MacLean "is a modern hero and is very highly respected among academic, industrial and international partners," said Prentice.

"His appointment as president is evidence of the government's commitment to leverage Canada's space science and technology to position Canada as a leading space faring nation."

MacLean was one of Canada's first six astronauts in December 1983, and a key contributor on Canadarm projects -- robotic arms fixed to US space shuttles to manipulate cargo and for maintenance tasks in space.

He was also chief science advisor for the International Space Station, director general of the Canadian Astronaut Program, and held several positions with NASA serving onboard both its Columbia and Atlantis space shuttles.

And he is the second Canadian to have walked in space.

Most recently, MacLean was chief astronaut for the Canadian Space Agency. He replaces Guy Bujold as its president.

Established in 1989, the Canadian Space Agency coordinates all civil, space-related policies and programs on behalf of the government of Canada.

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