Tomatosphere sponsors
Tomatosphere involves the collaborative interaction of a number of corporate, educational and government organizations including:
In addition to the promotion of an awareness of space science and technology and their associated careers, the Canadian Space Agency has a mandate to increase student interest in space science, the knowledge of the principles and their applications to space and the provision of biological life support systems for long term space travel. Many Canadians have made contributions to science and technology; CSA helps to promote these individuals and their accomplishments.
The Environmental Biology Department of the University of Guelph has played a key role in the development of the project, fostering cooperation among the sponsor partners to support science and technology in the manned exploration of space, particularly the provision of biological life support and closed environment systems. The Tomatosphere Project models the role of the university in creating, transmitting and applying knowledge to improve the social, cultural and economic quality of life of people in Canada and around the world.
Stokes Seeds is a national brand of garden seed. Growing plants from seed is a wondrous miracle of nature that we feel is important to share with children of all ages. Using seed as a platform to instruct and teach students about writing, observation, science and mathematics is a great opportunity for students and teachers. Stokes Seeds is proud to be part of this excellent learning opportunity.
Contact information
Phone: 1-800-396-9238
Fax: 1-888-834-3334
Website: www.stokesseeds.com
OCE Inc, has been a partner in the Tomatosphere project since its inception in 2000. As a leader in research and innovation that drives prosperity in Ontario, OCE is committed to enabling programs that reach Ontario youth to inspire them towards careers in science and technology. The Tomatosphere Project's ability to engage youth, teach scientific methodology and concepts, while exciting young people about science is firmly aligned with OCE's mandate to work with Ontario academe, industry and government to develop and foster the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs for Ontario.
The Heinz association with Tomatosphere ranges from the provision of the seeds (Heinzseeds) to assistance with the promotion of the project. Heinz also plays an important role in the protection of the environment through the use of efficient energy sources and raw materials and effective packaging in its food processing; applications from the space program are important for this sponsor. Heinz also promotes career awareness in areas such as food science and nutrition.
Contact information
Joan Patterson
H. J. Heinz Company
Communications & Corporate Affairs Manager
90 Sheppard Avenue East, Suite 400
North York, Ontario M2N 7K5 Canada
Phone: 416-226-7587 (direct line)
Website: www.heinzitUp.com
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is concerned with the preparation of the workforce of tomorrow, to prepare the people who will be working in 2050 for innovations in the workforce by motivating students to continue their studies with science and mathematics. AAFC also has a keen interest in the new curriculum modules emphasizing aspects of human food supply. The promotion of practical research methodologies and innovative solutions to food production issues in association with closed environments and space exploration will put AAFC in the forefront of specific elements of Canada's space program.
The collaboration of these groups resulted in an eminently successful first venture into the project in 2001-2002. Based on this success, the partners have decided to extend the program and offer it on an annual basis to schools throughout Canada. It has been operating on an annual basis since 2002 and has expanded its mandate with new curriculum units in 2008 and exciting opportunities associated with Dr. Robert Thirk's stay on the International Space Station scheduled for May - November, 2009.
Contact the project manager
Phone: 905-627-3685
Contact by email
Tomatosphere is sponsored by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Canadian Space Agency, Heinz Canada Ltd, HeinzSeed, Ontario Centres of Excellence, Stokes Seeds and the University of Guelph.
