NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

NASA astronaut Chris Ferguson holds an image of Philadelphia that was taken from space and presented to the team. He is joined by Philadelphia Eagles Chief Operating Officer Don Smolenski (left) and Eagles President Joe Banner. Photo courtesy Philadelphia Eagles.

NASA astronaut Chris Ferguson was honored on Nov. 7 in his hometown by the Philadelphia Eagles. Ferguson was named Honorary Captain during the NFL's "Monday Night Football" game. The Eagles hosted the Chicago Bears at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

› Watch Chris Ferguson serve as the Philadelphia Eagles' Honorary Captain

Ferguson was recognized on the field for his dedication to America's space program and his leadership commanding the final flight of space shuttle Atlantis. The 13-day mission marked the end of the shuttle program's 30-year legacy with Atlantis' touchdown on July 21, 2011.

Before the game, Ferguson visited the Please Touch Museum, where he participated in story time and signed autographs. He also met with students that currently attend St. Martha’s Parrish Elementary School, Ferguson’s alma mater.

There was also a stop at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Commander Ferguson visited with several of the patients and was interviewed by the hospitals’ on-air radio station, “The Voice.”