Chichester astronaut Tim Peake celebrated in Queen's birthday honours

Major Peake was launched to the International Space Station (ISS) on December 15 last year.

He has been working on dozens of experiments for researchers on Earth as he orbits the planet at 28,800 km/h.

Highlights of his scientific roster include growing crystals and blood vessels in space, simulating atomic structures and charting areas in the brain as they adapt to stressful situations.

He has also been in constant contact via social media, revealing his music playlist, sending back photos of the planet from space and answering the many questions posed by his followers.

Major Peake was awarded a companion of the order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for his work on the space station and contributions to scientific education.

Also recognised in the honours was forces sweetheart Dame Vera Lynn.

Dame Vera has joined the elite Companions of Honour in recognition of her services to entertainment and charity.

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage

2) Like our Facebook page

3) Follow us on Twitter

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

Always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.