Longueuil, Quebec – January 30, 2004 – A year ago, on the last phase of its return to Earth, the valiant crew of the space shuttle Columbia perished over the sky of Texas. Today, Marc Garneau, President of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), Julie Payette, Chris Hadfield and Dave Williams, CSA astronauts, paid homage to their colleagues and friends, the crew of mission STS-107.
“Launched into space to carry out science experiments, as astronauts, the crew of STS-107 knew and accepted the risks involved in space flight. Their life-long contribution to science and to humanity is their legacy”, said Marc Garneau. “I had the pleasure of knowing each member of the crew. They were good people, outstanding professionals and our thoughts today are with them, their families and colleagues.”
“A year ago, a light went off in the Texas sky. The whole world witnessed this tragedy that had a major impact on us all. The Columbia astronauts have left us with a heritage of hope. Space exploration must go on. The light from Columbia will remain in our hearts forever”, said Julie Payette.
“The brave explorers aboard Columbia came from Earth, in peace, for all of us. They were my friends… our friends. Every day I try and honor their sacrifice in how I live my life”, said Chris Hadfield.
“A year ago, seven close friends, among which three were former classmates, lost their lives on Columbia. The sense of loss is profound, yet the dream of human exploration is still alive as we look forward to a safe return to the shuttle flights to the International Space Station and beyond, to the Moon and Mars”, said Dave Williams.
On this day, the Canadian Space Agency remembers these passionate and dedicated men and women and their devotion to space exploration.