Sept. 9, 2009

Michael Braukus
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1979


Canadian Space Agency
450-926-4370
www.asc-csa.gc.ca

RELEASE: 09-206

U.S. AND CANADA SIGN AGREEMENT ON CIVIL SPACE COOPERATION

WASHINGTON -- NASA Administrator Charles Bolden and Canadian Space
Agency President Steve MacLean signed a framework agreement Wednesday
for cooperative activities in the exploration and use of outer space
for peaceful purposes. Canadian Ambassador to the United States
Michael Wilson hosted the signing at the Canadian Embassy in
Washington.

"NASA is very proud of its long and outstanding relationship with
Canada, one that has been nurtured during the past four decades with
increasing collaboration in a wide range of space science and
exploration activities," NASA's Bolden said. "As NASA continues to
enhance the scientific observation of our planet and the solar
system, we are looking to Canada and our other international partners
to play key roles in our future exploration plans."

Commenting on the significance of the signing, MacLean said, "The
United States has been a critical partner for Canada ever since the
launch of the Alouette-1 satellite in 1962. From these early
beginnings, we have worked together to forge a space alliance that
has become a catalyst, driving generations of space expertise,
innovation, science, and technological excellence through our
participation in space projects that continue to serve the interests
of both our nations."

The framework agreement is an important step in an evolving process
toward a coordinated and comprehensive approach to exploration and
use of outer space. It sets forth general terms and conditions that
will be applied to future cooperative projects and facilitates
expanded cooperation between the U.S. and Canada on a range of
activities related to human spaceflight, exploration, space science
and Earth science.

For more information about NASA and agency programs, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov

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