MONTREAL

Astronaut Julie Payette earns Order of Canada

ctvmontreal.ca Published Thursday, July 1, 2010 2:50PM EDT

Canadian astronaut Julie Payette describes her mission to the International Space Station with a photograph in the background of the space shuttle with her in it during lift off in Longueuil, Que. on Friday, August 28, 2009. (Paul Chiasson / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

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Astronaut Julie Payette and actor Michael J. Fox are among a group of 74 Canadians who were appointed to the Order of Canada Wednesday by Governor General Michaelle Jean.

Payette was recognized for her work as an engineer and astronaut. She was described as "a source of inspiration" for engineering in Canada. Fox was saluted for his work as an advocate for those with Parkinson's disease, and as an actor in film and on television.

Other appointees from Quebec include Joseph Rouleau for his contributions to the development of the musical community and opera in Canada, Raymond Chretien for his political contributions as a career diplomat, and Alice Chan-Yip for her work as a pediatrician and volunteer in Montreal. In all, 21 Quebecers were among the appointees.

The Order of Canada was established in 1967 to recognize achievement and service in various fields. It is Canada's highest civilian honour for lifetime achievement.