Lift-off Messages for Bob

I was in your sister's class last year in GCA. She's really nice and we talk a lot. What is training like before going into space? I hope you have fun in the ISS!

- Matt P. (future U of C alum), Calgary

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I'm Matt's sister Hayley, and I also go to GCA. I hope that your trip to outer space will be a safe one, and you'll have fun exploring a section of the universe where so few people get to travel. What made you decide to want to be an astronaut? Also, what do you think it will be like in space, considering that you will experience zero gravity, and what types of training have you previously undergone to prepare for this? Good luck with your mission!

- Hayley P. (future U of C alum), Calgary

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All the best in your exciting upcoming mission. I didn't realize until I saw you in our alumni magazine that we graduated from UofC with BSc's the same year. I was Environmental Biology BScH'76. I heard about your mission on the radio recently and they mentioned something about sending you a photo of somewhere that we like and in return you could send us a space photo. The photo is the view from our place near Fairmont Hot Springs in BC, overlooking Columbia Lake. It's a beautiful, peaceful spot to be [note: the photo exchange is not being organized by the U of C Alumni Association, but we will gladly forward Bob and Rita's photo to Bob Thirsk]. If it is possible to obtain a space photo showing the Columbia Lake area in the Columbia Trench, that would be great (say from Golden to Cranbrook approximately or closer). Thank you for all your courageous contributions.

- Bob (BSc'76, BSc'82) and Rita Walker, Cochrane

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As a Calgarian, doctor and space enthusiast, it is with awe and humility that I send you this lift-off message wishing you all the best on your amazing journey to come. Will be sending you positive thoughts and well wishes for the months to come.

- Karen Breeck; the ex-flight doc for CSA many years ago... : )

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