Science & Tech · Space · 7 hrs ago
Former NASA economist named head of Canadian Space Agency
Alexander MacDonald was named president of the Canadian Space Agency in an announcement made in Ottawa by Industry Minister Mélanie Joly.
He previously served as NASA’s first chief economist and helped develop the “Moon to Mars” strategy, which includes the Artemis missions.
That strategy has involved Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who travelled around the moon earlier this year on Artemis II.
MacDonald replaces outgoing president Lisa Campbell, who had held the job since 2020.
His appointment comes as Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government seeks to expand Canada’s space capabilities.
The government has also identified space-based surveillance as a defence priority and is pursuing more space co-operation with European countries.
No further steps in MacDonald’s new role were specified.
Alexander MacDonald was named president of the Canadian Space Agency.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly announced the appointment in Ottawa during a tribute event for Marc Garneau.
MacDonald was NASA’s first chief economist and helped establish its “Moon to Mars” strategy.
He replaces Lisa Campbell, who had held the position since 2020.
The appointment comes as the federal government seeks to expand Canada’s space capabilities.
- Who
- Alexander MacDonald, NASA’s first chief economist, was named president of the Canadian Space Agency.
- What
- He was appointed to lead the agency, replacing Lisa Campbell.
- When
- He was named late Wednesday evening, according to CBC. The article also refers to a Thursday event.
- Where
- Ottawa.
- Why
- The sources do not state a specific reason for his appointment. The appointment comes as the government seeks to expand Canada’s space capabilities.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Lisa Campbell began serving as president of the Canadian Space Agency.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly appointed astronaut Jeremy Hansen as a special adviser on developing a new space strategy.
Alexander MacDonald was named the Canadian Space Agency’s new president.
The federal government released a defence industrial strategy listing space-based surveillance platforms as a priority.
- New president
- Alexander MacDonald
- Agency
- Canadian Space Agency
- Previous president
- Lisa Campbell, in the role since 2020
- Former NASA position
- First chief economist
- Strategy
- Helped establish NASA’s “Moon to Mars” strategy
- Announcement location
- Ottawa
What people are saying
As incredible as this year has been, I am even more excited about what the future holds for Canadians in space.
Space has never been more important for the strength and future of Canada, and never before has the world looked to Canada more for global leadership in the space domain.