Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, announced that Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Colonel Joshua Kutryk has been assigned to NASA's SpaceX Crew-13, an International Space Station mission.
This will be Joshua's first space mission, making him the fourth CSA astronaut to take part in a long-duration mission aboard the Space Station and the first one to fly under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. He will launch no earlier than mid-September 2026 from Florida, along with his crewmates, NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov.
During his mission, Joshua will conduct several international and Canadian science experiments, many of which focus on health-related research, as well as Station maintenance and operations activities. As humans prepare to set foot on the surface of the Moon, it is essential to continue to deepen our understanding of what is required to allow humanity to live, learn and work in the harsh environment of space. The Station is a unique testbed for these valuable experiments.
Our participation in the International Space Station showcases the world‑leading expertise of Canadian companies in key areas such as space robotics and vision systems. This expertise has translated into commercial spin-offs such as precision surgical robotic tools for neurosurgery, breast cancer detection, and telesurgery. Access to the orbiting laboratory has also allowed Canadian scientists to produce findings that can help people suffering from balance problems, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disorders, and Type 2 diabetes.
