Welcome to Space Matters!
The future of innovation and exploration depends on developing the minds and imaginations of the next generation of thinkers, researchers and space pioneers. Here at Space Matters we believe that every Canadian should have access to a rich variety of learning opportunities. The goal of Space Matters is to raise awareness of the importance of space to Canadians and how it touches on nearly every aspect of their daily lives. From Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and satellite communications to weather forecasting and monitoring the health of crops, the standard of living we currently enjoy is fundamentally dependent on satellites and space technologies. In parallel, the exploration of space drives innovation and pushes what we thought was possible to new limits, while at the same time addressing some of the biggest scientific questions of our time – such as are we alone in the universe?
Through Space Matters we seek to connect Canadians from coast to coast who are interested in space and to use space to ignite interest and motivate young minds to study science and engineering and to pursue careers in these fields.
Canada in Space Timeline
Did you know that Canada was the third country – following Russia and the USA – to launch a satellite into space?! And did you know that a Canadian instrument detected snowfall on Mars for the first time?! Canada has a long history in space. Explore our Canada in Space timeline to find out for yourself!
On February 28, 2019, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces Canada’s partnership in the NASA-led Lunar Gateway, a station that will orbit the Moon. With such an exciting contribution in our Canadian future, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) is excited to start inspiring our nation’s next generation of astronauts and space-scientists! They’ve developed the Junior Astronauts Campaign to do just that. With free activities for educators to run with the students, a draw for a CSA astronaut/space expert to visit their school, and a draw for students to go to space training camp at CSA Headquarters – it’s a campaign full of exciting opportunities for Canada’s newest generation!
The Space Matters Initiative and the Institute for Earth and Space Exploration is excited to be supporting the Junior Astronauts Campaign, and working on its mandate – to make it accessible to Canadian youth across the country and across all demographics!
Outside, looking in. Space provides an essential view of our world.
Powerful thunderstorms rage across the Prairies. Will they spawn damaging tornadoes, and if so, where? Blizzard conditions threaten to shut down the Greater Toronto Area, possibly for days, but who will be hardest hit? A hurricane approaches Atlantic Canada, packing...
read moreSpace offers a new perspective. Reconnecting to the universe.
“It has been said that astronomy is a humbling and character-building experience. There is perhaps no better demonstration of the folly of human conceits than this distant image of our tiny world.” - Carl SaganWhenever I speak to an audience, I ask them how many stars...
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