RADARSAT-2 , successfully launched

RADARSAT-2 lit up the night sky as it was launched successfully into space aboard a Soyuz rocket at 19:17 local time from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

Canada's next-generation commercial radar satellite offers powerful technical advancements that will enhance marine surveillance, ice monitoring, disaster management, environmental monitoring, resource management and mapping in Canada and around the world.

Colin Carrie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), emphasized that this new satellite represents powerful state-of-the-art technology that will enhance Canada's ability to protect Canadian sovereignty in the Far North, in keeping with the Arctic strategy outlined in the Speech from the Throne.

"This satellite will help us vigorously protect our Arctic sovereignty as international interest in the region increases," said Colin Carrie. "It will also ensure the continuity of data services for government departments and a growing number of commercial clients in more than 60 countries worldwide."

RADARSAT-2 is the product of a unique public-private sector partnership. This partnership is leveraging Canada's renowned leadership in the development, operation and marketing of advanced and highly specialized remote-sensing technologies and applications.

About the Canadian Space Agency

Established in 1989, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) coordinates all civil, space-related policies and programs on behalf of the Government of Canada. 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.

For more information on the Radarsat-2 mission: www.space.gc.ca/asc/eng/satellites/radarsat2/default.asp