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.
Lenio, Martha
Where were you born?
Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Where do you currently live?
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Education
- Bachelor's, mechanical engineering – University of Waterloo
- Doctorate, photovoltaic engineering – University of New South Wales
Photo of the astronaut candidate during the aptitude tests. (Credit: Canadian Space Agency)
What is your current job?
Business owner, renewable energy - I own my own renewable energy consulting company – Mars Green Consulting. We specialize in photovoltaic and renewable energy systems for remote communities, and I would like it to grow into the area of smart grids. I also work for TDA Global Cycling, and help lead cycling tours across continents.
Why do you want to become an astronaut?
I have always wanted a job that allows me to travel the world and have adventures. As I grew up, I realized that "astronaut" is perhaps the perfect career for me—weathering hardships while being exposed to the most amazing new places and experiences.
The journey itself takes you to incredible places as you master the huge variety of skills required. However, of all the places in the solar system, I still love Earth the most. I'd like to encourage everyone to "live like an astronaut"—recycling everything, using renewable energy, and leading healthy lifestyles.