Canada's Contributions to Space Research - 1965-1970

First Person to Walk in Space

Mar 18, 1965

During the mission Voskhod 2, Alexei Leonoy performed a 24 minute extra vehicular activity, thus becoming the first person (human) to walk in space.

First Commercial Communication Satellite

Apr 6, 1965

The launch of Intelsat 1 (Early Bird) was the first commercial satellite used by the COTC (Canadian Overseas Telecommunicationc Corporation for over the atlantic ocean communication.

Report for Creation of a National Space Agency

Feb 1, 1967

John Herbert sends a report to the federal government suggesting the creation of a national space agency. No specified day was mentioned just the month and year.

Spar Aerospace is Formed

Jan 1, 1968

Spar aerospace was formed out of Havilland Aircraft's Products and Advanced Research Division

White Paper on Satellite Communication

Mar 28, 1968

John Chaoman gives a white paper on satellite communication to the government called "A Domestic Communications System for Canada."

First Pictures of the Northern Lights

Jan 30, 1969

Launch of ISIS 1, was more sophiosticated than the Alouette spacecraft. It was designed to make a comprehensive study of the top section of the ionosphere, and to produce the first picture of the northern lights (aurora borealis). The launch was on March 31 1971.

First Man to Set Foot on the Moon

Jul 20, 1969

Neil A. Armstrong was the commander of mission Apolio 11, became the first man to set foot on the moon. 15 minutes later Buzz Aidrin climbs down to join his commander. Apollo 11 was launched July 16 and splashes into the Pacific ocean on July 24.