Richard Federley has an insatiable curiosity. <\/p>\n
This curiosity led him to the sign-up form to become Canadas next astronaut. <\/p>\n
The 35-year-old teaches chemistry at UBCO and has been listed as one of the 32 candidates competing for two spots at the Canadian Space Agency. <\/p>\n
I definitely have this incredible curiosity and drive to learn and experience as much as possible in my life. Thats kind of pushed me to venture out and try a lot of new things, said Federley. <\/p>\n
Federley is a paraglider extraordinaire and can be seen outside exploring new ventures and trails around Kelowna. <\/p>\n
But, for Federley, the ultimate exploration lies in space. <\/p>\n
Astronauts are not only explorers of planets, but also of science, testing new inventions and ideas for those down on earth, he said. <\/p>\n
That to me is very appealing to get out and learn things in new areas. <\/p>\n
Theres also the ability to engage the public, to have the opportunity to share his experiences with others, and teach them in new ways. <\/p>\n
I encourage students to follow through on their passion, because even if they ultimately dont succeed in achieving their dream, the journey towards it is a phenomenal life experience and often the best part he said. <\/p>\n
As a young boy in grade school, Federley always thought being an astronaut would be a pretty cool job. <\/p>\n
As a child, we think of floating and drops of water, but as I got older I saw the social and economic benefit for Canadians, he said. <\/p>\n
His ultimate goal is to help develop technologies and have a chance to give back to Canadians. <\/p>\n
In order to become an astronaut, candidates must pass two main assessments. <\/p>\n
The first session focused on physical assessments while the second focused on team building, collaboration and ones ability to respond in situations. <\/p>\n
Even though the other candidates are competition, Federley said working with them has been a learning experience. <\/p>\n
They represent Canadians from different walks of life, he said. It really is just a fantastic experience, it doesnt feel like were competing at all we want the person who succeeds to be built up. <\/p>\n
Federley loves the opportunity to be tested, saying hes got the chance to sample a flavour of what its like to be an astronaut. <\/p>\n
Having that opportunity chasing that dream will really enhance our lives, he said. <\/p>\n
Federley has been chosen from more than 3,700 participants. He expects to hear about the final selection this summer. <\/p>\n
Watch what its like to go through the second training session. <\/p>\n
To read the full version of this story, see Wednesdays edition of the Captial News. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Richard Federley and his wife, Jannah Mitchell (left) skydiving near Boulder Colorado. - Image Credit: Corey Ochsman. <\/p>\n
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UBCO professor shortlisted for space exploration - Salmon Arm ... - Salmon Arm Observer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Richard Federley has an insatiable curiosity. This curiosity led him to the sign-up form to become Canadas next astronaut. Continue reading