OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 10/15/09 -- Canadian Space Agency (CSA) Astronaut Dr. Robert Thirsk will launch National Science and Technology Week with a message to the delegates attending the launch event at the Canada Science and Technology Museum (CSTM).

As the launch event of the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW), the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) and CSTM celebrate 2009: International Year of Astronomy with a multidisciplinary symposium, "The Universe and Our Place in It", that will explore the universe in an open and interactive forum featuring a keynote address by CSA Astronaut Chris Hadfield, and some of Canada's world leaders in astronomical research.

"This gathering at the Museum offers significant opportunities to stimulate and support studies of the important contributions Canadians have made and continue to make in astronomy, contributions that enrich our understanding of the universe," says Denise Amyot, President and CEO of the Canada Science and Technology Museum Corporation. "It helps us understand the rich cultural connections amongst science, technology, and society."

The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for Science and Technology will share a message on the role of NSTW to the participants before introducing Dr. Robert Thirsk, National Science Champion for NSTW, who will greet symposium participants with a special recorded message from the International Space Station on behalf of NSTW co-hosts Natural Resources Canada and the Canadian Space Agency.

Two award-winning Canadian graduate students will speak about their research, as the RSC continues to integrate students into its core programming. "The RSC Symposium is a unique event that links Canada's intellectual leadership with Canadian youth," says RSC Director Darren Gilmour. "Delegates to the symposium will include young women from high schools throughout Canada."

All members of the general public are invited to participate.

RSC: The Academies of Arts, Humanities and Sciences of Canada

RSC is the senior national body of distinguished Canadian scientists and scholars. Its primary objective is to promote learning and research in the arts and sciences. The Society consists of approximately 2000 Fellows: men and women from across the country who are selected by their peers for outstanding contributions to the natural and social sciences and in the humanities.

Canada Science and Technology Museum (CSTM)

Sharing Canada's rich collections of objects related to transportation, natural resources, communications, space, energy, manufacturing and industry, the Canada Science and Technology Museum helps Canadians explore the rich connections among science, technology, and culture. Visit www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca or call 613-991-3044.

National Science and Technology Week (NSTW)

Canada's National Science and Technology Week is a celebration of science and technology by over 100 organizations, ranging from government, to industry, educators and science outreach, along with thousands of Canadians in regions across the country. Taking place from October 16th to 25th, this year marks more than 18 years of science festivities. We are honoured to have a Canadian Space Agency Astronaut, Dr. Robert Thirsk, as our National Science Champion. Activities focus on the theme "Exploration and Discovery: Past, Present and Future". NSTW supports the government's S&T Strategy commitment to "foster an S&T culture in Canada", by communicating the impact and benefits of Canada's science and technology to the public, youth, families, and decision makers. It encourages youth to pursue science and technology studies and assists in building support for public investment in science and technology. Please visit www.science.gc.ca/nstw for more information and to view Dr. Thirsk's message.

Canadian Space Agency (CSA)

Established in 1989, the CSA coordinates all civil space-related policies and programs on behalf of the Government of Canada. The CSA 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 humanity. www.asc-csa.gc.ca

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) seeks to enhance the responsible development and use of Canada's natural resources and the competitiveness of Canada's natural resources products. We are an established leader in science and technology in the fields of energy, forests, and minerals and metals and use our expertise in earth sciences to build and maintain an up-to-date knowledge base of our landmass. As the lead agency for National Science and Technology Week, NRCan co-hosts the 2009 Week with the Canadian Space Agency and the support of www.science.gc.ca/.