I've been thinking that if I ever make something cool I might want to use public domain images/writings/etc. rather than having to create everything from scratch. Then I thought, Eric, that you might be able to use some Mars pics from NASA to spruce things up here. This is what I found:
http://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-definitions.htmlWhere is the public domain?
The public domain is not a place. A work of authorship is in the “public domain” if it is no longer under copyright protection or if it failed to meet the requirements for copyright protection. Works in the public domain may be used freely without the permission of the former copyright owner.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/formedia/features/MP_Photo_Guidelines.htmlUsing NASA Imagery and Linking to NASA Web Sites
10.13.05
Still Images, Audio Files and Video
NASA still images, audio files and video generally are not copyrighted. You may use NASA imagery, video and audio material for educational or informational purposes, including photo collections, textbooks, public exhibits and Internet Web pages. This general permission extends to personal Web pages.
This general permission does not extend to use of the NASA insignia logo (the blue "meatball" insignia), the retired NASA logotype (the red "worm" logo) and the NASA seal. These images may not be used by persons who are not NASA employees or on products (including Web pages) that are not NASA sponsored.
If the NASA material is to be used for commercial purposes, especially including advertisements, it must not explicitly or implicitly convey NASA's endorsement of commercial goods or services. If a NASA image includes an identifiable person, using the image for commercial purposes may infringe that person's right of privacy or publicity, and permission should be obtained from the person. Any questions regarding application of any NASA image or emblem should be directed to:
Photo Department
NASA Headquarters
300 E St. SW
Washington, DC 20546
Tel: (202)358-1900
Fax: (202)358-4333
So, it seems like you should be able to use the images, except for their logo, as long as you don't imply that NASA endorses your site. Find some pics, find some writings, call to double-check that it's kosher and toss it in the game.
Here's some good stuff:
http://marsrovers.nasa.gov/home/http://mpfwww.jpl.nasa.gov/mgs/
