First Canadian International Space Station Commander Appointed

The ISS is an orbital laboratory created, maintained and used for science and technology development by Canada, Europe, Japan, Russia and the United States. Astronauts are assigned to the ISS for six-month periods which are ideal for studying the long-term effects of weightlessness on the human body. Crew members conduct experiments daily on behalf of scientists on the ground, and the results contribute to new insights into human health issues, improving understanding and control over physical processes that affect many of us. Osteoporosis, maintaining physical conditioning and balance, the long-term effects of radiation, and visual perception are some of the areas of scientific research that have great potential to enhance our quality of life here on Earth. While the science and technological innovation carried out on the ISS has great potential to improve our lives, it will also be applied to future space exploration efforts that will extend humanity’s reach across the solar system.
www.asc-csa.gc.ca