Canadian Astronaut Helps Launch UrtheCast
Tuesday, July 5th, 2011
UrtheCast officially launched on June 28, 2011 at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. It was a successful company launch that resulted in exceptionally positive and enthusiastic coverage and support for UrtheCast and its initiatives from all over the globe.
Hon. Lindsay Blackett, Alberta’s Minister of Culture and Community Spirit, kicked off our UrtheCast Launch by explaining how Alberta’s culture is being enhanced by our strides in advanced technology with initiatives like UrtheCast’s HD video cameras being mounted on the outside of the International Space Station. The video stream that will be shared with Users world-wide on the UrtheCast Web Platform—at no cost—will erase borders and allow people to connect culturally in fresh and exciting ways and experience Earth from entirely new perspectives.
Dr. Dave Williams—Canadian astronaut and physician—was our special guest and gave a jaw-dropping presentation of what it is like to work aboard, and outside of, the International Space Station. His slide presentation was nothing short of awe-inspiring in regards to the images he shared with us and his personal description of what it is like to view Earth from that perspective. It was a privilege to hear Dr. Williams talk about his favourite memories in space and give us examples of how UrtheCast will literally broaden our current horizons. His love of the Earth’s beauty and his concern for our environment and health is so genuine and everyone who attended left with a renewed respect for our planet.
“The Earth is a truly remarkable place . . . and a beautiful oasis in space—there’s nothing like it. We have been blessed with such an incredible opportunity to make sure we protect the Earth for future generations. What better way to do that than to help people on earth be able to experience the beauty of our planet first-hand by providing them with HD video?” Dr. Dave Williams, Canadian Astronaut and Physician.
The underlying message in the feedback we receive on UrtheCast is that people from all walks of life are excited to see this truly innovative technology have a positive impact on society.
UrtheCast is in full engineering and production mode for the two cameras. The UrtheCast Team is very excited about meeting important milestones and will continue to provide updates and information over the coming months.