Chris Hadfield prepares for UK tour while tackling space exploration questions
Chris Hadfield, a former astronaut with three space missions, addresses the universal curiosity surrounding space travel, particularly the question of how astronauts manage basic bodily functions in zero gravity, reports BritPanorama.
“People are curious about human bodily functions, because it’s common to us all,” Hadfield remarks, viewing these inquiries as valuable teaching moments. Since retiring in 2013, Hadfield has travelled globally, sharing insights from his experiences in space.
In 2027, he will tour the UK with his new show, Exploring The New Space Age, focusing on the “rapidly changing world of space innovation” within a projected $2 trillion space economy. When asked about the often-posed questions regarding toilet habits in space, he engages audiences by demonstrating the process on stage, blending entertainment with educational content about human physiology and physics.
Hadfield explains that these discussions can lead to broader topics, including urban sewage systems and the physiological effects of living in space. “As long as the person is asking the question out of genuine curiosity, then it’s a privilege to answer it,” he says.
At 66, Hadfield appears remarkably youthful and continues to be an advocate for sharing knowledge from his unique life experiences. “I recognise that my life experience has been nearly unique in all of human history,” he adds, having served as a public servant for 35 years across the air force and space agencies.
Reflecting on his childhood dreams inspired by the Apollo 11 moon landing, he recounts his determination to pursue a career in space exploration despite being from a country without an astronaut programme. “I thought that if there was any way I could somehow qualify [to become an astronaut], then I was going to do it,” he states.
Hadfield has flown on space shuttle missions and spent six months on the International Space Station, contributing to significant advancements in space research. “Up there,” he explains, “we find and discover and invent things daily.” His post-retirement life as a public educator includes writing books, performing music, and delivering insights on space exploration.
While discussing the challenges that some astronauts face after returning to Earth, Hadfield remains proactive, choosing to focus on educating others and sharing his experiences in space. He acknowledges the recent global interest in space travel, particularly boosted by the Artemis II mission, which has reignited discussions around humanity’s next steps in space.
Hadfield supports continued exploration and settlement on the Moon, likening it to humanity’s innate curiosity and drive to discover. He highlights the ongoing race between the US and China in establishing a presence on the lunar surface, with significant timelines set for upcoming missions.
“The Chinese absolutely have a building-block approach, and they are going to have people on the moon within three-and-a-half years from now,” he notes. Meanwhile, NASA is committed to accelerating its programme. As these competitive efforts unfold, Hadfield likens it to the excitement of exploration, suggesting that it drives innovation and interest in space.
‘Chris Hadfield: Exploring the New Space Age’ tours the UK and Ireland in May and June 2027. Tickets are available here
