LONGUEUIL, QC, Oct. 1, 2026 /CNW/ -- Today, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Colonel Joshua Kutryk has embarked on his first space mission, a journey that will take him to the International Space Station (the Station) for approximately six months. Joining him on the SpaceX Crew-13 mission are NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney and Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov. Together, they lifted off aboard a Dragon crew spacecraft at 11:10 am ET, on a Falcon 9 rocket from Florida.
During his mission, Joshua will contribute to several Canadian and international science experiments, mostly focused on health research. He will test a new physical training protocol for astronauts and take part in Canadian experiments related to mental health, bone density, cardiorespiratory health, perception of orientation, anemia and ocular rigidity. He will also perform technology demonstrations that will help advance space exploration and improve life on Earth.
Joshua is expected to carry out regular maintenance and repair tasks on the Station, as well as support a broad range of operations, including a vast array of robotics activities and spacewalks. Throughout the mission, Joshua will share his experience with Canadians from orbit, helping bring the excitement of space exploration to classrooms and communities across the country, while inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and explorers.
Joshua's mission to the Station follows Canada's historic participation in the Artemis II mission, which carried humans farther from Earth than ever before, including the first Canadian to take part in a lunar mission. Canada's contributions to the Station program have delivered far-reaching economic, industrial, scientific and societal benefits to Canadians. The program has supported hundreds of high-quality jobs, fostered the development of a highly skilled workforce, inspired students to pursue careers in science and technology, and accelerated innovation across sectors. Canada's expertise in space exploration and robotics and our ingenuity has strengthened Canada's position as a global leader. Canadians nationwide are advancing cutting-edge research and technologies that help address the challenges of long-duration human spaceflight, while delivering tangible benefits that enhance health, productivity, and quality of life on Earth.
Quotes
"Canada is a global leader in space science, technology, and innovation. Colonel Joshua Kutryk's mission to the International Space Station will showcase Canadian expertise on the world stage, inspire the next generation of innovators, and strengthen a sector that is strategic to our economy and national interests. As we look to the future of deep space exploration, the Station is an important platform for research and discovery, advancing cutting-edge technologies, creating new opportunities for Canadians, and preparing for the next generation of missions that will push the boundaries of human knowledge."
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
"My love of flight and interest in science has offered me incredible opportunities through my career and has brought me to where I am now. I am deeply humbled. This is an exciting time in space history. There are so many new opportunities. Now is the perfect time to dream big, study hard and shoot for the stars, just like I did. It is an honour to represent Canada in space and to share my journey with everyone back home."
- Joshua Kutryk, Canadian Space Agency astronaut
Quick facts
- This is the CSA's fourth long-duration mission to the International Space Station, and the first CSA astronaut mission as part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program.
- With this mission, Canada will have flown 11 astronauts on 19 space missions.
- The International Space Station is a key steppingstone for future missions to the Moon and beyond, helping researchers understand what is required for humans to safely live and work in the harsh environment of space.
- Our participation in the International Space Station showcases the world‑leading expertise of Canadian companies in key areas such as space robotics and vision systems. This expertise has translated into commercial spin-offs such as precision robotic tools for neurosurgery, breast cancer detection, and telesurgery.
- Access to this unique orbiting laboratory has allowed Canadian scientists to study the effects of microgravity on the human body and to produce findings that can help people suffering from balance problems, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disorders, and Type 2 diabetes.
- A space mission is a powerful tool to increase interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), strengthen scientific literacy, and inspire young people to pursue careers in STEM. These efforts also support broader societal objectives, including economic growth, inclusion, sustainability, and preparedness for emerging technological challenges.
- In Canada, over the last eight years alone, activities related to the International Space Station have supported employment and contract opportunities for almost 1,800 highly qualified personnel, enabled 393 students to contribute to space-related research and technology projects, and involved 52 organizations. These figures represent only a portion of the International Space Station program's lifetime impact in Canada.
Associated links
Website: www.asc-csa.gc.ca
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SOURCE Canadian Space Agency
Contact information: Canadian Space Agency, Media Relations Office, Telephone: 450-926-4370, Email: [email protected]
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