Sparking youth's interest in science
Inspiring the scientists and engineers of tomorrow
Space exploration fuels our children's curiosity and imagination. Role models like astronauts inspire students to dream, and consequently, achieve their goals. Many astronauts, engineers, scientists and innovators remember watching the Moon landings as kids and being motivated to work towards their dreams. To this day, the Moon remains a source of inspiration, especially with the mission of the first Canadian around the lunar surface.
Humanity's quest to explore our planet, the Moon, Mars and further in space is already inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, explorers and thinkers.
Visiting schools and encouraging kids to study science
Part of an astronaut's duty is to visit schools and encourage young people to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The Canadian Space Agency's (CSA) astronauts and experts visit classrooms, virtually and in person – and even live from space! – to share how studying in STEM can be exciting.
CSA astronaut Jenni Gibbons credits Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada's first woman to go to space, with inspiring her to become a space explorer.
Discover how Canadian astronaut Jenni Gibbons reached her dream of becoming an astronaut thanks to inspiring role models, her passion for science and her mother's support. (Credits: CSA, Institution of Engineering and Technology, NASA)
Giving students the opportunity to participate in real space missions
The CSA shares resources with educators and inspires young Canadians through fun learning activities.
It collaborates with many organizations across the country to offer opportunities for educators and students from kindergarten to grade 12.
Through initiatives like CUBICS and the STRATOS program, post-secondary students have the opportunity to design, build, and launch their own miniature satellites into space, as well as develop and deploy scientific instruments into the stratosphere.
The CSA also offers internships and student jobs in order to give students real-life experience and to support research, awareness and learning in space science and technology.