Dr. Robert Thirsk visits Extreme Explorers – Sea to Space

Canadian astronaut Dr. Robert Thirsk visited the Canadian Museum of History this morning where he was reunited with the medal that he brought with him on his voyage to the International Space Station in 2009.

A symbol of leading-edge science and exploration, the Arctic Medal 1818–1855 was the first British Arctic service medal. Authorized by Queen Victoria in 1857, it was awarded to individuals around the world who participated ― during the years from 1818 to 1855 ― in discovery missions to find the North Pole or the Northwest Passage, or in search expeditions to locate Sir John Franklin’s missing ships.

Displayed at the Museum until January, 4, the medal is part of The Manitoba Museum’s Hudson’s Bay Company Collection. In turn, the Manitoba Museum is presenting a replica of Samuel de Champlain’s astrolabe from the Canadian Museum of History’s collection.