A Canadian Forces Naval Officer, he was chosen as a team member of the October 1984 mission of the space shuttle Challenger, thus becoming the first Canadian astronaut to participate in the conquest of space.
Companion of the Order of Canada
Awarded on: 2003-05-08
Invested on: 2003-12-12
A pioneer in the Canadian Space Program, Marc Garneau is a role model for young people, and his accomplishments have done our nation proud. A veteran of three flights aboard the space shuttles Challenger and Endeavour, he has logged nearly 700 hours in space. A recipient of the NASA Exceptional Service Medal in 1997, he has always demonstrated the highest degree of professionalism. The former Deputy Director of the Canadian Astronaut Program is now President of the Canadian Space Agency. Despite his many responsibilities, he has always generously donated his time to raising awareness of science and technology among students across the country. This is a promotion within the Order.