Train like an Astronaut

Staying fit and healthy benefits us all. In my case it is a necessity. Not only because I will be running the Solar Eclipse Marathon in Port Douglas, Australia on November 14, 2012, but I also have to stay strong for my upcoming space flight mission.

ESA's Astronaut and Exp 40/41 crew member Alex Gerst cheering me on!

In partnership with the White House "Let's Move!" initiative, NASA's "Train Like an Astronaut" program aims to increase opportunities in both in and out of school for kids to become more physically and mentally active. This program uses the "Have you ever wondered what it takes to be an astronaut?" excitement of space exploration and astronaut training to challenge, inspire, and educate kids to set physical fitness goals and to practice physical fitness and proper nutrition.

In this program kids will explore mission challenges, learn the science behind nutrition, and learn to train like a real astronaut! It's a ton of fun.

The Train Like an Astronaut physical activities are modeled after the real-life training that astronauts do to prepare for exploration of space. Kids (and adults) will experience hands-on science that relates the needs of our bodies on Earth to the needs of an astronaut in space (and hopefully will also experience some sore muscles!)

These activities were developed in cooperation with NASA scientists and fitness professionals who work directly with astronauts like me and my Expedition 40/41 crew members Reid Wiseman (NASA) and Alexander Gerst (ESA). Although the program is designed for 8-12 year olds, it is for anyone and everyone who is curious about exploration and what it takes to be an astronaut. Plus, keeping your body healthy and in shape is a fun bonus!

Would you like to know more information?
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/trainlikeanastronaut/home/index.html

And this is the solar eclipse marathon I am running: 
http://solar-eclipse-marathon.com/

Total Solar Eclipse - November 14, 2012 Cairns, Australia

On November 14, 2012 from 5:45 to 7:40 AM (Australia time) the solar eclipse shadow will sweep across Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef region.

I will be in Cairns, Australia to observe this amazing event. Below is map showing the path of the eclipse. As you can see the majority of the Moon's shadow will be casted over the Pacific Ocean.

And a more up-close view of where in Australia people can observe this event. This particular region has not seen a total solar eclipse since 17AD and the next one won't happen for over 200 years. Needless to say, many spectators are expected to come and safely view the Moon dance in front of the Sun. 

How exactly does a total eclipse happen?

Would you like to know more about the Australia 2012 Solar Eclipse?

NASA Sun Earth Day Australia 2012 Eclipse

Here is a preview from the Australia News TV Station

More information about the Australia Eclipse November 14, 2012 here