Tim Peake: Early Reader Edition

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Timothy Nigel Peake, known as Tim Peake, was born on April 7, 1972, in Chichester, England. He was a pilot in the British Army before he became an astronaut. His journey to visit the International Space Station (ISS) has been told all around the world! 

In December 2015, Tim Peake became the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS). During his six-month mission he not only did a spacewalk but ran the distance of the London Marathon whilst he was in space! Peake’s journey inspired millions of children to learn more about space, science, and technology. He cares about STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and math) very much, and he works hard to make sure children know just how important learning STEM is.

Tim grew up in Westbourne, West Sussex. As a child, he loved adventure and enjoyed being outside. He was in the Cub Scouts and the school Cadet Force, and he learned how to hike, climb, and kayak. When he was just 13, he got to fly a plane for the first time, and he knew he wanted to be a pilot. By the age of 18, he was already flying planes by himself!

After finishing school, Tim joined the British Army and became a helicopter pilot. He flew a special kind of helicopter called an Apache helicopter and went on many important missions to lots of different countries including Northern Ireland, Bosnia, and Afghanistan. He worked hard and soon became an expert pilot and instructor.

In 2009, Tim’s dream of going to space came true. Out of 8,000 people, he was chosen to become an astronaut for the European Space Agency (ESA). He trained for years, learning how to live and work in space.

Tim’s mission to the ISS was called Principia. While in space, he did experiments to help scientists learn more about how space affects the human body and materials. His work helped prepare for future space missions. Tim also loved sharing his experiences with people back on Earth. He sent messages, videos, and even spoke to schoolchildren to get them interested in space and science.

Tim Peake has received many awards for his amazing work in space and science. In 2016, he was honored by the Queen of England – he was made a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for his research on space. Today, he continues to encourage children to explore science, space, and adventure.

Tim is married to Rebecca, and they have two sons. He still loves exploring, hiking, and spending time outdoors with his family.

Tim Peake’s story teaches us that with hard work, courage, and curiosity, we can reach for the stars and do amazing things!

To learn more about Tim Peake, visit: www.timpeake.com