Minister Clement Celebrates the 15th Anniversary of the Canadian RADARSAT-1 Satellite

Ottawa, November 4, 2010 — The launch of the Canadian RADARSAT-1 satellite into orbit on November 4, 1995, marked the beginning of the RADARSAT Program, which has continued to deliver outstanding service to Canada and the world for 15 years and counting. To mark this anniversary, the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency, today issued the following statement:

"I am pleased to highlight today this remarkable milestone of RADARSAT-1, a cornerstone of the Canadian Space Program. RADARSAT Program has already far exceeded expectations and is recognized around the world for its consistent and reliable performance, delivering critical data to clients in Canada and more than 60 countries. Over the past 15 years, RADARSAT-1 images have been crucial to helping us manage the sustainable development of our resources, enhance safe navigation in our icy waters and learn more about our impact on our planet."

"Originally designed with a five-year life expectancy, RADARSAT-1 is still mapping the world, capturing images day and night through all weather conditions. From design and construction to deployment and operation, the success of the RADARSAT Program, 15 years later, is a tribute to the ingenuity and dedication of the Canadian engineers and scientists who work together in the pursuit of excellence."

"The fact that RADARSAT-1 continues to work is a testament to the endurance of Canadian earth-observation technology. And its legacy carries on with the launch in 2007 of RADARSAT-2, a new-generation satellite with enhanced capability, and the current development of the RADARSAT Constellation Mission, the next generation of advanced radar remote-sensing satellites, being carried out for the Canadian Space Agency."

"Our government is committed to the space sector because it is the kind of R&D- and innovation-intensive industry that is so important to our economic growth. Budget 2010 provided an additional $397 million to the Canadian Space Agency to continue its cutting-edge programs, including the Constellation Mission. The RADARSAT Program is a prime example of Canada's strengths in science and technology, and we are pleased to support the next steps of this world-renowned mission."

For further information (media only), please contact:

Lynn Meahan
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502