Astronaut candidate's profile
The candidates participating in the astronaut selection process all have unique journeys and outstanding qualities and skills. You can read their remarkable profiles here.
Marchetti, Catherine
Where were you born?
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Where do you currently live?
Kanata, Ontario, Canada
Education
- Bachelor's, space sciences – Royal Military College of Canada
- Master's, defence studies – Royal Military College of Canada
- Master's, atmospheric physics – University of Toronto
Photo of the astronaut candidate during the aptitude tests. (Credit: Canadian Space Agency)
What is your current job?
Aerospace engineering officer, Canadian Armed Forces - I have specialized in space through my work on space projects (operational and research systems) and on developing space strategies/policies. I worked at the Canadian Space Agency as a mission planner and at the MIT Lincoln Laboratory Millstone Hill Radar as an orbital analyst. During my career in the Forces, I was also senior engineering and aircraft maintenance officer at 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron, where I was responsible for more than 100 aircraft technicians and two fleets (CC130 Hercules and CH146 Griffon).
Why do you want to become an astronaut?
This would be the most exciting space job! I have worked in several areas of the space field. Becoming an astronaut would allow me to apply my knowledge while learning new skills.
I am an ambassador for space and have undertaken an awareness campaign to better inform people about what space is bringing us. As an astronaut, I could reach the public and promote the Canadian space program.
I want to inspire people to follow their passions, especially young Canadians. I want to encourage young women to pursue careers in STEM. As a female astronaut, I would be a model for them.