Industry Minister discusses Canada's commitment to space science with academic and industry leaders in Alberta
April 13, 2015 – Edmonton, Alberta – Industry Canada
Canada has a proud history in space. In 1962 it became the third nation in space, and it was the first country in the world to have its own satellite—beaming television to the far corners of Canada's North.
Speaking at a reception held in the shadow of the University of Alberta's Astronomical Observatory, Industry Minister James Moore today outlined the Harper Government's support for a transformative infrastructure project for Canadian space research: participation in the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT).
The TMT is a landmark international project that will build one of the world's largest and most advanced astronomical observatories, to be located in Hawaii. The majority of the Government's support for the TMT will be spent in Canada, creating high-quality jobs related to the construction and assembly of key telescope components. Canada's contribution will also secure a viewing share for Canadian researchers at the TMT once it is operational in 2023–24.
Through Canada's participation in the TMT, University of Alberta researchers and students will have access to leading-edge technologies and observing time on a world-class, state-of-art facility. Canada will continue to demonstrate its know-how and leadership in astronomy research, allowing the country to maintain a pool of highly qualified people who will bring their expertise to other disciplines.
Jake Enwright
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Industry
343-291-2500
Media Relations
Industry Canada
343-291-1777
media-relations@ic.gc.ca
