University of Calgary

Robert Thirsk's ISS Mission

Bob returns to campus

With his record-setting space flight behind him, Canadian Space Agency astronaut Robert Thirsk, BSc'76, LLD'09, returned to campus Feb. 8 to accept the honorary degree he received "virtually" last July via live satellite downlink while aboard the International Space Station. "There's something special about Calgary—the can-do attitude and spirit of exploration—that immediately makes me comfortable and relaxed as soon as I arrive," said Thirsk. More

Bob's Homecoming

Alumnus and celebrated Canadian astronaut Robert Thirsk, BSc’76, LLD’09, safely ended his 189-day mission aboard the International Space Station on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, when he returned via the Soyuz TMA-15 spacecraft to Kazakhstan. The U of C alumni family has proudly followed him every step of the way and we congratulate him at the conclusion of his successful and historic mission.

"Teammates"

Three U of C alumni live out our motto: Mo shùile togam suas. Robert Thirsk, BSc'76, LLD'09, Doug Hamilton, MD'91, PhD'91, and Laura Lucier, BSc'99, star in our latest ad, "Teammates."

Watch the video on U-Now TV


Watch Degree Ceremony

Where's the Space Station?

Ever wondered if you can catch a glimpse of the space station? NASA provides tracking information for the amateur astronomer in all of us. Click here to learn how to find the ISS in the night sky!

Bob's Photo Album

Dr. Thirsk has been gracious enough to send along some photos from his personal collection documenting his incredible journey. We'll keep it updated whenever new pics come in. Check it out!

Bob's first 100 days in space

On the occasion of his 100th day in space, Bob shared with Canadian media and his alumni peers what his experience has been like so far. "I share stories with Aidan, our youngest son, who is a Boy Scout and passionate camper. He currently prefers a hammock in the open air over a sleeping bag. I tell him that a hammock would not work well in a weightless environment, as he would float out of it.." Read more...

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