RCGS lowers its flag at 50 Sussex Drive in Ottawa to honour Garneau’s contribution to Canada
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, June 5, 2025 — The Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Honourable Marc Garneau, Canada’s first astronaut to fly in space, and a champion of education, science and public service.
In 2014, Garneau was awarded the Society’s Gold Medal—its highest honour—for his extraordinary contributions to exploration and discovery. He was recognized alongside eight former and current Canadian astronauts and the Canadian Space Agency for their collective achievements in pushing the boundaries of geography and exploration, both nationally and internationally.
Garneau made history in 1984 as the first Canadian to fly in space as part of a NASA mission. Throughout his career—as a naval officer, astronaut, and Member of Parliament he remained a passionate advocate for science education and public outreach, inspiring generations of young Canadians to aim higher and dream of lives dedicated to discovery and exploration.
“Marc Garneau was Canada’s first astronaut to fly in space, and he dedicated his life to science, exploration, education, and public service,” said John Geiger, CEO of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. “He helped Canadians better understand their place in the world and encouraged young people to see themselves as explorers in their own right. His legacy is one of vision, courage, and public service to Canada.”
In tribute, the Royal Canadian Geographical Society will lower its flag at its headquarters at 50 Sussex Drive in Ottawa—Canada’s Centre for Geography and Exploration. The symbolic gesture honours Garneau’s enduring legacy and his lifelong commitment to exploration and knowledge.
The Society extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, his colleagues at the Canadian Space Agency, the House of Commons, and all those across the country who are mourning the loss of an exemplary Canadian.
Media Contact:
Rosemary Thompson
Vice-President
[email protected] | 613-240-6739
About the RCGS:
The Royal Canadian Geographical Society is one of Canada’s largest charitable educational organizations, publishing Canadian Geographic the country’s #1 paid magazine with 4.4 million readers each month. Founded in 1929, the RCGS has built one of the largest educational networks in the country comprising 28,000 educators in every province or territory. The RCGS is dedicated to making Canada better known to Canadians and to the world through broad based education about both human and physical geography.
