A Weekend with Astronaut Robert Thirsk
Space Science and Exploration
Odem’s World Foundation and UCalgary’s Faculty of Science have partnered to bring you a weekend of three exciting opportunities to learn all about space science and exploration, including real life experiences, all featuring special guest Dr. Robert Thirsk. Events include an evening Tzavta Salon with an in-depth discussion, Found in Space, a TEDx-style talk with hands-on activities, and a family-friendly Hot Chocolate with a Marshmallow launch event.
Found in Space
Dec. 13, 2025 | 1:30PM to 3:30PM | EEEL Building
This event brings together astronaut and UCalgary alumnus Dr. Robert Thirsk and space scientist Dr. Emma Spanswick for a series of TEDx-style talks that will spark your curiosity and ignite your imagination.
After the talks, the adventure continues! Step into a world of discovery and interactive exhibits and hands-on space activities that bring the cosmos to life.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST! WE ARE CURRENTLY AT REGISTRATION CAPACITY - IF MORE SPOTS BECOME AVAILABLE WE WILL RE-OPEN REGISTRATION.
Found in Space: Space Talks
Dec. 13, 2025 | Doors open at 1:30 p.m., Talk at 2:00 p.m. | EEEL Building
WE ARE CURRENTLY AT REGISTRATION CAPACITY - IF MORE SPOTS BECOME AVAILABLE WE WILL RE-OPEN REGISTRATION.
Join astronaut and UCalgary alumnus Dr. Robert Thirsk and space scientist Dr. Emma Spanswick for a free, one-of-a-kind event exploring how space connects to life here on terra firma. From living and working in orbit to tracking solar storms and monitoring Canada’s North, Dr. Thirsk and Dr. Spanswick share stories and insights that reveal how discoveries made above shape our world below.
What’s it like to live in space? How does “space weather” influence life on Earth? And how is space science helping build a stronger future in the North? This event dives into it all — and more. Explore interactive booths and hands-on exhibits showcasing UCalgary’s cutting-edge space research. Meet the scientists pushing boundaries and see how the Faculty of Science is shaping the future of space exploration and discovery.
Found in Space: Exhibits and Activities
Dec. 13, 2025 | Activities at 1:30pm-2pm and 2:45pm-3:30pm | EEEL Building
Space is within reach! Get hands-on with space-themed activities and exhibits that bring the cosmos down to Earth. What does a satellite look like up close? What does the surface of a far-off planet really look like? Can you tell the difference between a meteorite and a rock from your backyard? Discover, touch, and experience the science that’s helping us understand — and reach — beyond our planet.
Outer space is infinite. Event space is limited. This event is designed for audiences ages 8 and up.
Other Opportunities
Tzavta Salon: “Ethics of Space Exploration”
Friday, Dec. 12
Presented in partnership with Odem’s World Foundation, this intimate event is part of Park by Sidewalk Citizen’s Tzavta Salon series. Join Dr. Robert Thirsk and Dr. Emma Spanswick for dinner and a thoughtful conversation about the ethics of space exploration. This is a unique opportunity to hear about space exploration from true explorers.
Hot Chocolate with a Marshmallow
Sunday, Dec. 14
Park by Sidewalk Citizen is famous for Chardonnay with a Cube of Ice — which “takes science out of the lab and into the community” — and now there’s an event for the kids, too. Hot Chocolate with a Marshmallow is an opportunity for kids to hear all about what it’s like to be an astronaut — from what it’s like to float around in the ISS to what we learn about living on earth by leaving it — from the real deal, Dr. Robert Thirsk.
The Best Earth has to Offer
UCalgary is a global leader in Earth-Space technologies, advancing communication networks, environmental monitoring, and space health while inspiring start-ups and positioning Canada among the top space-tech innovators. For 50 years, in over 20 missions, UCalgary has collaborated with universities and agencies worldwide, including NASA and the Canadian Space Agency, to study the Aurora, space health, and defence. Alberta now leads fast-growing space-to-earth sectors, fostering a vibrant innovation hub and shaping the future of exploration.