NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine Hopes Canada Will Sustain NASA In A Future Moon Mission

NASA, which concluded a two-day trip to Ottawa on Wednesday, left the federal capital empty-handed. The US space agency has, however, made a strong plea in favor of Canada's participation in a future Moon mission. At a time when pressure is increasing, the Trudeau is slow to make a commitment.

The presence this week in Ottawa of NASA is no coincidence. If Jim Bridenstine's tone and words are polite, Washington's impatience is real. Appointed by Donald Trump as head of the agency, Mr. Bridenstine is also its senior space science advisor. For Donald Trump, the Lunar Gateway project is a priority. Last year, the President of the United States ordered NASA to launch a human-crewed mission to the Moon.

"I am here to ask for Canada's support," Jim Bridenstine repeated several times during his recent trip to Ottawa. "Canada has been an essential ally of the United States in space exploration. And we want to ensure that this partnership remains strong, "he added.

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine Hopes Canada Will Sustain NASA In A Future Moon Mission

The NASA leader is apparently on mission recognition, and this is the future of US-Canada alliance in space exploration missions.

Last summer, Canada turned back on NASA. Due to a lack of funding, the Canadian Space Agency has abandoned its participation in a critical project, the WFIRST telescope. The Canadian Space Agency has an important role in this mission.

Since then, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Navdeep Bains, has made a commitment to NASA for the Lunar Gateway project.

"There are many options. At this stage, everything remains on the table, Jim Bridenstine, the minister said after his meeting with the head of the US space agency.

Vadim is a passionate writer on various topics, especially on technology, and science. Therefore, for Great Ledger Lakes, Vadim will cover health and Sci & Tech news.