Return to top of page.
Return to primary navigation.
Skip to secondary navigation.

Looking Back - Julie Payette Lecture - "The Earth from Above: An Astronaut’s Perspective"

50th Anniversary Signature Event

Lecture | August 27, 2012 | University Centre Farquhar Auditorium

On August 27, 2012, we began counting down to the launch of UVic’s 50th anniversary with an inspiring presentation from Canadian astronaut Julie Payette, OC, QC and Co-Chair, 50th Anniversary Honorary Cabinet. Payette gave a special presentation about her life as an astronaut and wowed the audience with images and videos from her journeys into space. Payette closed her presentation with a thoughtful reflection on Neil Armstrong’s life and urged the audience to follow in Neil's footsteps and push the boundaries of human knowledge.

It was wonderful to see so many families and people from UVic’s community at the event. After her lecture, Payette took questions from the audience. The majority of the questions came from children who asked thought-compelling gems, such as “what does it smell like in space?” There was one final moment of excitement when Payette gave a special gift to UVic - a BC flag that had accompanied her into space.

We'd like to thank Julie Payette and the 50th Anniversary Honorary Cabinet, External Relations, the Farquhar Auditorium and everyone who attended and helped to make this such a successful first event. Payette has kindly provided her presentation "An Astronaut's Perspective" for everyone to see.