Colonel Chris Hadfield

  • Former Commander of the International Space Station

  • One of the most seasoned and accomplished astronauts in the world

  • Author of bestsellers An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth and You Are Here

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About

Colonel Chris Hadfield is one of the most seasoned and accomplished astronauts in the world. The top graduate of the U.S. Air Force test pilot school in 1988 and U.S. Navy test pilot of the year in 1991, Colonel Hadfield was selected to be an astronaut in 1992.

Through his 21-years as an astronaut, 3 space flights and 2600 orbits of Earth, Chris Hadfield has become a worldwide sensation, harnessing the power of social media to make outer space accessible to millions and infusing a sense of wonder into our collective consciousness not felt since humanity first walked on the Moon.

His music video, a zero gravity version of David Bowie's 'Space Oddity' received over 10 million views in its first three days online. “Good morning, Earth!” is how Hadfield – writing on Twitter – woke up the world every day while living for 5 months aboard the International Space Station.

Called “the most famous astronaut since Neil Armstrong”, Chris Hadfield continues to bring the marvels of science and space travel to everyone he encounters.

Colonel Hadfield is a pioneer of many historic “firsts”. In 1992 he was selected by the Canadian Space Agency as a NASA Mission Specialist – Canada’s first fully qualified Space Shuttle crew member. Three years later, aboard Shuttle Atlantis, he was the first Canadian to operate the Canadarm in space, and the first Canadian to board a Russian spacecraft as he helped build space station “Mir”.

In 2001, aboard Shuttle Endeavour, Colonel Chris Hadfield performed two space walks – the first Canadian to do so – and in 2013 he was Commander of the International Space Station – the first and only Canadian to ever command a spaceship – so far.

During his multifaceted career Chris Hadfield has intercepted Soviet bombers in Canadian airspace, lived on the ocean floor, been NASA’s Director of Operations in Russia, and recorded science and music videos seen by hundreds of millions.

A heavily decorated astronaut, engineer, and pilot, Colonel Hadfield’s many awards include receiving the Order of Canada, the Meritorious Service Cross, and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal. He was named the Top Test Pilot in both the US Air Force and the US Navy, and has been inducted into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame.

He is the author of two internationally best-selling books, An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth and You Are Here, and has been commemorated on Canadian postage stamps, Royal Canadian Mint coins, and on Canada’s newest five dollar bill (along with fellow astronauts Steve MacLean and Dave Williams).

Speech Topics

There's an astronaut saying in space, "there is no problem so bad that you can't make it worse". So how do you deal with the complexity, the sheer pressure, of dealing with dangerous and scary situations?

Retired Colonel Chris Hadfield, former Commander of the International Space Station, paints a vivid portrait of how to be prepared for the worst in space (and life). He has had the type of career one can only dream of – just like he did as a child watching the Apollo 11 moon landing. He has spoken to the world from the biggest stage... now book him on yours.

As a metaphor for pursuing our dreams we’re often told to reach for the stars and Chris literally did it. The commitment, intelligence, sacrifice, and hard work that allow him to achieve his dreams have taught him some valuable lessons over his 20+ year career – and have left him with some incredibly riveting stories and advice to give.

Now he wants to share his experiences. In his passionate and inspiring talks, Chris Hadfield imparts the useful and practical lessons he’s learned throughout his remarkable career – in the fields of leadership, teamwork, collaboration, science, and technology – in space and on Earth.

Videos

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Testimonials

Chris Garnered a standing ovation and powerful comments in the book and photo line. Not only did he inspire us all, but he spent extra time with our customers, taking photos, signing books, and he personally connected with everyone. He is a gem on top of all the amazing accomplishments. His willingness to tailor his remarks to reflect Concur’s Perfect Trip concept was, well, stellar. He was nothing but gracious from beginning to end.

Concur.

Of our survey respondents, 99% of attendees found Chris Hadfield’s presentation to be impactful!!! Outstanding results.

TD Canada Trust.

I can't thank you enough for making it possible for us to host him – he brought a profile to our work that we haven't had in years!

Michelle M. Campbell - St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation.

The event went very well last Thursday and the true highlight of the evening was Chris’ speech. He did such a wonderful job of connecting his own personal experiences to C-DAAP and their goal of being able to support dressage athletes and help them realise their dreams.

Bassett Events Inc.

Our annual Safety & Quality Summit includes a Gala Dinner at which he have been privileged to have many well-known and highly entertaining guests; this year, we were honoured to have Chris Hadfield as our special guest and I have to say he excelled all of our expectations, and more. An enthralling story, masterfully delivered with style and humour, and supported with breathtaking images. Chris’s commitment to provide a once in a lifetime opportunity for all of our guests was truly selfless and much appreciated by all who benefited from what was a fantastic evening.

CHC Helicopter & Safety Summit.

The event was outstanding and your help with organising Chris Hadfield’s speaking engagement was professional and very appreciated. It was the best event we have ever held. Chris and Evan helped to make the event stress-free, being so calm, kind, and friendly, open and attentive to us, our students and guests both before and after the event. They were a pleasure. It goes without saying that Chris’ presentation was beyond wonderful. Inspiring, humorous, insightful, surprising. What a shining example of leadership he is for all of us. We were thrilled to have him in London.

Ivey Business School at Western University.

Chris’s participation at the reception and his keynote address was exceptional. The event organisers were so impressed with how Chris worked with them and engaged them in conversation. He received a standing ovation from the delegates. The feedback continues to be very positive. Thank Chris again for making this a memorable event.

Omnicron.

Chris — on behalf of Kubota Canada Ltd., its employees and its dealers across the country, we are honoured and thrilled that you were able to be part of Kubota’s 40th Anniversary celebration at our National Dealer Meeting last week in Atlanta. Thanks for your multiple messages of inspiration. Many people mentioned to me that your strategy of “planning to fail” gave them a new way to look at our they might build their business strategies. On a personal note, thanks for tailoring your presentation to our Kubota group and connecting on a familiar level, equipment. As mentioned above, the message was received!

Kubota Canada Ltd.

Books and DVDs

Clients often ask about purchasing books for giveaways and delegate packs. Below you’ll find a selection of products by Colonel Chris Hadfield. Click the images to view on Amazon's website. For bulk orders, please speak with your Booking Agent.

How to book Colonel Chris Hadfield for your event

To book Colonel Chris Hadfield, please submit an online enquiry to booking.agent@nmp.co.uk or contact one of our booking agents on +44 (0)20 3822 0003.

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