Retired astronaut Hadfield makes giant leap for Irish tourism

Chris Hadfield, the retired Canadian astronaut, rock star, and internet sensation, began his new role as an ambassador for tourism to Ireland with four short films promoting the Emerald Isle.

He shot the online films — called An Astronaut’s Guide To The Island Of Ireland — during a trip earlier this where he spent several days taking in the attractions.

Tourism Ireland is hoping the world-wide interest in the former astronaut, who beamed several stunning shots of Ireland from space while he was commander of the International Space Station last year, will help woo potential holiday-makers.