"In 1983, NASA invited Canada to fly three payload specialists, in part because we had contributed the robotic arm that is used on the shuttle"

This quote by Marc Garneau is describing the 1983 invitation from NASA to Canada to fly three payload experts on the Space Shuttle. This invite was in part due to Canada's contribution of the robotic arm that was utilized on the shuttle. This robotic arm was a significant contribution to the Space Shuttle program, as it permitted astronauts to carry out jobs that would have been difficult without it. The robotic arm was used to deploy and obtain satellites, along with to carry out repair work and upkeep on the shuttle itself. Canada's contribution of the robotic arm was a significant factor in NASA's choice to invite Canada to fly payload specialists on the Space Shuttle. This invite was a significant turning point for Canada, as it marked the very first time that Canadian astronauts had the ability to fly in space. This invitation was a testament to Canada's dedication to space exploration and its desire to add to the improvement of space technology.