ESA Astronaut Tim Peak and “Flat Tim.” Credit: ESA

Tim Peake just recently finished his 186-day mission working on the International Space Station, safely returning to Earth on June 18. He is the first British European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut, with a background as a test pilot and a British Army Air Corps officer.

His mission for Expedition 46/47, titled “Principia,” was to do experiments that cannot be done anywhere on Earth. These experiments include physiology, biology, materials science, solar physics, radiation physics and technology demonstrations. What made Tim’s mission so unique was his two-dimensional twin, affectionately named “Flat Tim,” who toured schools, museums and other locations while he was on the ISS for 6 months.

“Flat Tim” visits St Vincent’s Catholic Primary School. Credit: St. VIncent’s.

Tim used his mission inspire people, especially children, to develop their interest in science and to learn more about the career opportunities that it opens up. “Flat Tim” was able to highlight the mission and encourage kids to investigate and learn about STEM topics while also following Tim’s mission on the ISS and generating interest in the ESA and human spaceflight.

You can continue to follow Tim’s continuing mission of education here
You can also follow “Flat Tim” and his adventures here
The details of the Principia Mission and it’s results can be found here