Space in the service of society: a Canadian case study

Canada places great emphasis on using space science and technology for the benefit of its citizens. Canada's first satellite, Alouette-1, was launched to study the ionosphere in order to advance our understanding of a range of phenomena associated with solar storms - from disturbances in radio communications in Canada's North to the majestic Northern Lights. The Canadian space program has recognized that adapting space-based technologies and processes for applications on Earth is the best way to surmount uniquely Canadian challenges, such as the vast distances and variety of landscapes and climatic conditions that define Canada. In the sixties, while looking for a way to connect communities scattered over our vast expanse, Canada came up with a proposal for its own national communications satellite system. Another project, Canada's Radarsat-1 satellite, provides surveillance of the country's huge expanse of land and sea. In addition, it has captured 15% of the global commercial market for Earth observation data. Canadian researchers have collaborated with NASA to build the robotic arm onboard the Space Shuttle. This led to an invitation for Canadian astronauts to participate in NASA's Human Spaceflight program. To date, there have been 11 flights by Canadians.