said on Twitter he had consulted with military leaders, designers and others.
He tweeted out a picture of the blue-and-white symbol - which shows an arrowhead shape centred on a planetary background.
The symbol is also encircled by the words "United States Space Force" and "Department of the Air Force".
After consultation with our Great Military Leaders, designers, and others, I am pleased to present the new logo for the United States Space Force, the Sixth Branch of our Magnificent Military! pic.twitter.com/TC8pT4yHFT
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 24, 2020
But the new logo immediately gained comparison to the fictional logo for Starfleet Command - and sparked a reaction from fans.
Actor George Takei, who played Mr Sulu in the original 'Star Trek' TV series and films, tweeted: "Ahem. We are expecting some royalties from this."
Ahem. We are expecting some royalties from this... https://t.co/msYcJMlqjh
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) January 24, 2020
Another Twitter user posted a photo of the Starfleet Command logo alongside the new Space Force logo with the words: "The new #SpaceForce logo sure looks familiar..."
The new #SpaceForce logo sure looks familiar... pic.twitter.com/ImpGtjo1Aj
— Ben Warwick (@BenCBS4) January 24, 2020
Referring to 'Star Trek' creator Gene Roddenberry, another tweet read: "I think Gene Roddenberry would approve of the new U.S. Space Force logo".
I think Gene Roddenberry would approve of the new U.S. Space Force logo #SpaceForce #StarTrek pic.twitter.com/3Bhxvx4CWl
— Michael Tatar WTOL (@MichaelTatarTV) January 24, 2020
Space Force is the first new military service since the Air Force was created in 1947.
Its main objective is to improve protection of US satellites and other space assets, rather than to put officers in orbit to conduct combat in outer space.
Originally, Mr Trump wanted a Space Force that was "separate but equal" to the army, navy and air force - but instead the US Congress made it part of the Department of the Air Force.
