How important is the return to flight of the space shuttle for Canada and its partners?
Canada has made a strong commitment as a partner in the International Space Station and, like the other partners, wishes to see the assembly of this unique orbiting laboratory continue. NASA wanted to assure its ability to examine the spacecraft in orbit for signs of damage. New standards for safety are now in place and Canada has helped provide tools and techniques that were needed. Technologies like these are innovative and represent great achievements for us. There are many experiments and a great deal of research that can be performed on the station that make a difference in our lives and we are committed to supporting this important vocation. The space industry is developing and delivering benefits that tie into our immediate needs and priorities here on Earth-for example, medical and materials research, and satellite communications.
