Canada’s astronaut shortlist includes candidate with Saskatchewan roots

The shortlist of candidates for two vacancies in the Canadian Space Agency program includes one person with a connection to Saskatchewan.

Among the 72 potential astronauts is Royal Canadian Air Force pilot Jason Leuschen.

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Born in B.C., Leuschen’s family moved to a farm near Bruno, Sask., when he was three-years-old.

Leuschen went to the University of Saskatchewan where he received a degree in mechanical engineering.

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He then joined the Air Force to train as a helicopter pilot and is currently a student pilot.

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Leuschen said he was inspired to become an astronaut by Saskatchewan’s skies, the northern lights and watching meteor showers.

The competition field was narrowed from 3,772 applicants.

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