Knowing where your food comes from

Uploaded on June 4, 2025

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Knowing where your food comes from

Canadian Space Agency astronaut Joshua Kutryk grew up on a cattle farm in Alberta. He shares how agriculture shapes the way we live, work and eat, but also how satellite supports agriculture and how food production for space benefits people on Earth. (Credit: Canadian Space Agency)

I grew up on a cattle farm in Alberta, in the Canadian Prairies... 

…and so I have a great appreciation for farmers who work tirelessly to feed Canada and the world.

When I joined the Canadian Space Agency, I learned that many farmers use satellite data to help them keep watch over vast acreage and to monitor changes in their land.

It helps to manage resources more sustainably, such as water, pesticides and fertilizer. 

This has an impact on our economy, but also on the quality of food that’s on our plates.

Knowing where your food comes from is really important.

You have a greater appreciation for your food, and you can make healthier decisions.  

In space, eating healthy foods is essential. It keeps your body strong to withstand the harsh environment.

And as we explore further, onward to the Moon and one day to Mars, astronauts will need to be more self-sufficient.

Growing food in extreme environments like outer space is a challenge that many of Canada's remote and northern communities also face.

That is why the Canadian Space Agency is exploring ways of using space technology to help improve the accessibility of fresh food across the country, including in the North.

Today, I encourage you to take time to think about the thousands of people contributing to Canada’s food industry – from farms to your plate and from space to your spoon.

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