May 3 2013
Today, the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, unveiled the permanent Canadarm display at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Chris Hadfield assisted in the inauguration of the exhibit from orbit as Commander of the International Space Station-a distinguished role made possible due in part to the contributions of the iconic Canadarm.
"This exhibit commemorates an important part of our history in space. The Canadarm is a symbol of our country's ingenuity and expertise in space robotics. It has positioned Canada as a leader in space," said Minister Moore. "Our Government has always been a strong supporter of Canada's space sector and we remain committed to providing our companies with real opportunities to grow, compete and create high-quality jobs for Canadians."
After travelling 624 million kilometres and logging a total of 944 workdays in space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the Canadarm has returned home. In close collaboration with the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, the CSA created an interactive exhibit displaying the Canadarm, which allows visitors to navigate through the history of the robotic arm, including: its greatest achievements and how its legacy continues to live on today in medical robots used in neurological and pediatric surgery.
"We invite Canadians to see space history for themselves, and tell their children and grandchildren how proud they were to see Canada on the forefront of global innovation," said Gilles Leclerc, Acting President of the CSA.
"Our Government is proud that the Canadarm, a national icon, is going to be housed within one of our great national museums," said Minister Moore. "We believe strongly in our national museums, and we recognize the tremendous value they hold for all Canadians as guardians of our heritage."
In 2011, the Canadarm wrapped up 30 years of operations supporting the U.S. Space Shuttle Program. Working in close collaboration with NASA, the CSA negotiated the return of Endeavour's Canadarm. Upon its return, the 15-metre arm was sent first to MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) in Brampton, for a thorough evaluation and preparation for its public display.
Source: http://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/