First Canadian Private Space Explorer Set to Launch on Humanitarian Mission to the International Space Station (Forwarded)

Canadian Space Agency
Longueuil, Quebec

June 4, 2009

First Canadian Private Space Explorer Set to Launch on Humanitarian Mission
to the International Space Station

Guy Lalibert founder of Cirque du Soleil and the ONE DROP Foundation, will
be the first Canadian private space explorer to visit the International
Space Station. The announcement was made at the Canadian Space Agency
headquarters, with Lalibertspeaking from Moscow where he has begun his
training.

The Canadian Space Agency salutes Guy Laliberts initiative as Canada's first
private space explorer. The Agency will advise Lalibertand he will meet with
Canadian Astronaut Robert Thirsk while at the International Space Station.
"Canada's leadership role in space exploration is at the forefront of our
mandate," said Dr. Steve MacLean. "This humanitarian mission, imagined by a
leading entrepreneur and artist, demonstrates the talent, imagination and
dedication that Canadians are recognized for worldwide."

This is a year of celebration for Canadian space exploration. Nearly 25
years after the first Canadian astronaut flew into space, Canadian veteran
astronauts Robert Thirsk has just begun a six-month stay on the Station and
Julie Payette is set to launch on an assembly mission on June 13th. In May,
the Canadian Space Agency selected two Canadians to join its astronaut
corps.

During his 12-day stay at the International Space Station, Lalibertwill
share information about water issues in the world and raise awareness for
ONE DROP Foundation initiatives that promote Water for all, all for water.
"With his unique artistry and imagination, Guy Lalibertwill bring the
experience of space exploration to new audiences around the world and
inspire humanity to view space as a vantage point to monitor and protect our
planet," said Dr. MacLean. Julie Payette will also be taking the ONE DROP
foundation's emblem with her to space as part of her official flight kit, to
highlight the importance of protecting this precious resource.

- 30 -

For more information, please contact:

Media Relations
Canadian Space Agency
Telephone: 450-926-4370
www.asc-csa.gc.ca