Astronomer files trademark lawsuit against American Girl

A Chicago astronomer is suing the maker of American Girl dolls, alleging the Wisconsin company stole her likeness and name to create its astronaut doll.

The Wisconsin State Journal reports that Lucianne Walkowicz' lawsuit asks American Girl and its parent, Mattel, to stop selling the Luciana Vega doll, described as "an aspiring astronaut ready to take the next giant leap to Mars."

Walkowicz worked for NASA and lectures on Mars exploration.

The lawsuit notes the doll has a purple streak in her hair and wears holographic shoes, just as Walkowicz does.

American Girl says it will "defend the case vigorously."

American Girl introduces its new 2018 Girl of the Year, Luciana Vega, a creative, confident 11-year-old who wants to be the first person on Mars. Luciana launches on January 1.