Canada is the second largest country in world, and 40 percent of it is Arctic. The Arctic is central to our history, culture, and self-identity. In 1962, Canada became the third country in Space, with a satellite for studying the ionosphere. A decade later, Canada became the first country to launch a civilian communications satellite, enabling the CBC to broadcast from sea to sea to sea. The Arctic and Space are inextricably linked. In addition to being central to Arctic communications, satellites are essential tools for Arctic navigation, security, search and rescue, ice and weather forecasting, fisheries, prospecting and science. In his final McLean Lecture, Michael Byers will advance a vision of Canada as a leading Arctic and Space nation. It is a vision that promotes international cooperation, social and economic development, environmental protection—and national pride.
