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Expedition 20/21

In 2008, Dr. Thirsk was assigned to the crew of Expedition 20/21. This Expedition represents a milestone for the Canadian Space Program since it will be the first time a Canadian takes part in a long duration mission. Robert Thirsk will have the privilege to expand the boundaries of space exploration by living and working on board the International Space Station for six months. The launch took place on May 27, 2009 aboard a Soyuz rocket from the Cosmodrome in Baikonur, Kazakhstan.

During this long duration mission Dr. Thirsk will assume responsibilities for the maintenance and repair of the ISS, while conducting experiments on behalf of Canadian and international researchers.