Benefits of Space Exploration and Astronomy

Historically Speaking... Without astronomy we would not have timekeeping and calendars! Without astronomy we would not be aware of the worlds, including a whole universe of planets and stars and galaxies, that exist beyond Earth.

In our daily lives... We would not be able to predict weather patterns. We would not be able to monitor the changing environment in Earth We would not have the same communication We would not be able to navigate with GPS

We would not be able to monitor solar radiation We would not be able to monitor asteroids or comets that might impact and possibly destroy the Earth We Would Live in Fear!

It Brings Nations Together Astronomy and space research encourages international cooperation between nations. It reminds us that we may be from different countries but we share one planet.

Leaders of the World... Investing in space research and astronomy allows Canadians to be leaders in developing new technologies. This leads to jobs in our country. Radarsat2 is a communication satellite that monitors our marine waters, is improving our mapping of remote areas of Earth. It was invented by Canadians.

Opportunity Do any of you dream of being an astronaut, astronomer, or having a career in space research one day? Less than 10% of the countries on Earth invest in space exploration or astronomy. This dream is almost impossible for children in the other 90% of the countries on Earth. It is because the government allocates a portion of its spending to astronomy and space exploration that you have the opportunity to pursue these careers. Astronomy attracts young people to science and technology, and hence to careers in these fields. Chris Hadfield, Canadian astronaut, in space. John Percy, an astronomer at the University of Toronto, studies stars, namely pulsating red giant stars, to learn how stars change or evolve over time. This research help us learn more about our Sun.

Protecting our home. Astronomy and space exploration allow us to monitor and continue to learn about our home, Earth.