On July 8, the Canadian Space Agency astronaut Robert Thirsk will become the first person ever to receive an Honorary degree in space. University of Calgary Chancellor, Joanne Cuthbertson will bestow the precious diploma via downlink between the International Space Station and the University. Media representatives are invited to witness this event.

Time of event may change without advance notice. Please call the CSA Media Relations Office to confirm the most up-to-date details.

Journalists who cannot be on site will be able to watch the event live on NASA TV.

WHEN: July 8, 2009

TIME: 11 a.m. MDT

WHAT: Honorary degree ceremony in space

WHO: Robert Thirsk, CSA Astronaut

WHERE: University of Calgary
Eckhardt-Gramatte Concert Hall
Rosza Centre

To schedule interviews with CSA spokespersons, please contact CSA Media Relations at 450-926-4370.

For details on the mission, visit the Canadian Space Agency website at

www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/missions/expedition20-21/.

Videos, animations and pictures are available at this address:

ftp://ftp.asc-csa.gc.ca/users/expedition20-21/pub/