Pope calls International Space Station

ROME, May 21 (UPI) -- Pope Benedict XVI made a long-distance phone call Saturday, speaking to two Italian scientists on board the orbiting International Space Station.

The call marked the first time the pontiff has spoken with astronauts in orbit, Space.com reported.

Reading a statement, the pope said, ""Dear astronauts, I am very happy to have this extraordinary opportunity to converse with you during your mission and especially grateful to be able to speak to so many of you as both crews are present on the space station at this time."

The BBC said the pope spoke about U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, wife of space shuttle Endeavour commander Mark Kelly, who was shot in the head in Tucson, Ariz., in January. He also asked crew members several questions, including their views on world peace and science.