Chris Hadfield

There's a bit of a buzz here this morning. We're excited about the debut of Chris Hadfield as a regular contributor to CBC News.

You know Chris: Canadian astronaut, photographer, musician, Twitter phenom. Taught himself Russian. Yeah, that guy.

Well starting tonight on The National (and in the days ahead on Radio One), he'll be appearing on the air to share his insights and wisdom on a variety of topics -- not just space travel.

Here's a media release that we issued last week:

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Starting January 20, Colonel Chris Hadfield Will Be a Regular Contributor to CBC News

January 17, 2014 - CBC News announces that Colonel Chris Hadfield will offer regular contributions to CBC News. He will bring his insights on pressing issues using his unique perspective from an inspired and exciting career and life. On Jan. 20, 2014, Col. Hadfield will debut his new role on THE NATIONAL and CBC Radio One. In a segment focusing on the Olympics, Col. Hadfield will draw from his own experiences and explore what it takes to be at the top of your game and achieve ultimate success.

THE NATIONAL airs at 10/10:30 p.m. NT on CBC-TV and at 9 & 11pm ET/PT on CBC News Network.

What insights can we learn from the first Canadian to walk in space and command the International Space Station, became an international music sensation while in orbit, and inspired millions around the world on the wonders of space and science? On CBC News, Canadians will have a window into a side of Col. Hadfield that the world hasn't seen before.

"Chris Hadfield will bring his legendary passion and drive for science, space, and life to CBC News," said Jennifer McGuire, general manager and editor-in-chief, CBC News and Centres. "Since his first space mission, and being the first Canadian to walk in space, Chris has been an inspiration to us all. We're so pleased that he'll be able to share his wisdom and lust for life with all Canadians on CBC News."

"I'm delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to the CBC, a broadcaster that unites Canada by sharing our diverse perspectives and voices, across Canada and around the world," said Col. Chris Hadfield.

Since the age of nine, after watching Neil Armstrong land on the moon, Col. Hadfield has pursued his singular goal of becoming an astronaut. He has since popularized space travel and science to a global audience through his passion, charisma, and innovative use of social media tools. Starting Jan. 20, Canadians will have the opportunity to get to know and learn from Col. Hadfield on CBC News.

For more information on Col. Chris Hadfield, click here.