40 years ago the world's attention was focused heavenward

Forty years ago this week people all over the world had their eyes fixed on the heavens.

We were all anticipating a watershed moment that became "a small step for man and one giant leap for mankind."

Of course, we're talking about the Apollo 11 mission and the moon landing.

Since that time, space travel has become more common, but it still captures our imagination.

It also has practical applications.

A recent AP story quotes President Barack Obama saying, "The Apollo program itself produced technologies that have improved kidney dialysis and water purification systems; sensors to test for hazardous gases; energy-saving building materials; and fire-resistant fabrics used by firefighters and soldiers. And, more broadly, the enormous investment of that era -- in science and technology, in education and research funding -- produced a great outpouring of curiosity and creativity, the benefits of which have been incalculable."

One of the great aspects of the space program today is its international scope.

At the time of Apollo 11 there was a rivalry with the Soviet Union. Today, we join hands in space and share our knowlege. It's the way it should be.

Canada is part of this international effort and we have been for some time.

Fifty years ago, the Canadian government announced to the world its plan to be the third country to launch its own satellite into space. Recently, reporter Michael Purvis profiled Sault resident Jack Dacey, 79, who was working at the Defence Research Telecommunications Establishment in Ottawa at the time, testing electronic equipment for the military, and developing some of the first solar cells.

Of course, the city is also home to Roberta Bondar.