Canadian Space Agency astronaut Colonel Joshua Kutryk has begun his first space mission, marking a major milestone for Canada’s role in international space exploration and scientific research.

Kutryk launched aboard the SpaceX Crew-13 mission on October 1 and is expected to spend approximately six months aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

The Canadian astronaut is joining an international crew working on scientific experiments, technology demonstrations and research conducted in the microgravity environment of the space station.

During the mission, Kutryk is expected to contribute to research that can help advance knowledge and technologies for future space exploration. Activities aboard the ISS also support scientific work with potential applications on Earth.

The mission highlights Canada’s continuing participation in international space programs and its contribution to space robotics, science, engineering and advanced technology.

The Canadian Space Agency says Kutryk’s mission is part of Canada’s broader commitment to space exploration and the development of technologies and expertise that support the country’s future space activities.

Kutryk’s approximately six-month stay is expected to provide Canadian researchers and the wider space sector with another opportunity to participate in international orbital research.