Before becoming an astronaut, you must meet a number of intense physical and mental health standards, understandably. Vision is no exception. The Canadian Space Agency is looking for two prime candidates to take part in the next generation of space explorers.
We are proud to say that the Canadian Space Agency chose North Toronto Eye Care to assist in the medical evaluations of our CSA astronaut candidates!
The Visit
On April 25th and 26th, 2017, our North office at 2065 Finch Avenue West had the honor of examining the eyes of 16 CSA astronaut candidates for the 2016-2017 Astronaut Recruitment Campaign.
The candidates were evaluated by our very own Dr. Patricia Hinton! Dr. Hinton performed an extensive eye examination with several state-of-the-art diagnostic tests that are imperative in the selection process for the Astronaut Recruitment Campaign.
What Is Required of Astronauts?
Vision is crucial to many aspects of our lives. This is especially true when you are seeking such a prestigious job as space exploration! All Canadian astronauts have a background in science or technology, have excellent health and offer a wide range of outstanding qualities and skills that make them applicable for the position.
Astronauts are notoriously required to be in tip-top shape. Depending on the job the astronaut will be doing, distance vision acuity must be at 20/100 or better uncorrected, but correctable to 20/20 in each eye.
What Does It Mean to Be a Canadian Astronaut?
Astronauts are modern–day explorers with the essential responsibility of traveling beyond Earth to advance scientific research and technology development. Canadian astronauts support space missions and prepare for future missions with extensive, detailed training.
Canadian astronauts work primarily out of NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. When they are home in Canada, they participate in various activities that encourage other young Canadians to pursue their STEM field educations (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.)
When Will the New Canadian Astronauts Be Announced?
In the summer of 2017, the two new astronauts of the CSA will be selected and announced! Be sure to keep an eye out for the names of Canada’s new space explorers! By August 2017, the new astronauts will relocate to Houston, Texas and begin their comprehensive training.
North Toronto Eye Care is proud to have been of service to the Canadian Space Agency.