A Canadian astronaut may seem an unlikely choice of ambassador for Tourism Ireland, but the country is hoping their new appointment will help draw visitors to the emerald isle.

Chris Hadfield, who became an internet sensation last year after posting a YouTube video of himself performing David Bowie's Space Oddity on board the International Space Station, stars in a series of four new films promoting Ireland to prospective holidaymakers.

The films were made earlier this year and feature Hadfield visiting some of the country's most popular attractions and experiencing Irish culture. The first film, which launched today, features Donegal and the Inishowen peninsula as well as footage of Hadfield learning Gaelic from local school children.

The other three films, which will be launched from tomorrow, will feature the Titanic Belfast, the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and footage of Hadfield trying out the Gaelic sport of hurling.

Although his appointment may seem surprising, the charismatic astronaut won a following in Ireland after tweeting pictures of the country from space, along with messages in Gaelic. His daughter is currently studying at Dublin's Trinity College.

Ireland's minister for transport, tourism and sport Leo Varadkar said: "Chris Hadfield is one of the few people on earth who has seen Ireland from space, and on the ground."

"We're delighted that Chris had such a good time during his stay and hopefully he'll be back for another visit in the near future."