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 was the first time a Canadian took part in a long duration mission. Robert Thirsk had 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 assumed responsibilities for the maintenance and repair of the ISS, while conducting experiments on behalf of Canadian and international researchers.
He returned to earth in November 2009.
