ENCORE: Adler Astronomer Alleges American Girl Doll Stole Their Likeness

Lucianne Walkowicz is among the most public faces in astronomy today. In between their research at the Adler Planetarium, Walkowicz has given several TED talks on the ethics of Mars exploration, has co-founded an organization that advocates for a more inclusive and ethical future in space, and even had an asteroid named after them.

Again, that is Lucianne Walkowicz.

Luciana Vega, is an 11-year-old interested in going to Space Camp and becoming the first Mars astronaut. More specifically, Luciana is the 2018 American Girl Doll “girl of the year.” The 18 inch doll retails for more than $100 and comes with an optional telescope and starry night accessory pack... for an extra charge.

Now real-life astronomer Lucianne Walkowicz has filed a trademark lawsuit against Mattel and American Girl alleging that the toy-maker stole Walkowicz's likeness for the doll. 

Guest:

Lucianne Walkowicz, TED Senior Fellow and Astronomer at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago

Prepared for web by Zainab Qureshi

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