Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk is set to embark on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) for approximately six months. Born in Fort Saskatchewan, Alta., Kutryk is a seasoned engineer, fighter pilot, and test pilot with over 4,000 flight hours across 40 different aircraft models.
Initially selected by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) in 2017, Kutryk was slated to launch on Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner. Due to setbacks, the mission transitioned to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, postponing the launch from Sept. 12 to Oct. 1. Kutryk, confident in the spacecraft’s readiness, eagerly awaits the journey.
Bringing various items from Canadian organizations and personal mementos, Kutryk emphasizes the significance of representing Canada in space. Among his possessions is an old pocket watch with sentimental value, symbolizing the evolving exploration of the world.
Anticipating the simple pleasure of gazing at Earth from space, Kutryk reflects on the unity demonstrated by international space missions. The Crew 13 launch will also introduce NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins, Luke Delaney, and Russian cosmonaut Sergey Teteriatnikov to their inaugural space voyage.
The crew will engage in diverse experiments, including Canadian contributions, during their ISS expedition. Kutryk emphasizes the mission’s role in showcasing global collaboration and the potential for a brighter future beyond the challenges faced on Earth.