Dr. Robert Thirsk live from aboard the ISS

October 29, 2009

Five months into the longest mission in space for a Canadian astronaut, Dr. Robert Thirsk spoke to members of the media via live downlink from the International Space Station (ISS). Dr. Thirsk will have completed a six-month stay aboard the ISS when he returns to Earth in December.

During this mission, Dr. Thirsk is conducting seven experiments on behalf of Canadian and international researchers. One of the experiments is led by University of Waterloo researcher Dr. Richard Hughson and is sponsored by the Canadian Space Agency. The CCISS experiment (for Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Control on Return from the International Space Station) is the first to try to look fully at how astronauts' bodies cope with microgravity in space.
This experiment examines what happens to the cardiovascular system when astronauts spend an extended time in a state of weightlessness, said Dr. Hooley McLaughlin, Director of Visitor Experience. What is especially timely for us here at the Science Centre is that BODY WORLDS & The Story of the Heart opened just over two weeks ago, and it also examines the function of the heart and circulatory system, giving visitors a profound insight into their own bodies.

This downlink is one of many memorable events of the Science Centres 40th anniversary year. After four decades, the Ontario Science Centre continues to spark curiosity and interest, encouraging young people to take on careers in the field of science and to advance technology for the future.

The Science Centres popular space-related experiences -- such as planetarium presentations, the Challenger Learning Center, the Space Hall and free star parties -- demonstrate that Canadians are interested in exploring the universe.

Category:

Science & Technology

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