Canadian Astronaut Joshua Kutryk to Carry Family Heirloom Pocket Watch to International Space Station
Canadian Space Agency astronaut Joshua Kutryk is bringing a family heirloom, a pocket watch over 100 years old, aboard the NASA SpaceX Crew-13 mission to the International Space Station.
Fresno Visalia, CA, October 1, 2026 —
Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Joshua Kutryk is set to embark on a journey to the International Space Station (ISS) carrying a significant personal item: a family heirloom pocket watch. The timepiece is reportedly over 100 years old.
Kutryk is scheduled to travel to the orbiting laboratory as part of the NASA SpaceX Crew-13 mission. This mission marks a personal milestone for the astronaut, who will bring a tangible piece of his family history into orbit.
The pocket watch, passed down through generations, represents a connection to the past as Kutryk ventures into the future of space exploration. Its presence aboard the ISS is intended to symbolize continuity and heritage amidst the advanced technological environment of space travel.
Further details regarding the specific model of the pocket watch, its provenance, or how it will be secured during the mission were not immediately available. The inclusion of such personal items is a long-standing tradition for many astronauts, allowing them to maintain a link to their lives on Earth while undertaking missions that can last for months.
Joshua Kutryk was selected by the CSA in 2017. He has since undergone extensive training for spaceflight. The NASA SpaceX Crew missions utilize the Crew Dragon spacecraft, ferrying astronauts to and from the ISS on behalf of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.
The carrying of personal mementos, often referred to as mementos or personal preference items (PPIs), is a regulated aspect of space missions. Each item must meet strict safety and weight requirements to ensure the integrity of the spacecraft and the mission’s objectives. The pocket watch’s selection highlights its importance to Kutryk and his family, balancing personal sentiment with the rigorous demands of spaceflight.
The exact launch date and crew complement for the NASA SpaceX Crew-13 mission were not specified in the provided information.
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