Chris Hadfield

Chris Hadfield (August 29, 1959) is a retired Canadian astronaut, engineer, and former Air Force fighter pilot. He was the first Canadian to walk in space and, during his mission on the International Space Station (ISS), he gained popularity for his efforts to educate the public about space exploration.

Early life and education

Hadfield was born in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. He was raised on a corn farm in southern Ontario and became interested in flying at a young age. He earned his glider pilot license at the age of 15, before he could even drive a car. He later studied at the Royal Military College of Canada, where he received a bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering.

Career

Hadfield joined the Canadian Armed Forces and served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force. He flew various types of aircraft and eventually became a test pilot, one of the most dangerous types of flying due to the experimental nature of the aircraft being flown.

In 1992, Hadfield was selected by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to become one of four new astronauts. He first flew in space aboard STS-74, a Space Shuttle Atlantis mission, in 1995. During this mission, he visited the Russian space station Mir.

In 2001, Hadfield flew again on STS-100, a mission of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. During this mission, he performed two spacewalks, becoming the first Canadian to walk in space.

In 2012, Hadfield flew for a third time aboard the Russian Soyuz spacecraft for a long-duration stay on the ISS as part of Expedition 35. He served as the commander of the ISS, another first for a Canadian astronaut.

Public outreach

During his time on the ISS, Hadfield made efforts to educate the public about space and life aboard the space station. He used social media platforms, particularly Twitter, to share photos and experiences from space. He also recorded a cover of David Bowie's "Space Oddity," which became a viral sensation.

Retirement

Hadfield announced his retirement in 2013, returning to civilian life after a distinguished career in space exploration. He has since become a popular public speaker, author, and advocate for science education.

See also

• List of astronauts by year of selection
• Canadian Space Agency
• International Space Station