Allan Rock, Minister of Industry and
Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency announced today the
official name of the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator – "Dextre". This
Canadian advanced technology robot represents the power of innovation,
technology and engineering that brings our space operations to a new plane.
Dextre is the third and last component of the Mobile Servicing System,
Canada’s contribution to the International Space Station.
"I am particularly proud to present to you Dextre, an unparalleled robot
that embodies Canadian innovation and excellence in space technology," said
Allan Rock. "Canada has developed an expertise in space robotics that is
recognized beyond our borders and our world renowned industrial team is
continuing to drive Canadian innovation."
"MD Robotics and our sub-contractors are proud that their expertise,
innovation and dedication are helping Canada and our international partners
build the largest scientific and engineering space project ever undertaken,
the International Space Station," said Mag Iskander, Vice President and
General Manager, MD Robotics.
During the naming ceremony, Marc Garneau, President of the Canadian Space
Agency, acknowledged the outstanding collaboration and engineering
excellence of MD Robotics as well as Canadian companies who designed and
constructed the Mobile Servicing System. "Space was the inspiration for the
creation of Canadarm, Canadarm2, the Mobile Base and now, Dextre. This
Canadian robotic technology is helping astronauts perform highly complex
assembly and maintenance tasks in space while delivering benefits to
Canadians and all of humanity"
Scheduled for launch in 2005, Dextre is a highly advanced, relocatable
two-armed robot designed to be placed either on the end of Canadarm2, on the
Mobile Base, or on the Station to perform external maintenance on the
International Space Station.
About the CSA
Established in 1989 with its headquarters situated in Saint-Hubert, Quebec,
the Canadian Space Agency coordinates all aspects of the Canadian Space
Program. Through its Space Knowledge, Applications and Industry Development
business line, the CSA delivers services involving: Earth and the
Environment; Space Science; Human Presence in Space; Satellite
Communications; Space Technology; Space Qualification Services; Space
Awareness and Education. The Canadian Space Agency is at the forefront of
the development and application of space knowledge for the benefit of
Canadians and humanity.
For information
Monique Billette Selena
Beattie
Senior Media Relations Officer Office of Allan Rock
Canadian Space Agency Minister of Industry
Tel: (450) 926-4370 Tel: (613) 995-9001
Monique.billette@space.gc.ca
