The Canadian space program has been built on bold ideas, strategic space investments and successful collaborations. Today, our leadership in space exploration not only endures but thrives, driving innovation and inspiring the next generation to reach for the stars. On October 5, 2024, Canada will celebrate 40 years of Canadians in space, a journey that started with Marc Garneau's historic first flight in 1984.
The last four decades have been marked by significant moments: from the creation of the Canadian astronaut corps and subsequent 17 missions, to the assignment of Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut, Jeremy Hansen, to fly around the Moon onboard Artemis II. Astronaut missions have always been a source of tremendous pride and inspiration, encouraging young people to study and pursue careers in the fields of science and engineering. These missions have demonstrated time and time again their potential to ignite a lasting and genuine interest in space exploration, leaving a mark on entire generations at a time.
Our long-standing and close collaboration with the United States has been instrumental in achieving many important Canadian space milestones, from the Space Shuttle to the Moon. As humanity ventures into uncharted territory, Canada intends to remain a reliable and sought-after international partner for human space exploration.
Canada has been making strategic space investments to help foster the long-term growth of our space sector. The Canadian space sector is well positioned to contribute to the evolving space economy with the development of Canadarm3 for Gateway and the upcoming two Canadian rovers set to explore the Moon. When we invest in cutting-edge space innovation that will help explore our solar system further, we are also investing in technologies that can bring concrete benefits back to Earth, helping improve the quality of life of Canadians across the country.
