Canada should take bigger risks as it invests in space, professor says

Toronto-born astrophysicist Sara Seager urged Canada to 'think big' and be willing to take risks in space investment. The country's space sector contributed $3.4 billion to GDP in 2024, and the federal government has invested billions while partnering with international programs.

Canadians and space-sector advocates are discussing how the country invests in space and the role of homegrown astronauts and businesses in shaping future efforts. The sector contributed $3.4 billion to Canada's gross domestic product in 2024, and the federal government has invested billions while partnering with NASA and European programs. Toronto-born astrophysicist Sara Seager said Canada should 'think big,' make opportunities and be willing to take risks when pursuing space projects. Seager plans to return to the University of Toronto in September to work at the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics and to help build momentum in that shift. Key points: - The space sector contributed $3.4 billion to Canada's GDP in 2024, per government figures. - The federal government has invested billions across the space sector and is partnered with NASA and European efforts. - Sara Seager, a Toronto-born MIT planetary scientist, urged Canada to "think big," take risks and pursue ambitious ideas in space activity. - Seager will return to the University of Toronto in September to work with the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics. - Kepler Communications is cited as an example of a Canadian company working on improved space communications. - The article notes Jeremy Hansen recently traveled beyond low Earth orbit, and includes an anecdote about a family purchasing commercial flight seats in 2014. Summary: The piece connects the sector's economic footprint and recent high-profile achievements with arguments for greater willingness to pursue bold space projects. Sources say such efforts can inspire more Canadians to enter STEM fields and support homegrown companies. Seager's planned return to the University of Toronto in September is presented as a next step in building that momentum.