Longueuil, Quebec, June 22, 2010 – The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and NASA invite journalists to observe the international, multidisciplinary Pavilion Lake Research Project (PLRP) team as it studies and explores the origin of rare freshwater carbonate rock formations that thrive in Pavilion Lake, British Columbia.
News media will have an opportunity to interview CSA Astronaut Chris Hadfield, NASA astronauts Stan Love and Mike Gernhardt, and an international team of researchers on site on July 6 as they conduct research about life in extreme environments using a combination of underwater vehicles and scuba divers. The research project blends science and technology to advance knowledge of astrobiology and examine how humans could explore the Moon and Mars.
Scientists believe the carbonate rock structures, known as microbialites, were formed by microorganisms more than 2.5 billion years ago. Today, environments rich in microbialites are seen as potential analogues for the biological, geological and chemical processes of early Earth. Similar processes possibly occurred on other planets.
Media representatives are invited to CSA for the videoconference event.
News media interested in going to Pavilion Lake must register before July 5 at: tinyurl.com/plrpmedia. A park permit is required for filming at Pavilion Lake. Reporters should email Rob Enns at rob.enns@gov.bc.ca to obtain a permit. News media will also be required to pass boat and land safety and logistical checkouts for before gaining access to the PLRP Project field site.
To schedule interviews with CSA spokespersons, please contact CSA Media Relations at 450-926-4370.
For more information about this year's Pavilion Lake Research Project, visit:
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronomy/mars/pavillon_lake.asp
www.pavilionlake.com
Media guide: www.pavilionlake.com/media.php
On July 6th, video and pictures will be available at this address:
ftp.asc-csa.gc.ca/pub/communication/3_MOIS/100622_pavilion_lake/
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For more information please contact:
Media Relations
Canadian Space Agency
Tel.: 450-926-4370
www.asc-csa.gc.ca
