Industry Canada
Ottawa, Canada

September 2, 2008

Astronaut Steve MacLean Appointed President of the Canadian Space Agency

CAMBRIDGE, Ontario -- The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry and
Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) today appointed Dr.
Steve MacLean as President of the CSA.

"Dr. MacLean is a modern hero and is very highly respected among academic,
industrial and international partners," said Minister Prentice. "His
appointment as President is evidence of the government's commitment to
leverage Canada's space science and technology to position Canada as a
leading space faring nation."

Dr. MacLean was selected as one of the first six Canadian astronauts in
December 1983. He was a key contributor on both the Canadarm and the
Canadarm2 projects. He has held other positions including Chief Science
Advisor for the International Space Station, Director General of the
Canadian Astronaut Program, as well as positions with NASA.

Dr. MacLean has served onboard both the space shuttles Columbia and Atlantis
and has the distinction of being the first Canadian to have operated the
Canadarm2. He is the second Canadian to have walked in space. Most recently,
Dr. MacLean was Chief Astronaut for the Canadian Space Agency. Dr. MacLean
takes the helm of the CSA from Guy Bujold.

"I wish to thank Guy Bujold, who has kindly served as President since last
January. His leadership during this time of transition has been very
valuable to the CSA," said Minister Prentice.

Dr. MacLean brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the CSA's current
process of revitalization. Building on its successes in technology and
innovation, Dr. MacLean will move the CSA forward on a long-term space plan,
as Canada prepares to enter a new era of space exploration and development.

Established in 1989, the CSA coordinates all civil, space-related policies
and programs on behalf of the Government of Canada. The Agency directs its
resources and activities through four key thrusts: earth observation, space
science and exploration, satellite communications, and space awareness and
learning. By leveraging international cooperation, the CSA generates
world-class scientific research and industrial development for the benefit
of Canadians.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Bill Rodgers
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Jim Prentice
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
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