33 Interesting Facts about Julie Payette

Dan September 1, 2023

Julie Payette is a Canadian astronaut, engineer, and former Governor General of Canada. Born on October 20, 1963, in Montreal, Quebec, she gained prominence for her significant contributions to space exploration and scientific research. Payette’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from McGill University and a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Toronto.

Payette’s remarkable career as an astronaut began in 1992 when she was selected as one of four astronauts by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). She participated in two spaceflights: the first in 1999 aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery and the second in 2009 aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour. During these missions, she conducted various experiments and played a crucial role in assembly and maintenance activities on the International Space Station (ISS).

In addition to her astronautical achievements, Julie Payette has held prominent roles in scientific and governmental organizations. She served as the Chief Astronaut for the CSA, overseeing the training and coordination of Canadian astronauts. In 2017, Payette was appointed as the 29th Governor General of Canada, the country’s representative of the monarchy and a ceremonial head of state. Her tenure, however, was marked by controversy and allegations of workplace harassment during her previous roles. She announced her resignation from the position in January 2021.

Despite the challenges that arose in her later career, Julie Payette’s accomplishments as an astronaut and her contributions to space exploration continue to be recognized for their significant impact on Canadian science and her role in inspiring the next generation of Canadian space enthusiasts.

Do you want to know more about Julie Payette? Here are 33 interesting facts about Julie Payette.

1. Julie Payette was born on October 20, 1963, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
2. She is fluent in both English and French.
3. Payette has a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from McGill University.
4. She also holds a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Toronto.
5. Payette’s astronaut career began in 1992 when she was selected as one of four astronauts by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).
6. She completed her basic astronaut training in 1996.
7. Julie Payette was the first Canadian astronaut to board the International Space Station (ISS).
8. In 1999, she flew on the Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-96, participating in the first shuttle flight to dock with the ISS.
9. She logged over 25 days in space during her first mission.
10. Payette’s second spaceflight was in 2009 on Space Shuttle Endeavour’s mission STS-127.
11. She participated in two spacewalks during her second mission, totaling over 15 hours outside the spacecraft.
12. She served as a flight engineer and operated the shuttle’s robotic arm on her missions.
13. Payette has been involved in conducting various scientific experiments and research while in space.
14. She is known for her passion for promoting science and inspiring young people to pursue careers in STEM fields.
15. Payette is an accomplished pianist and singer, having performed with various orchestras and choirs.
16. She was a member of the board of directors for the Montreal Symphony Orchestra.
17. Julie Payette is an avid runner and has participated in multiple marathons.
18. She served as the Chief Astronaut for the CSA, overseeing training and coordination of Canadian astronauts.
19. Payette is a recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the NASA Space Flight Medal.
20. She has held advisory roles in various organizations related to science and technology.
21. Payette was a part-time research professor at the École Polytechnique de Montréal.
22. She holds honorary doctorates from several Canadian universities.
23. Julie Payette is a Companion of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors.
24. She is also a Knight of the National Order of Quebec.
25. Payette is a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society.
26. She has been involved in public speaking engagements, sharing her experiences as an astronaut.
27. Payette has participated in events promoting international cooperation in space exploration.
28. She has been an advocate for addressing climate change and environmental issues.
29. Julie Payette has a deep interest in aviation and has logged flight hours in various aircraft.
30. She has participated in underwater analog missions, simulating aspects of space travel and exploration.
31. Payette has visited Antarctica as part of her involvement in scientific research.
32. In 2017, she was appointed as the 29th Governor General of Canada, becoming the fourth woman to hold the position.
33. Payette’s tenure as Governor General faced controversy and allegations of workplace harassment, leading to her resignation in 2021.

Julie Payette’s journey is one of remarkable achievement and inspiration. Her pioneering spirit as a Canadian astronaut, her dedication to advancing science and technology, and her passion for promoting education and exploration have left an indelible mark on both the field of space exploration and her home country. While her time as Governor General faced challenges, her earlier contributions as an astronaut and advocate for scientific progress continue to shine as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of Canadians and aspiring space enthusiasts around the world.