In Peake condition: Britain's next official astronaut prepares to blast off
Britain's first official European Space Agency astronaut Tim Peake has spoken of his hopes to "make science fun" and inspire a new generation of space explorers, as he prepares to blast off into space next month.
The 43-year-old will embark on a Russian Soyuz rocket for a six-month stay on the International Space Station next month
Speaking to ITV News at London's Science Museum, he spoke about how he is able to keep "calm" ahead of his impending trip.
"I've had the benefit of being a back-up crew six months ago, so I've seen all this and that really installs a lot of confidence in the system."
"I know what's coming up, which probably helps to keep me calm in these situations", he added.
When asked what a typical day in space would be like, he said "No two days are the same", adding, "You have to remain very fluid and flexible".
As part of his "Principia" mission, the former military test pilot will become a "guinea pig" in a series of experiments to research asthma, the immune system and the ageing process.
He will also engage with the public through social media and it is hoped schools will offer lessons about his work.
"We've tried to make science fun and let people share the information as much as possible, so things they can do with me onboard the space station, be that writing code for the Astro Pi computers or growing rocket seeds that have been grown in space once I bring them back.
On the prospect of being apart from his family for Christmas, Mr Peake said: "My family have been great, they're very supportive and we've know this was coming for a while now.
"It's going to be a Christmas away but also it's going to be a very unique Christmas, he added.
Watch Tim Peake space walk training
The UK Space Agency will be holding four launch-day events to mark the occasion.
They will allow more than 10,000 members of the public to participate in science and outreach activities.
The agency will also stream live footage of Mr Peake's launch and docking.
Minister for Universities and Science Jo Johnson said it was a truly proud moment for the UK, adding, "This is our moonshot moment as a country".